PAD won't block entry to parliament: Chamlong

People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) leader Chamlong Srimuang affirmed that the anti-government group will not deny access to the parliament on Tuesday in an attempt to obstruct the government from amending Article 291 of the 2007 Constitution.

Regarding the idea to hold a meeting with different sides to end violence, Maj-Gen Chamlong insisted the PAD supporters had never resorted to violent means, and its activities have been under the constitution. However, he said the group is ready to hold talks with all sides

He said the PAD agrees with the army’s announcement that it will take action against people who made statements against the royal institution.

In the case of certain senators who have allegedly received money to approve the charter drafting assembly’s establishment, Maj-Gen Chamlong said this shows that the government is still from an old political system that lacks righteousness, and there is a need for new politics as the PAD has proposed to members of the public.

Touching on the planned gathering of the pro-government United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) at Rajamangala National Stadium on November 1, he said it was not easy to mobilise ten of thousands of people to the gathering as even transportation and food alone are not easy tasks.

The PAD would pay close attention if the UDD moves their supporters to confront its supporters at Government House, he added.

source bangkok post

PAD distributing VCDs, leaflets on Oct 7 riot

The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) gathered Monday morning at a shopping mall in the heart of Bangkok to distribute leaflets and video discs (VCDs) critical of the bloody police crackdown against demonstrators nearly two weeks ago, a PAD core leader said Sunday.

From the stage inside the Government House compound where the PAD has encamped since late August, protest core leader Sondhi Limthongkul reaffirmed on Sunday that the anti-government coalition's plan to gather at Central World, a major shopping mall near national police headquarters, to distribute VCDs and leaflets to passers-by regarding the police crackdown at Parliament on October 7.

The PAD said the VCDs and leaflets showed the police had used excessive force against the protesters.

Two people died and nearly 500 others were injured during the day-long clashes between the police and demonstrators.

Last Friday, the PAD marched through the Silom and Sathorn business districts, passing out their VCDs and leaflets to passers-by in Bangkok's primary business corridor.

Another PAD core leader Pibhob Dhongchai earlier reasserted that his group distrusted the government-appointed committee now probing on the causes of the October 7 incidents due to reports that the government tried to intervene and remove some of the 'straightforward' committee members.

Mr. Pibhob said the PAD trusted the findings of the National Human Rights Commission, a respected neutral body, which announced Friday that the government was responsible for having given the order to disperse, while the police were responsible for carrying out the action.

He said the group would rather entrust an independent investigative committee which could be set up by parliament and be comprised of members of the House of Representatives and senators, including the Opposition. (TNA)

source bangkok post

Triple tension

Anti- and pro-government groups appear to be on a collision course, with the possibility of violent clashes in Bangkok when the verdict in the Ratchadaphisek land case against Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife is handed down tomorrow.

A highly placed source at the Special Branch Police office said police received information that three different groups will mobilise their supporters in Bangkok over the next few days.

The groups are the anti-government People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), the pro-government United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) and a group of police supporters.

The PAD plans to hold a rally outside CentralWorld Plaza in Ratchaprasong today and distribute VCDs and documents about the government's crackdown on its supporters on Oct 7 and will then march to police headquarters.

The PAD also plans to gather at the Supreme Court tomorrow to hear the verdict in the Ratchadaphisek land case in which former prime minister Thaksin and his wife, Khunying Potjaman, are the defendants.

UDD supporters and several progovernment movements from the Northeast and the North also plan to gather at the Supreme Court tomorrow to hear the verdict, the source said.

A source at the Supreme Court said clashes between supporters and opponents of Mr Thaksin outside the court are a strong possibility unless measures are taken to control the crowds.

On Wednesday, a mass merit-making ceremony will be held at the Royal Plaza, organised by former deputy police chief Salang Bunnag.

Many retired and serving police officers are expected to take part in the ceremony.

Pol Gen Salang had earlier announced he would mobilise police and force the PAD's supporters out of the Government House grounds.

Suriyasai Katasila, a PAD coordinator, said his alliance is considering canceling its rallies in Bangkok to avoid any clashes with pro-government groups.

"We've been informed that the UDD is preparing to hold a rally near our rally sites," he said.

"We're worried that there could be a confrontation with UDD supporters if we go ahead with our rallies."

He also said the PAD would not accept any new government formed by the ruling People Power party should Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat step down.

He conceded that the PAD wants the military to seize power and return it to civil society and respected parties to form an interim government.

"I don't want to see another coup, but will accept it if it leads to political change by the people," he said.

A 59-year-old PAD supporter died in hospital yesterday after collapsing at Government House.

Somlert Kasemsukprakarn was waiting to have a medical check at a PAD medical unit at Government House when he collapsed. He was rushed to Vajira Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Doctors said he had a history of heart problems.

source bangkok post

Red shirts mobilised

A group of government supporters is planning to take up arms and stage running battles with the army on the streets of Bangkok if the military attempts to stage a coup against the Somchai Wongsawat administration.

Military specialist Maj-Gen Khattiya Sawasdipol, who is close to the government, said a military putsch will be met by strong resistance from pro-government factions.

United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) supporters and several pro-government movements in the Northeast are poised to take to the streets and fight troops, he said.

Maj-Gen Khattiya, who claims to be training UDD supporters, said Molotov cocktails would be used against tanks if they rumble through the streets.

"If a coup is staged, the 4th Cavalry Battalion [which controls 50 tanks] will be blocked," he said.

"In the Sept 19 [2006] coup, tanks rolled out, but no-one dared to fight. This time, fire-bombs will be waiting.

"There is also a chance people will lie down on the streets and block the tanks. In the last coup people gave them flowers. But if they come out now, people will hurl Molotov cocktails at them."

There have been rumours of a new coup since the leaders of the armed forces, led by Army Commander Gen Anupong Paojinda, appeared on a television programme on Thursday and called on Mr Somchai to take responsibility for the Oct 7 clashes between police and protesters. The military's move was perceived as a threat to stage a coup.

Maj-Gen Khattiya blamed military leaders for creating a climate of fear in their TV appearance, as they were dressed in full military uniform.

When asked about the UDD's forces, he said they were being trained to fight and the training ground had been shifted from Sanam Luang to a training camp.

He said there were hundreds of UDD fighters whose task is to counter the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD).

Maj-Gen Khattiya said UDD fighters had been approached by the government and the police to help block PAD protesters on Oct 7 and Oct 13.

On Oct 7 they were asked to go to Parliament to clear the way for Mr Somchai to leave the premises after delivering his policy statement.

However, the prime minister managed to slip out on his own.

He claimed they were asked to go to police headquarters on Oct 13 to counter PAD demonstrators who threatened to hold a rally against the previous clash. However, the PAD cancelled the rally.

Prime Minister Somchai has reportedly exercised extreme caution to avoid being captured to make way for a coup.

He took a chartered flight, instead of the usual military jet, to Ubon Ratchathani yesterday to visit soldiers wounded in border clashes with Cambodian troops.

Mr Somchai originally planned to travel to a hospital in Sapprasitthiprasong camp in the province with Gen Anupong and take an army helicopter to visit Thai troops near the Preah Vihear temple on the Thailand-Cambodia border.

He cancelled his visit to Pha Mor E Daeng for a situation briefing.

A military source close to Mr Somchai said the prime minister was urged to be cautious following Gen Anupong's televised comments.

Officers from the Air Force's Security Force Command and the police force have been sent to his house on Chaeng Wattana road to beef up security.

The source noted that the relationship between Mr Somchai and Gen Anupong had deteriorated, but the prime minister had no plans to remove Gen Anupong or any military leaders from their posts to pre-empt an attempted coup.

"The relationship between them has been totally severed. They stick with their jobs. Mr Somchai will not demote Gen Anupong. If the military want to stage a coup, let it be," said the source.

During his visit to Ubon Ratchathani, Mr Somchai was greeted by about 3,000 supporters.

However when he was asked about Gen Anupong, Mr Somchai refused to answer and walked away.

source bangkok post

Some sincerity, please

The clash between the Thai military and Cambodian troops along the border on Oct 15 has raised questions about Phnom Penh's sincerity in settling the border dispute through diplomacy.

The road to peace has been ruined despite several rounds of multi-level meetings between the two countries.

The two nations have promised many times in the past few months to exercise restraint. But Phnom Penh has failed to keep its promise.

Every time a clash happens, the Foreign Ministry has summoned the Cambodian ambassador or the charge d'affaires to protest against the Cambodian action, and they always promise to resolve things through negotiations. But a short time later, another clash occurs.

The fighting last Wednesday was quite serious - seven Thai soldiers were injured and two Cambodian soldiers killed.

After the Foreign Ministry went through its usual pattern of protesting through diplomatic channels, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said on Friday that the conflict would not end in war, that both sides would exercise restraint along the border and the problems would be tackled through bilateral talks. But what does that mean?

Phnom Penh's past record in keeping its word has not been good. And because of this Thailand has started to have doubts about its neighbour's sincerity. Asean members Indonesia and Malaysia have even offered to act as mediators.

The Cambodian government needs to show it is genuine about settling problems through bilateral talks.

Bringing bilateral problems to the international community or to the International Court of Justice, as earlier suggested by Mr Hun Sen, will not help ease tensions and instead will only heat up the conflict.

Cambodia became angry in July after the government opposed its request to take the border issue to the multilateral level through Asean members and the 15 members of the United Nations Security Council.

The Cambodians thought the government feared losing the case if it went to the International Court of Justice, which is what happened 50 years ago when Thailand lost the Preah Vihear temple to Cambodia in the same court.

In fact, Thailand has never feared taking a case to court. Thanks to many countries like the United States, China and Russia, as well as UN secretary-general Ban Ki-moon, Thailand has stuck to its position and not played Cambodia's game.

The Phnom Penh government should know that the world has changed and no third country wants to get involved or support another country in a war against its neighbour, especially if nothing would be gained by that third country.

A key point in the conflicts between Thailand and Cambodia has been the demarcation of the disputed 4.6-square-kilometre overlapping area. The issue is unlikely to be settled unless border demarcation is finished.

Examples from other countries with similar border problems can be used as a model.

Until the problems are resolved, both countries must abide by their commitment and exercise restraint. This will surely take time, but a victory from the process will likely last longer than one derived from war.

source bangkok post

The PAD is equally to blame for Oct 7

I agree the government and police must be held responsible for the Oct 7 violence on the streets of Bangkok which cost two lives and left hundreds of people injured.

But I don't think those two parties are the only ones answerable for the incident.

On Oct 7 the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) leaders led thousands of supporters to seal all entrances of Parliament House in an attempt to block MPs and senators from announcing the government policy and formally launching the Somchai Wongsawat administration.

Based on the PAD's earlier move to occupy Government House, it was not pessimistic to expect a repeat at the Parliament, so the police operation to disperse the protesters to pave the way for the assembly was acceptable and not a crime against humanity.

Where the police went wrong was not in their decision to disperse the demonstrators but the way they went about it.

It's not hard to imagine what the police were thinking when the PAD's seizure of several state agencies and Government House on Aug 26 was still fresh in their minds.

On that occasion, order was maintained as police and the government exercised patience in order to avoid violence, for they knew that if it happened, the brunt of the blame would fall on them.

PAD leaders always say their protest is based on "ahimsa", a Hindu doctrine which advocates non-violence and peaceful resolution.

The PAD could be worthy of respect if they truly were really following the path of ahimsa.

If we step back from the recent violence and look back at the overall situation over recent months, we can see whether or not the PAD movement is serving the ahimsa principle well.

Before seizing Government House, PAD supporters occupied and blocked main streets in Bangkok-Ratchadamnoen Nok avenue and Phitsanulok road - to use as a base for their protest, causing a lot of problems for commuters and schoolchildren.

Then, as this proved unpopular, they turned their attention to Government House, taking complete control of the compound, which they maintain to this day, and denying the head of the administration access to his offices. Then followed the siege of Parliament.

PAD leaders insist its protests are peaceful and constitutional.

Let's talk about constitutionality. PAD leaders claim their right to stage peaceful rallies based on the first paragraph of Article 63 of the 2007 charter, stipulating that "a person shall enjoy the liberty to assemble peacefully and without arms".

Still, the PAD has never mentioned the following paragraph, stipulating that "restriction on such liberty shall not be imposed except by virtue of the law specifically enacted for the case of public assembly and for securing public convenience in the use of public places".

In addition, Article 28 of the charter concerning the rights and liberties of the Thai people clearly states that "a person can invoke human dignity or exercise his or her rights and liberties in so far as it is not in violation of the rights and liberties of other persons or contrary to the Constitution or good morals'.'

I'm sure the PAD's moves to block streets, seize Government House, and seal off Parliament have violated other people's rights and liberties and caused public inconvenience.

Should the PAD leaders take responsibility for such unconstitutional actions, which they claim to be peaceful?

The PAD leaders should be held accountable for the Oct 7 bloodshed.

The way I look at it, the government and police can be blamed for the outcome, while the PAD leaders could be blamed for its cause.

Mr Somchai and the police chief have expressed "regret" for the incidents but I have yet to hear a single word of remorse from the PAD leaders.

They may claim their protests are aimed at helping the nation and reforming the political system.

That can be respected, but it's not necessary for everyone else in the country to agree with them.

Moreover, those who disagree should not be labelled as non-patriots or be lumped in with those who have no virtue.

In our long experience, abrupt constitutional changes have not given us actual democracy. Patient learning can achieve this.

Why do the PAD leaders not put their trust in the justice system which is performing its duty?

source bangkok post

Whip files police complaint

The government whip yesterday filed a complaint with Dusit police against the People's Alliance for Democracy, accusing its members of besieging parliament and firing guns in parliamentary premises on Oct 7. Chief whip Suchart Lainamngern, a Lop Buri People Power party MP, said the entrance to the second floor and exterior wall of the parliament were riddled with bullet holes.

Mr Suchart claimed PAD core leaders told supporters to hold MPs hostage, fire shots into the parliament and place petrol-soaked tyres on the premises in preparation for setting the place on fire.

He said it was difficult to imagine what might have happened had the riot squad not stepped in to keep the protesters at bay.

source bangkok post

Funeral rites

Her Majesty the Queen presided over the funeral rites of a 28-year-old woman who died during last week's violence. Her Royal Highness Chulabhorn Valayalaksana also attended the rites, as did army chief Anupong Paojinda and Democrat party leaders Abhisit Vejjajiva and Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin.

The cremation took place at Wat Sriprawat in Nonthaburi's Bang Kruai district on Monday.

Thousands of people, including People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) supporters, military leaders and police officers, attended the cremation.

As Her Majesty arrived at the temple, crowds of people shouted "Long Live the Queen".

During the cremation rites, the Queen spoke to Jinda Radappanyawut, Angkhana's father.

Mr Jinda later said: "Her Majesty gave moral support to our family. Her Majesty said that Nong Bow [Angkhana's nickname] was a decent person who helped the nation and the King. Her Majesty said that His Majesty the King was informed about Nong Bow and that His Majesty had donated money to help the injured people. I am very honoured."

Angkhana's mother was not present at the cremation as she was being treated for wounds received during the clash.

When the Queen and Princess Chulabhorn left the temple after the ceremony, a melee broke out as military commanders were jostled and heckled by PAD supporters.

Security guards had to help army commander-in-chief Gen Anupong Paojinda push his way past the crowds to his car, which some PAD supporters followed and banged on.

Central Institute of Forensic Science director Porntip Rojanasunan said tests conducted on Sunday found the explosive RDX in the tear gas canisters and tear gas grenades used during the Oct 7 crackdown. The substance is used in powerful bombs.

Most of the tear gas canisters and tear gas grenades used during the Oct 7 crackdown were made in China and contained RDX, Khunying Porntip said.

She said it was found that Angkhana's fatal wound had been caused by the impact of a tear gas canister fired from a shotgun.

"I have sent all the findings to the National Human Rights Commission. It was found that the users of the tear gas did not buy them from China. But someone else supplied the tear gas to them.

"I don't know if they were ever tested before use," Khunying Porntip said.

She said police told her that Chinese-made tear gas bought in 1995 was no longer stored in the police arms depot.

Earlier on Monday, Khunying Porntip said in a radio interview that politicians had pressured police into cracking down on the PAD demonstrators.

"I received information that senior police officers had decided not to disperse the crowds. But they bowed to pressure from politicians," she said..

Khunying Porntip added that she had the details of a joint meeting assessing the damage of the crackdown, attended by concerned high-ranking officials.

She noted that firing only a few tear gas canisters would have been more than enough to disperse the crowds, instead of the hundreds used.

She also questioned why police fired new rounds of tear gas in the evening of Oct 7 when it was known injuries and deaths had resulted from such actions in the morning.

Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat had an audience with the King at Klai Klang Won Palace in Prachuap Khiri Khan's Hua Hin district on Monday.

Mr Somchai reported the progress on the government's work.

On his return to Don Mueang airport, Mr Somchai appeared tired, stressed and absent-minded. There were long pauses before he answered questions.

source bangkok post

Porntip questions police action against protesters

Ministry's Central Institute of Forensic Science director Porntip Rojanasunan on Monday questioned the police about the crowd dispersal on October 7, which led to almost 500 injuries and twodead.

She believed there were more than two people who cammanded the crowd dispersal and raised five questions:

1. Why were there police in many locations?

2. How did the police procure the weapons and tear gas?

3. Had the police been properly trained to use weapons and tear gas?

4. Why did the police fire about a hundred shotsof tear gas?

5. Why did the police disperse the group of protesters in the evening again?

source bangkok post

Police chief 'sorry' for violence

The Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, Pol Gen Patcharawat Wongsuwan, on Monday said he was sorry about the fatal police effort to disperse the crowd of protesters in front of the parliament on October 7.

Speaking on National Police Day, Pol Gen Patcharawat also paid homage at the King Rama IV Monument and made merit for policemen and people who died during the riot last week.

After the religious ceremony, the national police chief said he felt sorry about the incident on Oct 7, which left two dead and more than 400 injured.

He then reminded the police to continue to work hard, protect the royal institution and democracy, and be dependable for the public.

Concerning the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD)’s plan to file a lawsuit against police unlawful use of force to disperse the demonstrators, Pol Gen Patcharawat said the government will have to take care of its state agencies, but the investigation result must be revealed first.

Meanwhile at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters on Rama I Road, about 500 people led by former Police Department director Salang Bunnag gathered at the main entrance to voice their support to the police.

Pol Gen Salang said he has not withdrawn the plan to take over Government House from the PAD and return it to the government. He insisted no matter what happen after the operation, he will take the full responsibility.

Pol Gen Salang said he could not bear to see Thailand losing its reputation.

source bangkok post

PAD calls off protest in Bangkok

Thailand's anti-government People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) has called off a planned protest in Bangkok Monday, defusing political tensions after the prime minister apologized for a crackdown on the movement last week. PAD leader Sonhdi Limthongkul announced the cancellation of a planned protest outside the Royal Thai Police Headquarters late Sunday night after Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat publicly apologized for a police crackdown on the movement on October 7 that left two dead and almost 500 injured. The cancellation of the protest has defused fears of another bloodbath in Bangkok. Some 1,350 police officers had been stationed outside the police headquarters, and about 10,000 pro-government followers of the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) had gathered in Bangkok to counter the PAD. Instead of protesting, the PAD will attend the funerals of two victims of the October 7 crackdown, in which police fired tear gas canisters directly in to the demonstration, causing casualties, and prompting a violent response from the PAD followers, many of whom were armed with golf clubs, iron rods, sticks and pistols. An investigation is still underway into how so many people could be injured Prime Minister Somchai, in a televised speech Sunday night, also called for national unity and noted that the government is tasked with several important jobs in coming months including organizing a state funeral for Princess Galani Vadhana on November 14, King Bhumibol Adulyadej's 81st birthday on December 5 and hosting the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in mid-December. The PAD has been leading anti-government rallies in Bangkok since May, this year, culminating with their seizure of Government House - the seat of the government administration - on August 26. The movement is staunchly opposed to the return to power of coup-ousted former premier Thaksin Shinwatara, who is currently living in self-exile with his family in London. Although Pol Lt-Col Thaksin is banned from politics and facing numerous corruption charges in Thailand, the government is headed by the pro-Thaksin People Power party (PPP). Mr Somchai is ex-premier Thaksin's brother-in-law. The deposed prime minister faces several corruption charges dating back to his two-term premiership from 2001 to 2006, and his wife Pojaman has been sentenced to three years in prison for tax evasion. He was ousted in a bloodless military coup on September 19, 2006. source bangkok post

PAD calls off protest in Bangkok

Thailand's anti-government People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) has called off a planned protest in Bangkok Monday, defusing political tensions after the prime minister apologized for a crackdown on the movement last week.

PAD leader Sonhdi Limthongkul announced the cancellation of a planned protest outside the Royal Thai Police Headquarters late Sunday night after Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat publicly apologized for a police crackdown on the movement on October 7 that left two dead and almost 500 injured.

The cancellation of the protest has defused fears of another bloodbath in Bangkok. Some 1,350 police officers had been stationed outside the police headquarters, and about 10,000 pro-government followers of the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) had gathered in Bangkok to counter the PAD.

Instead of protesting, the PAD will attend the funerals of two victims of the October 7 crackdown, in which police fired tear gas canisters directly in to the demonstration, causing casualties, and prompting a violent response from the PAD followers, many of whom were armed with golf clubs, iron rods, sticks and pistols.

An investigation is still underway into how so many people could be injured

Prime Minister Somchai, in a televised speech Sunday night, also called for national unity and noted that the government is tasked with several important jobs in coming months including organizing a state funeral for Princess Galani Vadhana on November 14, King Bhumibol Adulyadej's 81st birthday on December 5 and hosting the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in mid-December.

The PAD has been leading anti-government rallies in Bangkok since May, this year, culminating with their seizure of Government House - the seat of the government administration - on August 26.

The movement is staunchly opposed to the return to power of coup-ousted former premier Thaksin Shinwatara, who is currently living in self-exile with his family in London.

Although Pol Lt-Col Thaksin is banned from politics and facing numerous corruption charges in Thailand, the government is headed by the pro-Thaksin People Power party (PPP).

Mr Somchai is ex-premier Thaksin's brother-in-law.

The deposed prime minister faces several corruption charges dating back to his two-term premiership from 2001 to 2006, and his wife Pojaman has been sentenced to three years in prison for tax evasion. He was ousted in a bloodless military coup on September 19, 2006.

source bangkok post

Police chief is sorry for riot

The Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, Pol Gen Patcharawat Wongsuwan, expressed his grief over the police’s effort to disperse the crowd of protesters in front of the parliament on October 7.

On the occasion of the National Police Day on Monday, Pol Gen Patcharawat paid homage to King Rama IV Monument and made merit for the policemen and people who died during the riot last week.

After the religious ceremony, the national police chief said he felt sorry about the incident on October 7, which left two dead and over 400 injured.

He then reminded the police to continue to work at their utmost, protect the royal institution and democracy, and be dependable for the public.

Concerning the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD)’s plan to file a lawsuit against the police for allegedly using forceful means to disperse the demonstrators, Pol Gen Patcharawat said the government will have to take care of its state agencies, but the investigation result must be revealed first.

Meanwhile at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters on Rama I Road, about 500 people led by former Police Department director Salang Boonnag gathered at the main entrance to voice their support to the police.

Pol Gen Salang said he has not withdrawn the plan to take over Government House from the PAD and return to the government. He insisted no matter what happen after the operation, he will take the full responsibility.

Pol Gen Salang said he could not bear to see Thailand losing its reputation.

source bangkok post

Rally at police HQ postponed

The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) last night announced a last minute cancellation of today's mass rally in front of the Royal Police Office. The rally was called off because of the cremation ceremonies for two supporters killed in clashes with police last Tuesday.

In training Calling themselves the King Taksin warriors, security guards for the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship trained with wooden staves at Sanam Luang yesterday. SAROT MEKSOPHAWANNAKUL

The decision calmed fears of another bloody clash. Police had called in reinforcements and had 1,350 officers guarding their headquarters and had sealed off the two entrances on Henri Dunant and Rama I roads. PAD supporters and pro-government supporters from the provinces were also heading for Bangkok.

The PAD's rival, the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD), was stationed at Sanam Luang yesterday where their security guards underwent training.

A short while before the PAD announcement, Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat made a 10-minute nationwide announcement on television calling on anti-government demonstrators to end their protests, give up their occupation of Government House and clear the streets and allow his government to fully function.

PAD leader Sondhi Limthongkul told demonstrators the planned rally would be postponed for a few days until the completion of the funeral rites for Angkhana Radappanyawut and Pol Lt-Col Methee Chartmontri.

Angkhana, 28, who died while being taken from the site of the clash at the Royal Plaza to Ramathibodi hospital, will be cremated at Wat Sri Prawat in Bang Kruai district in Nonthaburi today. Pol Lt-Col Methee's cremation ceremony is set for tomorrow.

"We just learned about Angkhana and Methee's cremations and we don't want the rally [at police headquarters] to overshadow these very important events. We want the ceremonies to be the grandest," Mr Sondhi said.

"We want today and tomorrow to be the biggest days for our late heroine and hero. Their funerals are far more important than the massive rally at police headquarters," he added.

All the PAD leaders will attend Angkhana's cremation ceremony, where a large number of PAD supporters are also expected. Chamlong Srimuang, another PAD core leader, said the PAD's leaders would set a new date for their mass rally at police headquarters tomorrow.

Mr Somchai said in his address to the country that the government needed to work out plans to cope with the looming global economic crises that originated in the United States but would inevitably expand to Asia.

Business sectors would feel the "appalling" impact of the economic downturn and the country needed to be prepared, he said.

The government must also stay in office to perform many important functions, including the funeral of Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana next month, the birthday celebrations for His Majesty the King in December that traditionally uses Government House as a venue, and the summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), also in December.

Thailand is chairing the 10-member group. Thai people need to show unity among themselves, pay respect to the royal institution and show the country's readiness to host the Asean summit, he added.

In response to calls for his resignation, Mr Somchai said he would neither resign nor dissolve the House unless those options would lead to a political solution.

He also expressed sorrow for the fatal crackdown on demonstrators last Tuesday and said some demonstrations breached the law and his elected government had to be answerable to the public and enforce the law.

The government already formed two committees. One panel will quickly find out the facts surrounding the Oct 7 incident and the other committee will work out ways to compensate affected people and damaged properties, including those affected and damaged before last Tuesday's unrest.

He said Deputy Prime Minister Chavarat Charnveerakul had been appointed to chair the committee to rehabilitate the victims, and Preecha Panitchwong, a former Supreme Administrative Court judge, was selected to be the chairman to probe the violent crackdown last Tuesday

source bangkok post

Thaksin to give up diplomatic passport

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has decided to return his diplomatic passport to the Foreign Ministry to ease the pressure on his brother-in-law, Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, a source close to him said.

Mr Thaksin had already informed his brother-in-law of his decision, but has not set a date for the return of the passport, according to the source.

On Oct 21, the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions will hand down a verdict on the Ratchadaphisek land case in which Mr Thaksin and his wife, Khunying Potjaman, are defendants.

Mr Thaksin and his wife are seeking political asylum in Britain. The two and their children have been living in self-exile in London since fleeing Thailand in August. They both jumped bail and warrants for their arrest have been issued.

source bangkok post

PM faces ouster

Army Commander-in-Chief Gen Anupong Paojinda became the latest public figure to join a chorus of calls for the government to show responsibility for the Oct 7 crackdown on the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) protesters which left two people dead and more than 400 injured.

Yet, Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat has persistently resisted the calls, although he said last week that he would consider a response at an appropriate time.

Obviously, the embattled premier wants to buy time to delay his decision to show responsibility until an investigation into the tragic event by an independent truth commission is completed.

But time may not be on his side. Instead, it is running out fast. The prime minister may be forced to stand down, not because of a military putsch or because of a Constitution Court order to dissolve the People Power party on electoral fraud charges, but because of a verdict of the National Counter Corruption Commission, which is due tomorrow or Thursday, relating to a decade-long malfeasance case against the prime minister.

To sum up, the case was brought to public attention in 1998 by a chief judge of a panel of the Criminal Court. It referred to the auction of a plot of land in Thanyaburi district of Pathum Thani conducted by the Legal Execution Department under the supervision of the department's deputy director-general, Manit Suthaporn.

It was alleged Mr Manit had not properly performed his duty for failing to demand 43 million baht in tax from the successful bidder for the land deal. Also, Mr Manit had returned the 70 million baht deposit posted by the bidder to the land owner after the first auction was scrapped following the bidder's failure to come up with the money to close the deal. It was discovered afterward by the NCCC that Mr Manit had received 10,000 shares as a favour in return for services rendered. Mr Somchai was then deputy permanent secretary for justice and Suthas Ngernmuen of the Democrat party was then the justice minister.

Instead of being complimented for his whistle-blowing by his superiors in the judiciary and the Justice Ministry, the intrepid judge, who had no business whatever to do with the deal or with the Legal Execution Department, received threats, intimidation and even offers of bribes to have his case withdrawn. Unperturbed he pressed on and a probe was finally ordered and headed by a vice president of the Supreme Court who also worked under heavy pressure.

The probe was completed two years afterward with the Legal Execution Department, instead of Mr Manit, being faulted for the failure to claim the 43 million baht land sale tax for the state. The probe panel also recommended that the case must be followed up to ensure that someone be held accountable for the tax loss.

The case was then swept under the carpet and Mr Manit was promoted to deputy permanent secretary for justice whereas Mr Somchai was named the permanent secretary. Disappointed by the negative response from Mr Somchai, the judge decided to take the case against both Mr Somchai and Mr Manit to the NCCC.

It wasn't until the Surayud government took power in 2006 that the NCCC finished the probe against Mr Manit, who was faulted with malfeasance in office. He was eventually fired without any pension in the same year by Gen Surayud's government.

But the case against Mr Somchai who was accused of negligence of duty for his failure to follow up with action against Mr Manit is still pending with the NCCC. A sub-committee headed by Klanarong Chantik has already completed its probe into Mr Somchai's role and has made a recommendation to the NCCC board which is due to deliver its final ruling this week.

The timing of the verdict could not be more appropriate given the growing chorus for the embattled prime minister to show responsibility for the Oct 7 bloodletting.

Instead of a coup to force political change which will further exacerbate Thailand's faltering image in the international community, the NCCC should provide a better alternative solution. And there is no reason for the NCCC board to postpone its crucial ruling.

If faulted for gross negligence related to a graft case, the only penalty to be meted out is dismissal from service. As such Mr Somchai's qualifications as an MP will be in doubt in accordance with Article 102 (6) of the Constitution. And since he is an MP, his status as prime minister will be in jeopardy too.

source bangkok post

PAD postpones protest

The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) has called off the Monday rally at police headquarters - so leaders can attend the cremation ceremonies for two supporters killed during clashes with authorites last Tuesday. Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat pleaded for calm.

Chamlong Srimuang, a PAD core leader, said on Sunday night that a new date will be set for the anti-police demonstration.

Mr Somchai said he would gladly resign - but there was no sign that resignation would calm the political climate.

For one day at least, the decision to call off a mass rally near Siam Square against the police calmed fears of another bloody clash.

Police had called in reinforcements and had 1,350 officers guarding their headquarters. They sealed off the two entrances on Henri Dunant and Rama I roads. PAD supporters and pro-government supporters from the provinces were also heading for Bangkok for the confrontation.

The PAD's rival, the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD), was stationed at Sanam Luang on Sunday where their security guards underwent training.

A short while before the PAD announcement, Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat made a 10-minute nationwide announcement on television calling on anti-government demonstrators to end their protests, give up their occupation of Government House and clear the streets and allow his government to fully function.

PAD leader Sondhi Limthongkul told demonstrators the planned rally would be postponed for a few days until the completion of the funeral rites for Angkhana Radappanyawut and Pol Lt-Col Methee Chartmontri.

Angkhana, 28, who died while being taken from the site of the clash at the Royal Plaza to Ramathibodi hospital, will be cremated at Wat Sri Prawat in Bang Kruai district in Nonthaburi on Monday. Pol Lt-Col Methee's cremation ceremony is set for Tuesday.

"We just learned about Angkhana and Methee's cremations and we don't want the rally [at police headquarters] to overshadow these very important events. We want the ceremonies to be the grandest," Mr Sondhi said.

"We want today (Monday) and tomorrow to be the biggest days for our late heroine and hero. Their funerals are far more important than the massive rally at police headquarters," he added.

All the PAD leaders will attend Angkhana's cremation ceremony, where a large number of PAD supporters are also expected.

Mr Somchai said in his address to the country that the government needed to work out plans to cope with the looming global economic crises that originated in the United States but would inevitably expand to Asia.

Business sectors would feel the "appalling" impact of the economic downturn and the country needed to be prepared, he said.

The government must also stay in office to perform many important functions, including the funeral of Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana next month, the birthday celebrations for His Majesty the King in December that traditionally uses Government House as a venue, and the summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), also in December.

Thailand is chairing the 10-member group. Thai people need to show unity among themselves, pay respect to the royal institution and show the country's readiness to host the Asean summit, he added.

In response to calls for his resignation, Mr Somchai said he would neither resign nor dissolve the House unless those options would lead to a political solution.

He also expressed sorrow for the fatal crackdown on demonstrators last Tuesday and said some demonstrations breached the law and his elected government had to be answerable to the public and enforce the law.

The government already formed two committees. One panel will quickly find out the facts surrounding the Oct 7 incident and the other committee will work out ways to compensate affected people and damaged properties, including those affected and damaged before last Tuesday's unrest.

He said Deputy Prime Minister Chavarat Charnveerakul had been appointed to chair the committee to rehabilitate the victims, and Preecha Panitchwong, a former Supreme Administrative Court judge, was selected to be the chairman to probe the violent crackdown last Tuesday.

source

BangkokPost

PM calls on national unity, cooperation

Prime Minister and Defence Minister Somchai Wongsawat on Sunday called on all sides to reconcile and work together to address the national problems and be prepared for the potential economic crisis.

Giving a public announcement on the state-run National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT) television channel on Sunday at about 8.40pm, Mr Somchai said it is alright for people with different ideas to hold gatherings, but they must be within the legal framework so they would not violate rights of other people.

He said the government is democratically elected, and therefore, the government has to be responsible for its people and the parliament. The government continues to adhere to the constitutional monarchy, he added.

The premier said he felt sorry for the violent clashes between the police and the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) supporters on October 7, in which more than 400 people were injured and two people were killed.

He said the government has set up two independent committees responsible for investigating the violent activities and aiding the injured from the incident last week. He believed the investigation would not take long, and its result will be revealed to the general public clearly.

Besides the problems relating to conflicting ideas and politics, the prime minister called on the Thai people to reconcile and be prepared for another crisis – the global economic crisis.

According to Mr Somchai, although the crisis began in the United States, Britain and Europe, it could also hit the Asian economy because it plays an important part in the global economy. He said it could affect investment and employment sectors in Thailand as well as prices of local agricultural products.

The premier said Thailand once encountered an economic crisis in 1997, and it is now necessary for all sides in the country to be prepared to handle another economic downturn to prevent it from worsening.

Thai people must join hands in preparation for the royal cremation ceremony of Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana in November and His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s birthday anniversary on December 5, the prime minister said.

In addition, he asked Thai people to unite as the country will host an Asean Summit. He said Thailand must show its readiness and unity to foreign countries, and called on the PAD to leave Government House and the streets where the protesters gathered for the country’s benefits and honour.

Referring to the rumours that the prime minister will resign or dissolve the House of Representatives, Mr Somchai asked public members to use their discretion and common sense to prevent themselves from being misled.

He insisted he will not resign and has no plan to dissolve the House of Representatives because he believed such acts would not solve the problem.

However, the premier said he is ready to step down, if the country clearly benefits from it.

It is important for all sides to jointly find ways to end the problem, such as setting up a constitution drafting assembly to improve the charter, the prime minister concluded.

source bangkok post

Democrats demand that Somchai resign

The Democrat party on Sunday demanded that Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat step down to show responsibility for last Tuesday's fatal street clashes, the failing economy and what the opposition calls the shaky democratic system.

Bangkok MP Ongart Klampaiboon said Mr Somchai, also defence minister, must show responsibility for the "three crises" especially after Friday's remarks by the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, Gen Anupong Paochinda, who urged the government to take responsibility for last Tuesday's police crackdown on protesters backed by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD).

Gen Anupong's remarks have caused an uncertain atmosphere and there is no guarantee that the military will not stage a coup d'etat, said Mr Ongart.

Two persons died and nearly 500 others were injured in the clashes as police fired tear gas at protesters trying to block the government from parliament.

Mr Somchai must accelerate his resignation decision before the "three crises damage the country, himself and all of us," Mr Ongart said.

Mr Somchai has stated several times that he will not resign.

Concerning criticism that the Democrat party was irresponsible for its boycotted of parliament, Mr. Ongart said members of his party decided not to attend the meeting because of the clash in front of the building.

If that meeting had been postponed, the clash could have been averted, he said.

Democrat assistant to the secretary-general Thepthai Senpong demanded that coalition partners resign, to isolate the ruling People Power party (PPP), which cannot control a majority in the Lower House.

The PPP must have evaluated that the military would not stage a coup and, therefore, the coalition government cannot be toppled, and divisiveness has spread among the people throughout the country, according to Mr Thepthai.

Democrat's shadow deputy prime minister Kasit Pirom urged the government to disclose where it bought the weapons used by police last week.

Mr Kasit, who is a former ambassador to Washington, also urged weapons suppliers including the US, Russia and China to impose stricter measures in selling their weapons. He said it is now proved that these weapons are used for killing people in the country and "not for defending the country".

source bangkok post

Prem may step in as a mediator

Concerned by the country's deteriorating economy and the political crisis, Privy Council President Prem Tinsulanonda is pondering whether he should involve himself in resolving the months-long political standoff, a source close to him said yesterday.

Gen Prem was weighing on whether he should take on the role of a mediator by inviting Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat and key leaders of the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) such as Chamlong Srimuang and Sondhi Limthongkul for separate talks, the source said.

The meetings, if held, would be aimed at convincing them to put their differences aside for the sake of the country, the source added.

While presiding over a ceremony to promote public unity and the desire to end the southern violence, he said he was saddened by the violent clashes between the PAD supporters and police on Tuesday.

Two people were killed and 478 injured in the clashes as the anti-government movement tried to block the government from announcing its policy in parliament.

The source said the privy council president has been consulting privy councillors and military leaders close to him since Tuesday for a solution to the ongoing crisis.

Army chief Gen Anupong Paojinda on Friday urged the government to take responsibility for what has happened.

Mr Somchai, who is also defence minister, said yesterday that he was not in conflict with the army commander and said he was sincere in his efforts by setting up two panels to look into the ruthless police action and compensate the victims of Tuesday's clashes.

source bangkok post