Statement by WHO Director-General, Dr Margaret Chan (See Swine Flu Map)
29 April 2009, Swine influenza From: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/statements/2009/h1n1_20090429/en/index.html
Ladies and gentlemen, Based on assessment of all available information, and following several expert consultations, I have decided to raise the current level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 4 to phase 5. Influenza pandemics must be taken seriously precisely because of their capacity to spread rapidly to every country in the world. Related links Listen to the audio [mp3 57 Mb] Swine influenza - full coverage Current WHO phase of pandemic alert International Health Regulations (IHR) On the positive side, the world is better prepared for an influenza pandemic than at any time in history. Preparedness measures undertaken because of the threat from H5N1 avian influenza were an investment, and we are now benefitting from this investment. For the first time in history, we can track the evolution of a pandemic in real-time. I thank countries who are making the results of their investigations publicly available. This helps us understand the disease. I am impressed by the work being done by affected countries as they deal with the current outbreaks. I also want to thank the governments of the USA and Canada for their support to WHO, and to Mexico. Let me remind you. New diseases are, by definition, poorly understood. Influenza viruses are notorious for their rapid mutation and unpredictable behaviour. WHO and health authorities in affected countries will not have all the answers immediately, but we will get them. WHO will be tracking the pandemic at the epidemiological, clinical, and virological levels. The results of these ongoing assessments will be issued as public health advice, and made publicly available. All countries should immediately activate their pandemic preparedness plans. Countries should remain on high alert for unusual outbreaks of influenza-like illness and severe pneumonia. At this stage, effective and essential measures include heightened surveillance, early detection and treatment of cases, and infection control in all health facilities. This change to a higher phase of alert is a signal to governments, to ministries of health and other ministries, to the pharmaceutical industry and the business community that certain actions should now be undertaken with increased urgency, and at an accelerated pace. I have reached out to donor countries, to UNITAID, to the GAVI Alliance, the World Bank and others to mobilize resources. I have reached out to companies manufacturing antiviral drugs to assess capacity and all options for ramping up production. I have also reached out to influenza vaccine manufacturers that can contribute to the production of a pandemic vaccine. The biggest question, right now, is this: how severe will the pandemic be, especially now at the start? It is possible that the full clinical spectrum of this disease goes from mild illness to severe disease. We need to continue to monitor the evolution of the situation to get the specific information and data we need to answer this question. From past experience, we also know that influenza may cause mild disease in affluent countries, but more severe disease, with higher mortality, in developing countries. No matter what the situation is, the international community should treat this as a window of opportunity to ramp up preparedness and response. Above all, this is an opportunity for global solidarity as we look for responses and solutions that benefit all countries, all of humanity. After all, it really is all of humanity that is under threat during a pandemic. As I have said, we do not have all the answers right now, but we will get them. Thank you.
Red-shirts in Korat charged with lèse majesté for burning coffin in protest against General Prem
Sun, 26/04/2009 - 07:57
Prachatai (Edited by us...)
Group of pro-PAD Korat residents file lese majeste charge against "Daeng."
"Daeng" - Seen as never apologetic!
On Apr 24, Papatchanan Ching-in, leader of a group of red-shirts in Nakhon Ratchasima province, reported to police after arrest warrant had been issued for her by the provincial court on the previous day. She and her friends were charged with lèse majesté after they had staged a protest against President of the Privy Council Gen Prem Tinsulanonda, the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), and the government by burning a mock coffin at the province’s Tao Suranari Statue on Apr 7. On the coffin, they reportedly put a message referring to Prem by a royal prefix to mock what was believed to be PAD leader Sondhi Limthongkul’s slip of the tongue when he routinely appeared on his ASTV on Apr 3, saying, ‘the yellow shirts come out to protect Gen Prem, as […censored to save Prachatai of another possible charge..] [Ed note: The text on the front of the coffin read, "His Majesty...General Prem...The PAD...Government of Crooks...born....died 8 April 2009] is President of the Privy Council’. (see clip in Thai) On 26 April 2009, "Daeng" denied lese majeste allegations and cursed police official filing the charge. See audio here ( - MP3) The recording is about one hour long, from local FM 104.5 community radio that "Daeng" now claims to own.
According to Nakhon Ratchasima Police Superintendent Pol Col Bunlert Wongwajjana, Col Weerapattarapol Bunchiaw, a military officer attached to Army Region 2 at the province, filed the charge with the police on Apr 9. On Apr 10, PAD members in the province also filed charges against them for lèse majesté, violations of national security under Criminal Code Articles 113, 114 and 115, and defamation under Article 326. Denying all the charges, Papatchanan was brought to the provincial court and was granted bail guaranteed by her relative’s public service teacher position. She is obliged to report to the court on May 6. Her friends have yet to be identified by the police, said Pol Col Bunlert. PAD members also filed charge against the police themselves, including Provincial Police Commander Maj Pol Gen Chatkanok Kiewsangsong, Pol Col Bunlert Wongwajjana, Deputy Police Superintendent Lt Pol Col Pichet Orachun, Deputy Police Superintendent Lt Pol Col Chalasin Chalalai and 10 other policemen who were present at the scene for dereliction under Criminal Code Article 157 which carries a penalty of 1-10 years in prison and a fine of 2,000-20,000 baht.
25 April 2009
Public Relations Department & Thai News Agency
Violence Against Children, Not Children Soliders
Foreign Affairs Spokesman Tharit Charungvat rejects the allegation that the Thai Government has child soldiers, saying that the government has no policy on the matter. The spokesman said the news report on Thailand’s deployment of child soldiers was inaccurate and there were laws prohibiting people under the age of 18 from being recruited in the military service and joining a military battle. Violators of the laws are subject to punishments according to the Criminal Code and the 2003 Child Protection Act. According to the spokesman, the news report also mentioned violence against children and schools in the southern border provinces. However, it praised the Thai Government for their operations to protect children in the deep South which resulted in a significant decrease in child injuries and fatalities from insurgency.
BANGKOK, April 23, 2009
(TNA)
Army Chief Admits Army Involvement!...But...
 
Sondhi, left, recovering as Army chief General Anupong Paochinda, right, admits that Army ammo-possessed was used.
Thai Army chief Gen. Anupong Paochinda admitted on Thursday that some of the ammunition used in last Friday’s attempted assassination of Sondhi Limthongkul, leader of the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), belonged to the army, and pledged to take serious action against the culprit. Mr. Sondhi survived an assassination attempt last Friday when at least five gunmen fired a hail of bullets into his car as he was being chauffeured to work. Police investigators said 64 AK-47 cartridges were recovered, 16 M-16 cartridge casings and 17 SK cartridge casings were found at the crime scene. Gen. Anupong revealed that according to an investigation carried out by police and the Army Ordnance Department, 20 of the spent bullets were from army stocks, including 17 SK shell casings and three M-16 cartridges distributed in the First Army Area. The army chief said, however, that the military stores might have been stolen. An investigation will be carried out the as the First Army Area covers many sub-agencies in Bangkok and some central provinces. “As I have been informed, the specific ammunition was used during army field training. To identify where it comes from is very difficult as up to ten thousand (rounds of) ammunition are distributed each time,” the army chief said. Gen. Anupong said any soldier found involved in the case will face harsh punishment. (TNA)
Lese Majeste - Woman arrested in Nakhon Ratchasima
Woman arrested for photocopying offensive leaflets in Nakhon Ratchasima
Sat, 18/04/2009 - 17:28 Matichon/Prachatai
On April 18, 2009, Matichon reported that police arrested Thossaporn Ruethaiprasertsung, 48, at a photocopying shop in Nakhon Ratchasima, and seized several leaflets whose contents reportedly were offensive to the monarchy and the Privy Council. Thossaporn told the police that she worked for hire. Each morning, she would walk from home to get a bus to a market. While waiting for the bus this morning, she found a stack of leaflets. She picked up some to read, and found they were about the monarchy. She brought them to the market and wanted to share with friends, so she went to the shop just to make copies, with no other intent. The police charged her under Article 112 of Criminal Code on lèse majesté, which carries a penalty of 3-15 years in prison, and sent an investigation team to find the source of the leaflets.
Thaksin Archenemy Nearly Assassinated
 
17 April 2009
the Nation and agency reports
Sondhi Limthongkul has been declared to be in safe condition after being shot by heavily-armed gunmen.
The gangland-style shooting in the early morning hours of 17 April 2009 is expected to prolong the state of emergency in Bangkok and suburbs, government leader said. There had been serious concerns for Sondhi's life as a bullet lodged in his skull, causing bleeding inside his brain. Vajira Hospital doctors conducted an urgent operation on Sondhi which completed before noon. Sondhi is now safe and even able to speak, medical sources said. Sondhi, a core leader of yellow shirts, known also as People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), who seized Bankok airports late last year, has no wounds on his body. His driver, Vayupak Mussi, was also seriously wounded from the attack. Doctors said later that he survived and was now in stable condition. PAD's spokesman Parnthep Pualpongpan said at least two attackers riding on a pickup blocked Sondhi's vehicle who was on Samsen Road, heading to Manager newspaper office in Banglampoo area early Friday morning. The attackers then shot four tyres of Sondhi's vehicle before stepping out of their car and sprayed more bullets on the car. The attack lasted about five minutes and the attackers went back to their pickup which sped away along Tevet Road. Police who rushed to the scene found Sondhi's car riddled with bullets and they could collect more than 100 cartridges of AK-16 and rifles from the scene. Parnthep said Sondhi was informed of reports that he could possible a target of attack, but he simply ignored the warnings. Meanwhile Chamnong Paokorn, 53, a bus driver, said that he was driving his bus past Iamworanut Temple when he saw a blue pickup truck which had no license plate blocked Sondhi's vehicle. Then two men on the back of the pickup then opened fires on the vehicle. Then another vehicle sped to the scene and exchanged fires with the attackers who later escaped the scene. The incident will surely renew political tension which seemed to subside over the past two days after the red-shirted protesters decided to end their Bangkok rally after three days of turmoil in Pattaya and the capital. Sondhi is the leader of the anti-Thaksin movement, but those close to him said he had too many enemies to pinpoint who could have masterminded the assassination attempt. He has heavily criticized the police and the military over their handling of the pro-Thaksin red-shirted protests and called for removal of police and military leaders.
Bangkok, Thailand 16 April 2009
Agencies
Interpol Arrest Warrant For Thaksin
The Thai Government submitted an arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to Interpol, and will issue additional arrest warrants for those accused in insurrection-related incidents in Pattaya and at the Interior Ministry in Bangkok. Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office Satit Wongnongtaey said today (April 16), that the Government would take legal action against core leaders of the anti-government protesters. Warrants have been issued for 37 accused, including ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The Government has submitted arrest warrants to Interpol which has an anti-crime network in 186 countries, including the United Arab Emirates, in order to bring former PM back to Thailand and answer in court criminal charges against him as soon as possible.
See Thaksin's open letter explaining his innocence related to recent events. (Here)
BANGKOK, April 13, 2009
(TNA)
Two Dead, Local Neighborhoods Angry
Thailand's Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva announced on Monday night that the situation in the capital was under control following violent clashes between city residents and anti-govenment protesters which have claimed two lives and left more than 100 injured. In his latest and second televised address of the day, the prime minister said the situation in Bangkok had returned to normal except for the anti government gathering outside Government House. The premier also warned about possible sabotage of people’s property, key establishments and public utilities. The government had therefore instructed all authorities concerned to guard against possible untoward incidents, while rapid mobile units would swiftly respond to any situation, he said. Earlier Monday, Minister to the Prime Minister's Office Sathit Wongnongtoey said a man had been gunned down in Bangkok's Nang Lerng area after a street gunbattle with the anti-government protesters. The man identified as Mr. Pom, 54, was among local residents who clashed with anti-government protesters, Mr. Sathit told a local television station, adding that red-shirt protesters had fired at the residents, also injuring two other people. A private hospital later said a 19-year-old man had died from gunshot wounds and five others were injured. The deadly violence occurred after Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban appealed to the Thai public to stay vigilant, as he feared red-shirted protesters might plan to unleash yet more rioting Monday night. The latest injury toll from the day's violence was reported at 113 people, including soldiers. Addressing the nation through telecast, Deputy Prime Minister Suthep who’s in charge of security chronicled violent incidents and riots by the Red Shirts seeking ouster of the government, starting from disruption of the ASEAN summit meetings in Pattaya on April 11, the attack on Mr. Nipon Prompan, secretary-general to the Prime Minister at the Interior Ministry on Sunday and blockades in several of Bangkok’s major streets. Mr. Suthep commended the performance of law enforcement officials who have successfully worked together to seize the roads back from protesters, without fatalities. “Despite these efforts to this evening, the government remains concerned. We would like therefore to inform the people in Bangkok that we are afraid rioters may unleash acts of sabotage such as arson, bomb attacks in many areas. The people can help by being the government’s eyes and ears, so that we can work better. Still, there is no need to panic. We just want to exercise maximum caution,” he said. The protesters earlier retreated to gather outside the gates of Government House following a day of clashes with security forces which injured more than 100 people, while troops secured key intersections in the capital. Prior to Mr. Suthep’s address to the nation, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra gave an interview to CNN, accusing the government of covering up “deaths” among protesters as a result of security operations. Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva earlier asserted that no one died in the military operation to open traffic to the public early Monday. The premier also urged protesters at Government House to return home to let the responsible government personnel to carry out their duties as the government will try to ease the tensions and bring back peace. "If you want to help the government to bring peace back to our country, you can go back to your homes so we can create a good, strong, peaceful society together," said the prime minister. In Washington, the United States said on Monday it condemned the "unacceptable violence" by anti-government protesters in Thailand, according to the Agence France Presse. "We're watching the situation in Thailand very closely and condemn... this unacceptable violence by the protesters," AFP quoted the State Department spokesman Robert Wood as saying. He said the United States urged the "protesters and their leaders to forswear additional ... use of violence, to exercise their right to assembly, but... to do so ... peacefully." (TNA)
BANGKOK, April 13, 2009
(TNA)
Shinawatra-Owned LPG Gas Truck Threat As Bomb
Patients in hospital, residents of a densely-occupied low-income housing estate, patrons of a upscale shopping mall, and the ruling Democrat party headquarters were all at risk at midday Monday (See Thai language report) as increasingly violent anti-government protesters fielded fully-loaded liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker trucks for possible use as mobile bombs. As fighting continues between government security forces and red-shirt activists from the UDD for control of Bangkok’s main traffic arteries at Din Daeng intersection, firefighting personnel throughout the capital are on full alert following the red-clad activists seizure of at least three LPG tanker trucks, parking one at Democrat Party headquarters beside Vichaiyuth Hospital, one at a government housing estate and the other at the King Power Shopping Complex. At Din Daeng intersection, gunshots were heard at noon as military and police continued to move against red-shirted protesters. A suspected red-shirt guard was arrested and protesters ran towards Rajaparop intersection while the army regained the Din Daeng intersection. Bangkok Disaster Prevention and Mitigation chief Niyom Karnasuta said Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) permanent secretary Pongsak Semsan had ordered the BMS’s firefighting fleet on standby as red-clad United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) threaten to open a gas cylinder's valve. Residents of Din Daeng flats were alarmed earlier when UDD protesters drove a second LPG truck into their compound. Protesters ordered residents to evacuate their homes immediately, with residents believing that the protesters would explode the gas tank. One LPG tanker is parked at the estate compound near the scene of Monday’s pre-dawn clash between the UDD protesters and the military and police. Mr. Niyom said the Public Health Ministry should coordinate with the hospital and prepare to evacuate patients if the protesters open the gas container's valve. However, the BMA disaster chief said he believed the hospital has safety measures in place for its patients. Another LPG tanker was also seized and parked inside the King Power Shopping Complex near Victory Monument and the Skytrain, but officials have already moved the truck from the compound.
(TNA)
Well-Known Rabble Rouser Arrested
"Daeng," or Papatchanan Chingin, seen at
Lady Mo statue area prior to
burning a coffin
in effigy that offended the monarchy.
12 April 2009
the Korat Post
Papatchanan Chingin, or 'Aunt Daeng,' finds herself accused of lèse majesté. According to local reports, military arrived at her home in central Korat City to take her for questioning. A subsequent report now indicates that she was indeed placed under arrest and is currently in jail waiting complete investigation for lese majeste. Generally, under Thai criminal law, such accused persons can be held for a maximum of 84 days at twelve day extensions without charge while the investigation is taking place. It is also not likely that Chingin will receive the benefit of bail as she was witnessed in public by a large number of people in an act considered extremely disrespectful to the monarchy. She has claimed over the radio that she meant General Prem, but even if she did the act of using "His Majesty" as an address to someone so close to the king seems highly inappropriate at best.
Police Arrest Privy Councilor Plotters
Police arrested Maj Thienchai Muangchantuek at an army camp on Tuesday night for allegedly masterminding a plot to assasinate Privy Councillor Chanchai Likhitjittha.
The arrest came after three men who were earlier held in connection with the plot implicated the major as the mastermind. The arrested men told the investigators that a group of military officers wanted to instigate turmoil ahead of today's rally by the red shirts, according to the source. The three were Kamik Sukkanjanakas, 33, Panupong Rattanapaiboon, 32 and Sakchai Lim, 29. They were described as the gunman, the driver of the getaway motorcycle, and the contractor. Chanchai, a former president of the Supreme Court, was accused by ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra of plotting the 2006 coup against him along with other senior judges and a few privy councillors. Following his retirement, Chanchai became justice minister in the post-coup government of Surayud Chulanont. Under the royal command, he was appointed to the Privy Council in 2008. General Jongrak Chuthanont, deputy national police chief, yesterday told a press conference the three suspects had confessed. He said the arrested suspects were found to be in possession of a pistol and ammunition, and a motorcycle. The alleged gunman told police he was hired for Bt130,000 and was told the target was an embezzling businessman. Police said the suspected gunman was taken into custody after being spotted on Monday night casing Chanchai's home at Soi Suksawat 66, in Samut Prakan's Phra Pradaeng district. According to the source, police managed to break the assassination plot after being alerted by an informant who got access to Chanchai's picture and his car licence number given to the hitman's team. After news of the assassination plot, national police chief General Patcharawat Wongsuwan yesterday ordered extra police protection for Chanchai and other senior figures accused by Thaksin of plotting the coup against him, the source said. Chanchai, speaking at his home, said yesterday he was unaware of any motive for the alleged bid on his life. He said he was told of the plot during the Privy Council meeting earlier in the day. The privy councillor said he was not worried about the plot and he would not take extra precautions following the incident. Two policemen were dispatched to provide security to the former court president at his home.
4 April 2009
Agency Reports
On Friday 3 April 2009, the Thai Criminal Court with police assistance found Mr. Subvicha Thakhor guilty of endangering national security by placing material offensive to right-wing elements claiming to protect the Thai monarchy. Despite the human rights violations inherent in such sentences, and over the advice of the Thai monarch, fundamentalist pro-monarchy forces pursue relentless prosecution against those who they deem offensive.
The Nation Reports...
By Kesinee Tangkhio
The Nation
Published on April 4, 2009
A man was yesterday sentenced to 10 years in jail for posting on the Internet doctored images mocking certain members of the royal family. Ads by Google Amari Atrium Hotel Located near subway station of New Petchburi Road. Real-time booking! www.Amari.com/Atrium Koh Chang Beach Hotel Seaview rooms for everyone right on Koh Chang's Lonely Beach, Thailand www.SiamBeachResort.in.th Thailand Real Estate Ultimate Legal Guide for Buyers Free Download for 15 Page Report Siam-Legal.com/Attorneys-Solicitors The Criminal Court found Suwicha or Chinnapat Thakho, a 34-year-old resident of Nakhon Phanom province, guilty of acting in contempt of the monarchy. The defendant was found to have violated the Penal Code, the Constitution and the Computer Crime Act. According to the lawsuit, the defendant on many occasions in August 2008 uploaded onto the Internet altered pictures of unidentified members of the royal family, in contempt of the monarchy. He was arrested in January and later confessed to the crime. The court yesterday gave an initial penalty of 20 years' imprisonment but later reduced it by half due to the defendant's confession. Suwicha, taken from the Bangkok Remand Prison in inmate attire to attend the verdict reading, wept with his parents and relatives from Nakhon Phanom upon hearing the ruling. See Manager Online Thai language report here.
In a callous observation of the sentencing, ultra-monarchist channel ASTV anchors on 3 April 2009 observed that he got what he deserved...
29 March 2009
The Nation, Agencies
Nakhon Ratchasima - An air-conditioned bus heading to Bangkok overturned and crashed with a pick-up truck and another passenger bus of the same company, killing 17 people and injuring over 50 others Friday. The drivers of the two buses of Ratchasima Tour and three persons inside the pick-up were among those killed in the accident, which happened on the Mittraparb Road in Pak Chong district at 6 pm on Friday. Witnesses told police that the bus, who was heading to Bangkok, lost control on the slippery downhill road and the bus eventually overturned and crossed the road island into the opposite lane, crashing with the pikc-up truck and another bus, which was travelling from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima.
22 March 2009
Translated from Manager Online
Region 3 Police Stop Online Casino Operation
Region 3 Police on 22 March 2009 swept down on a Surin-based online casino operation, apprehending five staff and gamblers who were involved in the illegal online business.
Media reports indicated that based on a search warrant issued by the Surin court, Region 3 police entered an illegal online gambling in Surin province and arrested staff and gamblers involved, including the chief organizer. Police are certain that the operation has direct ties to a Cambodia-based gambling network, located near Osamet along the permanent Thai-Cambodian border. The arrest followed investigations by police based on reports that at "Apsa Store" located at 65 Soi Sa Nong Bua, Surin municipal district, had opened as a front gaming store but inside had available real-time high-speed internet connected with high-speed casino networks in Cambodia. Live high-quality transmission speed was being used in the store. In interrogating those arrested police found that three were staff looking after the store. When police made the arrests, the main casino kingpin was not in. Police charges against those arrested were operating a gambling establishment. Police seized four computers at the scene as well as gambling accessories and proof of gambling.
"A Sustainable Economy"
Cross-section of new Korat 18 km ring road.
20 March 2008
Nakhonratchasima Manager Online
Thai Army Region 2 staff led a group of reportedly 4,000 Thai citizens in planting grass along the side of the Stage 1 Korat Ring Road, in commemmoration of His Majesty the king's many contributions to society.
On 20 march 2009 media reports indicated that in the area of Stage 1 of the Korat Ring Road, tambol Klang, Sung Nern district, Nakhonratchasima province, Lt. General Wiboonsakdi Neephlan, Army Region 2 commander, presided over the opening of the project "Fight Economic Crisis With Sufficiency Economy: Celebration By Planting Elephant Grass in Celebration" whereby Mr. Prajak Suwanphakdi, governor of Nakhonratchasima Province, togehter with heads of government agencies, military, police, businessmen, politicians, students and members of the general public totally over 4,000 all joined together in planting some 520,000 tons of grass along gthe eighteen kilometer stretch of bypass road. In addition to the ceremony, there were also exhibits on elephant grass, soil, water, fertilizer, arrangement of a sufficiency economy celebration, composting and more.
16 March 2009
Nakhonratchasima News Center
Translated from Manager Online
Non Daeng District police in Korat seize more than 200 kilograms of marijuana.
When police set up a checkpoint on the Friendship Highway side entering Korat City, avoiding the checkpoint barrier and losing control of the pickup truck carrying the MJ. The truck rolled over revealing the marijuana carried underneath vegetables. The bed of the truck was covered with fresh vegetables to make it appear as if there was nothing unusual. The truck driver disappeared scot-free.
Non Daeng District police in Korat seize more than 200 kilograms of marijuana. When police set up a checkpoint on the Friendship Highway side entering Korat City, avoiding the checkpoint barrier and losing control of the pickup truck carrying the MJ. The truck rolled over revealing the marijuana carried underneath vegetables. The bed of the truck was covered with fresh vegetables to make it appear as if there was nothing unusual. The truck driver disappeared scot-free.
ศูนย์ข่าวนครราชสีมา - ตร.สภ.โนนแดงโคราช ตรวจยึดกัญชาอัดแท่งได้กว่า 200 กก.ขณะตั้งด่านตรวจบน ถ.มิตรภาพ ฝั่งขาเข้าตัวเมืองโคราช คนร้ายขับรถแหกด่านก่อนเสียหลักพลิกคว่ำตกถนน เผยยัดกัญชาไว้ด้านล่างกระบะรถและเอาผักสดปิดทับด้านบนเพื่ออำพรางสายตา จนท.ส่วนคนขับรถขนกัญชา หนีลอยนวล
Today, 16 March 2009, in the area in front of Korat’s provincial police headquarters, Pol. Maj. General Chatrakanok Khiewsaengsong, Commander of Nakhonratchasima Provincial Police, together with Police Col. Somphak Akrasaa, Commander of Nong Daeng district police, joined together in giving a press conference on the search and seizure that they had found 210 packages of dried marijuana weighing 210 kilograms.
วันนี้ (16 มี.ค.) ที่บริเวณด้านหน้า กองบังคับการตำรวจภูธรจังหวัดนครราชสีมา อ.เมือง จ.นครราชสีมา พล.ต.ต.ฉัตรกนก เขียวแสงส่อง ผู้บังคับการตำรวจภูธรจังหวัด (ผบก.ภ.จว.) นครราชสีมา พร้อม พ.ต.อ.สมพรรค อักขราสา ผกก.สภ.โนนแดง ร่วมกันแถลงข่าวการตรวจยึดกัญญา ได้ของกลางเป็นกัญชาอัดแท่งจำนวน 210 ห่อ รวมน้ำหนัก 210 กิโลกรัม
Regarding the seizure, it was discovered that from early this morning Non Daeng police set up a checkpoint and barrier in Non Daeng district on Friendship Highway leading into Korat. They discovered an Isuzu pickup truck, Bangkok license plate no. Thor Ngo 3984 carrying a bed full of fresh vegetables, and thus called for the truck to stop for inspection. But the cited truck refused to stop and avoided the checkpoint barrier to then disappear.
ทั้งนี้ สืบเนื่องจากเมื่อเช้ามืดวันนี้ เจ้าหน้าที่ สภ.โนนแดง ได้ตั้งจุดตรวจบริเวณหน้าตู้ยามโนนตาเถร ถ.มิตรภาพ อ.โนนแดง จ.นครราชสีมา ฝั่งขาเข้าตัวเมืองนครราชสีมา พบรถยนต์กระบะ ยี่ห้ออีซูซุ หมายเลขทะเบียน ถง 3984 กรุงเทพมหานคร บรรทุกผักมาเต็มคันรถจึงเรียกตรวจ แต่รถคันดังกล่าวไม่ยอมหยุดขับรถแหกด่านเจ้าหน้าที่หลบหนี
Police officers then drove pursuit vehicles after the fleeing truck, following until KM 70-71 of Tambol Tonyaoyai, Non Daeng district, Nakhonratchasima province. There they discovered the damaged and overturned pickup truck , with its load scattered all over but did not find the driver. From an inspection of the back of the truck police discovered 210 packages each one kilogram of marijuana. The marijuana was wrapped in white fertilizer sacks with Vietnamese writing on the front. The bags were also externally wrapped with black plastic, all hidden underneath the bed of the truck to conceal from police check.
At this time police officials are pursuing the escaped driver to proceed with the case. As to the marijuana, it is expected that it was imported from a friendly neighboring country and its value is estimated to be ten million Baht.
เจ้าหน้าที่ตำรวจประจำด่านตรวจจึงขับรถสายตรวจไล่ติดตาม เมื่อมาถึง กม.ที่ 70-71 ต.ดอนยาวใหญ่ อ.โนนแดง จ.นครราชสีมา พบรถยนต์คันดังกล่าวพลิกคว่ำลงข้างทาง สิ่งของที่บรรทุกมากระจัดกระจายได้รับความเสียหาย ไม่พบคนขับรถ จากการตรวจค้นด้านท้ายกระบะพบกัญชาอัดแท่งจำนวน 210 ห่อๆ ละ 1 กิโลกรัม รวม 210 กิโลกรัม บรรจุอยู่ในกระสอบปุ๋ยสีขาว เขียนด้านหน้าเป็นภาษาเวียดนาม และพันรอบด้านนอกด้วยพลาสติกสีดำ ซุกซ่อนอยู่ด้านล่างกระบะส่วนด้านบนมีผักสดชนิดต่างๆ ปิดทับเอาไว้ เพื่ออำพรางสายเจ้าหน้าที่ตำรวจ
ขณะนี้เจ้าหน้าที่อยู่ระหว่างการติดตามจับกุมตัวคนขับรถคันดังกล่าว มาดำเนินคดี สำหรับกัญชาอัดแท่งดังกล่าวคาดว่าน่าจะนำเข้ามาจากประเทศเพื่อนบ้าน โดยคิดเป็นมูลค่ากว่า 10 ล้านบาท
Prem Presides Over Water Park Opening
Translated From: Nakhonratchasima News Center/Manager Online
See Thai language report and more photos on Manager Online here.
14 March 2009
Northeast Thailand’s largest water park was opened yesterday, 14 March 2009, amid big fanfare with His Excellency Prem Tinsulalonda, chair of the Privy Council, presiding. Among the water attractions at the new facility at Korat Zoo (Thai language link) Zoological Park (English) and more (w/map) is a 75 meter long water slide. At 10:30 hrs., at the Korat Zoo, Tambol Chaiyamonkol, General Prem Tinsulalonda, Chairman of the Privy Council and statesman, presided over the opening ceremony for the new Korat Zoo Waterpark. See headlines for details. Separately, Thai students at Oxford petition prime minister here...from Prachatai.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of environment and Natural Resources, Army Region 2 commander Lt. General Viboonsakdi Neephlan, Region 3 commissioner Pol. Col. Krysapha Phankhongcheun, Thailand’s Director of Zoos, the governor of Korat Mr. Prajak Suwanphakdee and other high ranking officials, as well as members of the general public and press, attended the opening. In this, the Korat Waterpark “Isaan Lake” is the largest water park in northeast Thailand, built for fifty five million Baht on over ten rai of land, behind the zoo’s children’s zoo area. There is a squid slider 75 meters long with a surrounding water canal. Both children and adults can use the facilities. Colorful decorations and artificial mushrooms and more greet visitors to this new facility. The Korat Zoo was built based on a council of Ministers’ resolution during the administration of Prime Minister Chatchai Choonhavan on 23 May 1988, on a 545 rai parcel of land and officially opened to the public on 14 December 1996, also presided over by General Prem. Now open for some twelve years, the zoo has serviced over 700,000 visitors and guests. In all of this, the Korat Zoo is the Safari of the Northeast, since its main theme is African animals, but also includes wild animals of Thailand. Currently there are over 1,600 wild animals in the zoo. The zoo has also been deeply involved in wild animal breeding, with the zoo having gained a reputation with breeding the Thai Crane, the only and first time ever bred in a zoo in the world. The Thai Crane is one of fifteen protected wildlife species that had been regarded as extinct. The breeding program has been so successful that currently over 100 Thai cranes have been bred. After the opening of the facility, General Prem and entourage sat on the mini-train, toured the zoo for an hour and then returned to Bangkok.
"Mother fu..er!" was what 'Daeng' said to vent some steam at this website's webmaster. 7 March 2009 at Thao Suranaree pavilion.
See Youtube video of "Daeng" using the M.F. word at Lady Mo statue on 7 March 2009. Or go to Youtube frankganderson and check for Daeng video. The shocking curses are said by some to be typical of this particular radio hostess. The moment this photo was snapped, Daeng called the photographer (yours truly) Mother fuc....". She also repeated former defamation that photographer's wife is Muslim. So what!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AHRC-STM-051-2009 March 6, 2009
A Statement by the Asian Human Rights Commission THAILAND:
AHRC strongly condemns police raid on news outlet According to an announcement issued today on the website of Prachatai, one of the few independent and outspoken media outlets operating in Thailand, "On March 6, at 3 pm, seven police officers visited Prachatai office in Bangkok, showing a search warrant and an arrest warrant for Chiranuch Premchaiporn, Prachatai Director. She is charged with the offense according to Article 15 of the Computer Crime Act. She has refused to answer any questions, and is waiting for her lawyer." The Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) has confirmed this information. According to the relevant section of the 2007 Computer Crime Act read with section 14, any service provider consenting to any act that involves, among other things, the importing of "false data" likely to "cause damage" to the public or the country's security, or likely to cause "public panic" is liable to a jail term of up to five years and a fine of up to a hundred thousand Thai baht. The AHRC condemns this police raid and the issuing of the arrest warrant for the Prachatai director in the strongest possible terms. There can be little room for doubt that this raid is part of the systematic ultraconservative agenda since the 2006 army coup to intimidate and silence critics, human rights defenders and social activists in Thailand. In fact, the odious law under which the raid and arrest warrant have been issued is one of the main planks in the platform designed to be built over the heads of dissenters in Thailand that was given effect by an assembly of military appointees in 2007. The AHRC expresses its strong support for the staff of Prachatai, for the work that it is committed to doing as an independent media agency working under very difficult conditions and at a time of dramatic social and political change in Thailand; a time when outspokenness and sincerity are the rarest and most valuable commodities. The AHRC calls upon all regional and international media organisations, human rights groups, and the UN Human Rights Council, which is opening its tenth session in Geneva, and UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of expression to join in expressing outrage at this latest attack on freedom of speech and thought in Thailand, and call for the immediate cessation of arrests and threats, against Prachatai and all other media and human rights organizations there.
About AHRC: The Asian Human Rights Commission is a regional non-governmental organisation monitoring and lobbying human rights issues in Asia. The Hong Kong-based group was founded in 1984.
FCCT Panel Discussion On Missing Lawyer
Working Group on Justice for Peace presents 5th Anniversary Disappearance of Somchai Neelapaichit
A Panel Discussion Wednesday, March 11, at 8:00 pm No cover charge Somchai Neelapaichit has been missing since 12 March 2004, when he was last seen in Bangkok being forced into a car by a group of men. He was Chairman of the Muslim Lawyers Association and Vice-Chairman of the Human Rights Committee of the Law Society of Thailand at the time of his disappearance, when he was also representing five Muslims accused of terrorism-related activities in the Southern provinces. Five years on, the investigation into the circumstances of his enforced disappearance remains incomplete and the whereabouts of his body is still unknown. His wife and four children remain in the dark as to what happened. On 12 January 2006, the Criminal Court convicted a senior police officer of coercion and assault – but not of the enforced disappearance itself – and was sentenced to three years imprisonment despite evidence presented at trial indicating that a more serious crime was committed. The police officer was released on bail pending his appeal, which is still outstanding. The fifth anniversary of a person’s disappearance takes on particular significance in Thailand as at this point the person is considered legally dead under civil law. The series of events commemorating Somchai Neelapaichit’s disappearance will highlight the continual pursuit of truth and justice of this particular case, underscore the abhorrent nature of enforced disappearances, and represent public and high-profile efforts at seeking justice for an emblematic case in the fight against impunity in Thailand. Speakers will be: - Mrs. Angkhana Neelapaichit - Kraisak Choonhavan - Justice Elizabeth Evatt
Past Monk Murder Case Still Smolders
The Late Activist Phra Suphoj Suwajo
On 2 March 2009, media reported on progress related to the murder case of Phra Suwajo, former president of the Mettatham Foundation, located on a 1,500 rai plot in Tambol Sansai, Fang District, Chiangmai province. The latest reports were that Phra Kittisakdi Kittisophano disclosed that at approximately eight pm the evening before, reports were received from local villagers that some burning was taking place in a protected forest reserve of about 200 rai. The villagers said that there was also what appeared to be light from flashlights in the area just before the fires, and that the fires were not likely caused by nature. They also indicated that the burning had affected some 3,000 teak trees, 1,000 planted banana trees and other naturally growing trees. “At the time of the incident, residents, officials and fire fighters all assisted to combat the flames but the fire spread quickly because of the dry climate, with grass and leaves in the area dry. The fire resulted in loss of some 200 rai of forestry area, and firefighters had hosed water over the area to keep the fire from spreading further. It was not until around midnight that the fire was finally extinguished,” Phra Kittisakdi said. The monk also stated that the cause of the fire was likely from efforts to resurrect the Phra Suphoj murder case, because before this about two weeks ago there was some shooting, several shots at the temple, and a group of men sitting on a pickup truck who had come in asking villagers about what the temple monks were up to. The latest is that TV challen 9 program, “Investigations, the Truth” was broadcast on the air regarding the murder case of Phra Suphoj. After the news was carried, about 7:30 p.m, it was suggested that the cause was that an influential person in the area had encroached onto the forest and was involved in a political conflict. About an hour after the reported conflict allegations the fires began. “This fire it is thought to be a signal in the area that criminals will still employ violence,” Phra Kittisakdi said. Colonel Piyyawat Keunghet, commander of the office of Special Criminal Cases of DSI stated that “Reports were received of fires in the Mettatham Forest. Initially it was thought the incited occurred around eight p.m., after the Channel 9 program, where there was some discussion about the murder case of Phra Suphoj that was possibly connected to forest encroachment and political matters. So at this time DSI staff have been told to speed up investigations and it is expected that the facts of the fire will be known within 1-2 days.”
28 February 2009
the Korat Post & Manager Online
Parliamentarians Visit milk Factory As Parents Remain Wary
Udorn milk plant seemingly cleaned up for photo.
Milk plant worker sanitizes milk handling equipment at plant.
วันนี้(26 ก.พ.) เวลา13.00 น. นายพรศิลป์ อินทะเคหะ เภสัชกรระดับ 7 ประจำกลุ่มงานคุ้มครองผู้บริโภคและเภสัชสาธารณสุข สำนักงานสาธารณสุขจังหวัดอุดรฯ พร้อมเจ้าเหน้าที่สาธารณสุข เข้าตรวจสอบคุณภาพนม ของบริษัท อุดรแดรี่ฟูดส์ จำกัด เลขที่34/6 ม.5 บ้านดงอุดม ต.หนองบัว อ.เมืองอุดร หลังเด็กนักเรียน ชั้นป.4 ร.ร.บ้านหนองสะแก ต.แหลมทอง อ.หนองบุญมาก จ.นครราชสีมา 24คน ดื่มนม เกิดอาการปวดท้อง คลื่นไส้ และอาเจียน ถูกหามส่งร.พ. ทำให้มีการหยุดระงับส่งนมไปที่เรียนในขณะนี้ 5 จังหวัด แล้ว
On 26 February 2009 at 13:00 hrs., Mr. Phornsilp Inthakhaha, a Grade 7 pharmacist assigned to the Office of Consumer Protection and Public Health Pharmacists of the Udornthani Provincial Public Health Department, together with Public Health staff, quality inspected Udorn Dairy Food Co. Ltd., at 34/6 Moo 5, Tambol Nong Bua, Meung district, Udornthani, after 24 Prathom 4 schoolchildren at Baan Nong Sakae, Tambol Laemthong, nong Boonmaak District, Nakhonratchasima consumed milk and developed stomach aches, became nauseous and vomited and were taken to the hospital. This caused the current interruption of milk supplies to schools in five provinces.
นายพรศิลป์ เปิดเผยว่า ได้มาดูขั้นตอนในการผลิตก็คือ ตั้งแต่น้ำนมดิบมาอย่าไร การปรับอุณหภูมิ อุณหมิฆ่าเชื้อเท่าไร การบรรจุใส่ถุงหรือกล่อง ถูกตามขั้นตอนหรือไม่ รวมไปถึงกับขั้นตอนในการลำเลียงส่ง ส่วนในการนำนมตัวอย่างไปทำการตรวจนั้น ต้องส่งไปยัง ห้องแล็ป ที่ศูนย์วิทยาศาสตร์การแพทย์ จ.อุดรธานี ว่า ในเนื้อนม มีสารอะไรเจือปนหรือไม่ ต้องใช้ระยะเวลา จำนวน 7 วัน ถึงทราบผล
Mr. Phornsilp disclosed that the group had arrived to view the production process, that is, from when raw milk is first delivered, temperature controls, what temperature bacteria are killed at, filling of milk bags or cartons, every stages up to the distribution process. As to taking of test samples, they have to be sent to the laboratory testing center at Udornthani to determine what chemicals may be mixed in the milk or not, and that seven days are needed to determine the results.
นายพรศิลป์ กล่าวว่า หากตรวจพบเจอ สารปนเปื่อนอยู่ในนม ที่เป็นอันตรายต่อผู้บริโภค ทางสาธารณสุข สามารถดำเนินตามกฏหมาย ตามมาตรา 6 (7) พ.ศ.2522 พ.ร.บ. คุ้มครองผู้บริโภค โทษ ปรับไม่เกิน10,000 บาท ให้หยุดการผลิตช่วงคราว ได้ทันที และให้ปรับแก้ไขการผลิตต่อไป
Mr. Phornsilp stated that if any contaminants are discovered in the milk that are hazardous to consumers that the Ministry of Public Health will proceed according to the law via Section 6 (7) dated 1979 of the Consumer Protection Act, which calls for penalties of not more than 10,000 Baht and for immediate temporary suspension of production and that a solution must be effected before production is restarted.
ด้านนายบัญชา ธิติวัฒนการ กรรมการผู้จัดการ บริษัท อุดรแดรี่ฟูดส์ กล่าวว่าทางบริษัท ได้จัดส่งนมไปตามโรงเรียนต่างๆในพื้นที่ 5 จังหวัด ประกอบด้วย จ.อุดรธานี , จ.หนองบัวลำภู ,จ.หนองคาย ,จ.สกลนคร และ จ.นครราชสีมา และยืนยันว่าในขบวนการผลิตของเราได้มาตราฐาน เพราะเราทำการตรวจสอบทุกขั้นตอนอยู่เสมอ ในส่วนนมดิบ เป็นผู้จัดส่งมา มีสหกรณ์ปฎิรูปเมืองเลย , สหกรณ์ ปฏิรูปที่ดิน จ.หนองบัวลำภู และวิสากิจชุมชนปกช่อง ซึ่งทางเราเองสามารถผลิตนมได้ต่อวัน จำนวน 7-8 หมื่นถุง
Mr. Bancha Thithiwattanakarn, Managing Director of Udorn Dairy Food Co. Ltd. Stated that his company had delivered milk to various schools in five provinces, which were Udornthani, Nong Bua Lamphu, nong khai, Sakon Nakhon, and Nakhonratchasima, and assured that the company’s production process met standards because “we have inspections at every stage of the production process.” He also indicated that the company was able to produce from 70,000-80,000 bags of milk daily.
สำหรับการจัดส่งนั้น เรามีรถห้องเย็นควบคุมอุณหภูมิ ซึ่งมีอุณหภูมิอยุ่ระหว่าง 0 องศา ไปยังคลังสินค้า แต่ละจังหวัด ส่วนรถที่มารับนมที่คลังสินค้า ส่งไปยังโรงเรียน เราไม่ได้เป็นผู้ควบคุมดูแล อย่างไรก็ตามต้องรอผลตรวจ ระหว่าง สสจ.อุดรธานี และ สจจ.จ.นครราชสีมา ต่อไป
As to delivery, “We have refrigerated vehicles controlling temperatures which are held at zero Centigrade up to delivery to distribution centers, but each province where delivery vehicles then pick up the milk for further distribution, we do not control this stage of the process. However, we have to wait for the analysis results from the centers in Udorn and Nakhonratchasima.”
Opium Fields Destroyed in Loei Province
วัันนี้ (26 ก.พ.) เมื่อเวลา 12.00 น.นายพิสุทธิ์ บุษยพรรณพงศ์ นายอำเภอด่านซ้าย จังหวัดเลย พร้อมด้วย พ.ต.อ.สุภัทร ม่วงสมัย ผกก.ตชด.24 อุดรธานี พ.ต.อ.จุลฤทธิ์ จุลกะ ผกก.สภ.อ.ด่านซ้าย นายเปี่ยมบุญ เทพศุภร ผู้อำนวยการสำนักงานปราบปรามยาเสพติด สหรัฐ (DEA) ประจำประเทศไทย กำลังอส. กำลังเจ้าหน้าที่ตำรวจภูธร อ.ด่านซ้าย ตชด.247 ด่านซ้าย จำนวน 50 นาย พร้อมด้วยเฮลิคอปเตอร์ จากค่าย ตชด.24 จากจังหวัดอุดรธานี เข้าทำลายไร่ฝิ่นประมาณ 2 ไร่ที่ลักลอบปลูก บนบริเวณภูสามหมื่น เขตท้องที่บ้านหมากแข้ง หมู่ที่ 4 ต.กกสะทอน อ.ด่านซ้าย จ.เลย เขตรอยต่อพื้นที่บ้านภูทับเบิก อ.หล่มเก่า จ.เพชรบูรณ์
On 26 February 2009 at 12:00 hrs., Mr. Phisutr Butthayaphanpongse, Dan Sai district officer, Loei province, together with Col Suphan Muangsamai, Area 24 superintendent Udornthani and others, including a US DEA representative, and a total of fifty officials, arrived via helicopter from Udornthani province to destroy an illegally planted opium field approximately 2 rai in area in a hilly area of the province, located at Moo 4, Tambol Koksathon, Dan Sai district, Loei province. Officials disclosed during the visit that the opium was likely planted by Hmong people for personal use, but that the field had to be destroyed and the matter followed up otherwise there was a possibility of the product entering the drug market. The district official indicated that the Hmong had been permitted into the area over the last ten years, and when they came in they planted opium for their use.
จากการเข้าทำลายไร่ฝิ่นดังกล่าว พบต้นฝิ่นปลูกเป็นแปลงหย่อมๆ แปลงละ 1-2 งาน มีร่องรอยการกรีดไปบ้าง และบางส่วนที่กำลังออกดอกสะพรั่งรอการกรีด จากการคำนวณ ถ้านำไปผลิตจะได้ฝิ่นประมาณ 4 กิโลกรัม มูลค่า 4 แสนบาท นายอำเภอด่านซ้าย เปิดเผยว่า เป็นเวลาเกือบ 10 ปี ที่ปล่อยให้ ชาวเขาเผ่าม้ง นอกเขตจังหวัดเลย เข้ามาลักลอบปลูกฝิ่น แต่จาการสังเกต คาดว่า จะปลูกเพื่อเสพเพียงอย่างเดียว เราต้องตัดตอนพวกนี้ เพราะหากปล่อยไปอาจพัฒนากลายเป็นทำไร่ฝิ่นเพื่อการค้า ถึงเวลานั้นคงยากต่อการปราบปราม และเป็นที่สังเกตอีกอย่างหนึ่งว่า ที่อำเภอด่านซ้าย เป็นพื้นที่แห่งเดียวในภาคอีสาน ที่สามารถปลูกฝิ่นได้เจริญงอกงามดี
Pardoned From Intensely
Unjust Sentence
Report From: Sydney MorningHerald, 21 February 2009 (here)
Australian author released from jail
* Tom Reilly *
February 21, 2009 - 10:53AM
"Australian author Harry Nicolaides, who was jailed in Thailand for criticising the country's royal family in a book, is on his way home after being granted a royal pardon. Nicolaides walked free from prison yesterday after Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej issued a royal decree on Wednesday, his brother Forde Nicolaides said. The 41-year-old author spent five months in a Thai jail after being arrested last August for insulting the Thai monarchy in his book Verisimilitude. He was sentenced to three years' jail last month after pleading guilty to 'lese majeste' - the crime of criticising the royals. His release ends a "six-month nightmare" for the family, his brother said. "It's great news for everyone but this is a great relief," he said. "Harry's imprisonment is something that's consumed the family for so long and we wish we could have had him released sooner. "Harry was ecstatic when he heard the news and is very grateful to the King of Thailand. He needs a lot of work on his health, which has deteriorated, and we're just delighted to have him back with us." His lawyer Mark Dean said this morning the pardon was granted on Thursday night and Nicolaides was deported from Thailand at midnight. "The Australian Government and the Thai Government have been working together very closely on the resolution of Harry's case," he told ABC Radio. "The various steps that had to be taken in Thailand were expedited in this case, resulting in the King being able to grant th pardon last Thursday." Nicolaides is expected to arrive in Melbourne this afternoon. But any planned celebrations will be tempered following the hospitalisation of his mother Despina, who suffered a stroke a fortnight ago. Forde Nicolaides said his brother would be taken straight to hospital to see their mother, adding the family would still toast his freedom at the earliest opportunity. "Dad is ecstatic that he's got another son back home to help,'' Mr Nicolaides said. "I spoke to Harry last night, he rang me from the airport and assured me he is reasonably fit, despite his ordeal. "He is in good spirits and is looking forward to arriving home - he cannot wait to see his family.'' Nicolaides was arrested in late August and locked up in jail before pleading guilty last month to lese majeste in 12 lines he wrote in his 2005 novel, which referred to an unspecified crown prince's love life. With AAP"
19 February 2009
Translated from Manager Online, 18 February 2009
Suicide Attempt By Former Accident Victim
On 18 February 2009, Korat news sources reported that at 09:30 in the morning, an incident occurred on a 130 tall high-tension powerline structure. According to sources, Mr. Amnat Khiankhokkruat, aged 22, had climbed the structure and threatened to end his life by jumping off.
Given the situation, rescue and other units were dispatched to the scene and placed a large air-filled mattress on the ground in case the distraught man followed through on his threat. Huk 31, police and provincial rescue units were on the scene to deal with the situation.
According to Mrs. Norm Khiankhokkruat, aged 60, the young man, her nephew who lives in the same village as she, had some three or four years prior been involved in an accident where he suffered a head injury. Mrs. Khiankhokkruat indicated that while Mr. Amnat had suffered seizures in the past, that he had never threatened to end his life or climb a power structure before. She also stated that Amnat had had frequent female visitors to his home, one of whom had just parted company with him that morning. The aunt also indicated that Mr. Amnat had undergone psychiatric care at Korat’s Psychiatric Hospital, and had stopped because it was thought his problems were dealt with and expenses for care were high.
Witnesses on the scene indicated that Mrs. Norm had several times shouted up at her nephew perched on the power structure to climb back down but without result.
After some four hours had passed in the high heat, Mr. Amnat shouted down to those looking on asking for cigarettes and water. These were carried up to him about halfway up the structure. After some conversation with rescue staff and his brother, Amnat climbed back down to the ground.
New City Hall Complex
Translated from Korat Hiclass Business Newspaper
Mr. Soontorn Yongsuwannakul, Head of Korat’s Utilities and Planning Department, indicated that the new city hall complex will be built around the existing building. The total area for the U-shaped nine storey construction is 17.8 rai (7.12 acres). Said to be built to conserve spending, the complex layout will be as follows: first floor with 5,200 square meters space forbanks, shopping outlets and restaurants; floors 2-3 an estimated 10,400 square meters for 500 car parking; floors 4-8 for consolidated provincial government offices for 3,500 people with an estimate floor space of 36,200 square meters. The entire construction is scheduled to cost 360 million Baht and take five years to complete. This new building is only expected to be able to accommodate requirements for 10-15 years because future needs are expected to exceed current planning. For his part, Municipality Treasurer Lt. Prajak somphornchaikit stated that originally this project was under a budget submitted to the province in the past as a design to accommodate at least twenty years in the future use and included many centers for services, etc. He also indicated that currently approval form the local Army Region 2 is being solicited for construction, as building near the existing facility can lead to complications.
Thai Public Relations Department
14 February 2009
Inappropriate Content - "the nation, religion, monarchy, culture, and traditions..."
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm..
The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology has established the Internet Security Operation Center, known in short as ISOC, to monitor the websites it believes present inappropriate content undermining national security. The establishment of the center came after the Prime Minister has appointed a committee to prevent and suppress the presentation of unlawful and inappropriate news and information through information and communication technology. The committee, chaired by the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, consists of representatives from the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Justice, the Special Investigation Department, the Royal Thai Police, the Office of the National Security Council, and the Government Public Relations Department. The committee held its first meeting on February 5, chaired by the ICT Minister, Second Lieutenant Ranongruk Suwanchwee, to set the policy framework for its operations and form a working group for ISOC. The working group for the Center is responsible for monitoring websites carrying inappropriate messages. It comprises ICT officials and personnel from related agencies working together in cracking down on cyber crime. The hotline 1122 is open around the clock to receive complaints and information on the issue. The inappropriate content involves several areas, such as the nation, religion, monarchy, culture, and traditions, including the posting of obscene pictures, sex trade advertisements, and online gambling, which is considered dangerous to children and youth. The Ministry has monitored consistently inappropriate websites and brought cases to the court, which has ordered the suspension of 4,818 URLs. Out of this number, 4,683 URLs contained malicious content concerning the monarchy, 98 URLs regarding obscenity, and 37 URLs involving dishonest advertisements. The ICT Minister said that the presentation of inappropriate content on the Internet would damage not only relevant institutions, organizations, and individuals but also the country’s national security in terms of political, economic, and social conditions. Moreover, it is also against Thailand’s Computer Crime Act B.E. 2550 (2007). According to the law, the perpetrator of an act that is likely to damage computer data or a computer system related to the country’s security, public security, and economic security or public services, or in an act against computer data or a computer system available for public use shall be subject to imprisonment from three years up to 15 years and a fine of 60,000 baht up to 300,000 baht.
Udorn Prepared For Clashes
13 February 2009
Agencies
The Udon Thani governor chaired a meeting of senior officials from relevant state agencies Thursday in a bid to prevent any serious incident during a political concert by the "yellow shirts" on the Valentine's Day. The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) plans to hold its "PAD Caravan for New Politics" concert tomorrow at a public park in the northeastern province. The group has held similar events in other provinces before. Udon Thani is a stronghold of the "red shirts" - people who support ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra's bid to make a political comeback. Some local leaders of the red shirts threatened to obstruct the event.
Nakhon Ratchasima to help agriculturists affected by 2008 floods
10 February 2009
Public Relations Department
Northeastern Nakhon Ratchasima province has set aside 500 million baht budget to help agriculturalists who were victims of flash flloods in 2008, All the money would be transferred to the victims by February 25. Mr. Prajak Suwannapakdee (ประจักษ สุวรรณภักดี), Governor of northeastern Nakhon Ratchasima province, revealed today (February 10) that the province has been rush to aid agriculturists who were affected by flash flood during September to November 2008. Crops of 28 districts were affected with total 785,812 rais of land being damaged. They included 468,740 rais of paddy fields and 15,485 rais of other crops. The Nakhon Ratchasima province's committee helping victims of natural disasters has received 500 million baht budget from the Department of Agricultural Extension, the Ministry of Agricultural and Cooperatives, to mitigate the victims. To help the affected agriculturists, the ministry has scheduled to transfer the money to deposit accounts of the affected agriculturists at the Bank of Agriculture and Agricultural and Cooperatives (BAAC)'s branchces in the province's 28 districts. The province has proceeded distributing 12 million baht to aid 886 victims in Lam Thamenchai district. All the transfer would be done by February 25.
Somchai Neelapaijit
8 February 2009
The Thai 'government,' accent on 'government' because of constant rumors that it's also sort of a stand-in for others, has brought up the issue of Somchai Neelapaijit. (Wiki) (Thai Wiki) (HRW Report) The Muslim lawyer disappeared on 12 March 2004, amidst a Thaksin-led clampdown on human rights, not overly dissimilar to that currently being pedaled by the current Thai government – itself being watched and some say manipulated by armed force personnel and others.
Somchai’s body was never found despite numerous attempts by relatives, family, friends, international human rights groups and others. Like other such cases in Thailand, this one also seems destined for the back burnder in the near future, and to remain unsolved unless powerful vested interests demand the case be solved. This is not expected to happen, however. Conflicting liaisons in Thailand do not make strange bedfellows, and a single disappearance is not of much ado to them. Being implicated is.
On 8 February 2009, Thai prime minister Abhisit Vejajjiva responded to press questions about the Somchai case by indicating that there were 'signals' to delay progress on the case. What that meant was strangely accepted by lack of penetrating further questions. The prime minister, however, indicated that Khunying Pornthip had briefed him on the status of the case.
Roadshow To Restore Thailand's Image
BANGKOK, February 5, 2009
(TNA)
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva left for Tokyo on Wednesday leading a high-powered team of top Thai government officials and Japanese investors in a roadshow designed to restore Thailand's image, battered by political turbulence and a declining economy, as well as to attract critically-needed new foreign investment. Among planned activities during the three-day visit include Mr. Abhisit's address to a gathering of a thousand senior Japanese government officials and businessmen intended to present a fresh view of Thailand as a land of opportunity. This is the first of a series of roadshows, and the prime minister's first trip outside the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries since his administration took power six weeks ago. Thai Industry Minister Charnchai Chairungrueng said earlier that the roadshow is aimed at reassuring foreign investors that normalcy has returned to Thailand and that the government's policy to welcome foreign investment remains intact. The prime minister will also present his government's policy on improving Thailand's economy in both the short- and long-term. During the visit, Mr. Abhisit will meet Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso and the latest developments of the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA) are expected to be on the agenda. According to Thailand's Board of Investment (BoI), Japanese investors are Thailand's largest investment segment. In 2008, Japanese companies sought a total of 324 promotional privileges from the BoI, representing 40 per cent of all total foreign organisations seeking such privileges, with a combined investment of about Bt103 billion, equivalent to 35 per cent of total foreign investment. Most Japanese investment in Thailand is in the automobile and automotive parts, electrical appliances and electronics, and hard disk drive production. The prime minister plans to conduct a trade and investment promotion roadshow in China in late March to expand trade and investment between the two countries. (TNA)
Provincial 'Father' Learns About Local Poverty
1 February 2009
Mukdaharn provincial governor and leading staff will, on 6 February 2009, conduct a mobile tour of two villages in the province to learn about hardships caused by poverty and to offer government assistance where possible. See Thai language report here.
Temple Monks Caught With Marihuana
3 January 31, 2009
Nakhonphanom, NE Thailand
NE Public Relations Report
Nakhon Phanom Police With Headline News...
On 29 January 31, 2009 Police Major Ratchaphongse Nampatsa, inspector of the Nakhon Phaonom provincial police investigation unit, traveled to inspect and apprehend monks in the city who had gathered to use marihuana. The inspector thus joined with Police Major Nataphongse Trongthieng, inspector of police Suppression Division together with officers and apprehended monks in a local temple who were using marihuana inside one of the monk’s temple houses. Among the evidence collected was a quantity of marihuana and an adapted plastic water bottle. Police interrogated the two caught, one of whom was 24 year old Phra Sakda, or Mr. Sakda, who confessed saying he had ordained about a year ago, as did his companion in the same temple. The older monk indicated that he had contacted a friend and purchased marihuana at about 200-300 Baht a time. Police took the two for disrobing from the monkhood and case processing.
Surin Residents Get Free Cataract Surgery
25 January 2
PRD Surin
Free cataract surgeries for over 600 people in Surin The Thai Physician Association in the United States in collaboration with surgeons in Thailand will offer free cataract surgeries for over 600 people in Surin province. Director of Surin Hospital Thongchai Treewiboonwanit (ธงชัย ตรีวิบูลย์วณิชย์) said that Thai Physician Association in the United States and surgeons of Surin Hospital, Buri Ram Hospital as well as plastic surgery physicians from Chulalongkorn Hospital cooperated in organizing the free surgery project for cataract patients, the disabled, hare lipped patients, and other patients who need plastic surgery. The project is scheduled from January 26th – 30th, from 8am to 4pm at Surin Hospital. The Suring Hospital’s director invites people to participate in the project. The hospital will provide free transportation for people from other districts in the province.
Rights Abuses in Thailand
From: http://rspas.anu.edu.au/rmap/newmandala/2009/01/24/abhisits-human-rights-challenge/#comment-602600
24 January 2009
The following opinion piece, which I authored, appeared in today’s Sydney Morning Herald. Rights abuse? You wouldn’t read about it SMH Illustration: Rocco Fazzari Harry Nicolaides was herded, shackled, into a Bangkok holding cell on Monday. He was sentenced to three years in prison for the contents of a single paragraph. The Melbourne author’s crime was to write a short passage referring to the private life of Thailand’s crown prince in a self-published novel that sold only 10 copies.He was sentenced under Thailand’s draconian lese-majeste law, which forbids any frank discussion of the royal family. In the wake of the conviction, he threw himself on the mercy of the people he was accused of offending, petitioning the palace for a royal pardon. On Wednesday, this newspaper reported that the Thai army had - on two separate occasions - pushed about 1000 Burmese boat people back into international waters. The refugees were escaping from the Burmese regime’s persecution of ethnic minorities. More than 500 are now said to be dead or missing. The Thai military stands accused of detaining the refugees and beating and whipping them, before setting them adrift without motors or sufficient food and water. The Government says it has launched an investigation, while the local army commander denied the accusations, arguing his men gave the refugees provisions and “helped them on their way”. Thailand’s human rights reputation has taken a battering. These two incidents represent a serious challenge for the new Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, who says he is determined to restore his country’s reputation after last year’s political turmoil. His Government came to power a month ago, after the dramatic occupation of Bangkok’s international airport by protesters determined to overthrow the previous government. The protesters crippled Thailand’s lucrative tourism industry, and shredded its long-cultivated image as a foreigner-friendly destination. Abhisit presents himself as an urbane and modern leader (and Oxford educated to boot), one who can guide Thailand through the international financial crisis, restore the rule of law, and repair the country’s damaged image. But the Nicolaides case and the humanitarian tragedy of the Burmese boat people are not isolated incidents that can easily be dealt with by public relations spin. They relate to the role of two of the country’s most powerful institutions - the monarchy and the army - which helped bring Abhisit to power. The Government has placed protecting the monarchy’s reputation at the top of its political agenda. Heightened political divisions over the past few years have generated increasing comment domestically and internationally about the political role of the royal family. There is unprecedented discussion about the palace’s support for the campaign waged by the People’s Alliance for Democracy against Thailand’s former government, which was democratically elected in December 2007. The Economist suggested - in a now infamous article - that the Thai king had “lost faith in democracy” by endorsing a series of military coups during his reign and remaining silent throughout last year while the ultra-royalist PAD campaigned to overthrow an elected government. Forbes magazine encouraged further discussion by reporting that the king was the world’s richest royal, with assets worth $US35 billion ($54 billion), while Thai internet bulletin boards regularly feature barely coded anti-royal comments that are especially critical of the Queen, given her open support for the PAD’s campaign. There has been a vigorous royalist backlash to this outbreak of free speech. The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology has tried to block thousands of websites that carry material on the royal family, army units have been ordered to monitor the internet for inappropriate content and ordinary citizens have been encouraged to report anti-royal comments to police. The crackdown is serious: a political activist was sentenced to six years in prison for criticising the king at a public rally, while another is in prison awaiting trial and facing the prospect of an even heavier sentence. Just this week came another charge of lese-majeste. An academic at a prestigious university was charged because eight paragraphs in his book about the military coup in September 2006 referred to the political influence of the king. Nicolaides was in the wrong place at the wrong time, caught up in a campaign of good old-fashioned political repression. It is clear the Thai Government is willing to sacrifice freedom of speech for protection ofthe royal family’s image. But how will it respond to human rights abuses perpetrated by the army? The gravity of the charges over its actions towards the Burmese boat people, plus ongoing international scrutiny, should prompt firm action against the perpetrators. But this is far from inevitable, as there are bigger political issues involved. The extent of military influence within the Government is not clear, but Abhisit owes his commanders big favours. His path to the prime ministership goes back to the 2006 coup, which overthrew Thaksin Shinawatra’s populist government and sent him into exile. The military-controlled government that followed put in place a new constitution. This included provisions that could be used to undermine a pro-Thaksin government if one was to regain power, which is exactly what happened in December 2007, at the first post-coup election. The newly elected government had to live with judicial interference and speculation about another coup for much of its short life. Its fate was sealed when the army refused to move on PAD protesters who occupied Government House and, later, the international airport. The army chief even took the extraordinary step of calling on Abhisit’s predecessor, Somchai Wongsawat, to resign during the airport crisis. When the ruling party was finally dissolved by the Constitutional Court, the army chief played a key role in persuading government politicians to defect to Abhisit’s camp, giving him the numbers to win the parliamentary vote for prime minister. The army is politically powerful, and Abhisit can be expected to come under pressure not to expose it to undesirable domestic and international scrutiny. There is no lese-majeste law that can be called upon to cover up reports of refugee mistreatment. But already Abhisit seems to be laying the groundwork for a minimalist investigation, suggesting that media coverage of the incident may be exaggerated and that witnesses may have misunderstood what they were seeing. On Thursday he even seemed to endorse the army action, announcing a crackdown on illegal immigrants, declaring “we will push them out of the country”. The brutal dirty work against the unfortunate refugees is alleged to have been done by the internal security operations command, a military unit dating from Thailand’s fight against communist insurgents during the Cold War. It was given expanded powers after the 2006 coup, and its broad national security brief may grant it protection from close scrutiny. But whatever the outcome of the investigation, the incident is the latest in the army’s very patchy human rights record. There is a well-documented history of forced repatriation of refugees by army units. And in the southern Muslim provinces, the army’s heavy-handed response to low-level insurgency has compounded grievances and strengthened the cause of anti-government elements. In 2004 there were two notorious cases of military brutality. In April, 28 militants were killed when the army stormed the sacred Krue Se mosque after a poorly managed siege. One of the commanders involved in the mosque killings, Colonel Manat Kongpan, is accused of leading the recent push-back action against the Burmese boat people. In October about 80 protesters suffocated when they were detained and stacked like logs in army trucks for a three-hour journey to a military base. No one has been punished for these incidents, which took place under the watch of Thaksin, the champion of the notorious “war on drugs” that claimed over 2000 lives in a nationwide rampage of extrajudicial killings. Abhisit is undoubtedly keen to distance his administration from the excesses of the Thaksin era. So far, despite some hitches, he has succeeded in presenting a positive image to the international community. After the political turmoil of the past year, his leadership holds out the attractive prospect of stability, perhaps even reconciliation. But unless his Government is willing to expose the monarchy and the military to internationally acceptable standards of scrutiny and accountability, his human rights credibility will be compromised and he will bear a heavy burden of repression. Murderous military brutality cannot go unpunished, especially when writing a paragraph about the private life of a prince in an unread book lands you in jail for three years.
Ungpakorn Details Charges Against Him
20 January 2009
Details of lese majeste charges against Giles Ji Ungpakorn Today, the police informed me that I have been charged with lese majeste because of 8 paragraphs in Chapter 1 of my book "A Coup for the Rich". The paragraphs are listed below.
According to the police charge sheet, the charges arise from the fact that the Director of Chulalongkorn University bookshop decided to inform Special Branch that my book "insulted the Monarchy". The bookshop is managed by the academic management of the university. So much for academic freedom!
Paragraphs deemed to have "insulted the Monarchy"
(1) The major forces behind the 19th September coup were anti-democratic groups in the military and civilian elite, disgruntled business leaders and neo-liberal intellectuals and politicians. The coup was also supported by the Monarchy. What all these groups have in common is contempt and hatred for the poor. For them, "too much democracy" gives "too much" power to the poor electorate and encourages governments to "over-spend" on welfare. For them, Thailand is divided between the "enlightened middle-classes who understand democracy" and the "ignorant rural and urban poor". In fact, the reverse is the case. It is the poor who understand and are committed to democracy while the so-called middle classes are determined to hang on to their privileges by any means possible.
(2) The junta claimed that they had appointed a "civilian" Prime Minister. Commentators rushed to suck up to the new Prime Minister, General Surayud, by saying that he was a "good and moral man". In fact, Surayud, while he was serving in the armed forces in 1992, was partly responsible for the blood bath against unarmed pro-democracy demonstrators[1]. He personally led a group of 16 soldiers into the Royal Hotel which was a temporary field hospital. Here, his soldiers beat and kicked people [2]. News reports from the BBC and CNN at the time show soldiers walking on top of those who were made to lie on the floor. Three months after the 2006 coup, on the 4th December, the King praised Prime Minister Surayud in his annual birthday speech.
(3) The members of the military appointed parliament received monthly salaries and benefits of almost 140,000 baht while workers on the minimum wage receive under 5000 baht per month and many poor farmers in villages live on even less. These parliamentarians often drew on multiple salaries. The government claimed to be following the King's philosophy of "Sufficiency" and the importance of not being greedy. Apparently everyone must be content with their own level of Sufficiency, but as Orwell might have put it, some are more "Sufficient" than others. For the Palace, "Sufficiency" means owning a string of palaces and large capitalist conglomerates like the Siam Commercial Bank. For the military junta it means receiving multiple fat cat salaries and for a poor farmer it means scratching a living without modern investment in agriculture. The Finance Minister explained that Sufficiency Economics meant "not too much and not too little": in other words, getting it just right. No wonder Paul Handley described Sufficiency Economics as "pseudo-economics"[3]! In addition to this, the junta closed the Taksin government's Poverty Reduction Centre, transferring it to the office of the Internal Security Operations Command and transforming it into a rural development agency using Sufficiency Economics[4].
(4) It should not be taken for granted that the anti-Taksin military-bureaucratic network is a network led by or under the control of the Monarchy, despite any Royal connections that it might have. Paul Handley argues that the Monarchy is all powerful in Thai society and that its aim is to be a just (Thammaracha) and Absolute Monarch [5]. For Handley, Taksin was challenging the Monarchy and seeking to establish himself as "president". There is little evidence to support the suggestion that Taksin is a republican. There is also ample evidence in Handley's own book that there are limitations to the Monarchy's power. Never the less, Handley's suggestion that the 19th September coup was a Royal Coup, reflects a substantial body of opinion in Thai society.
(5) The Monarchy over the last 150 years has shown itself to be remarkably adaptable to all circumstances and able to gain in stature by making alliances with all sorts of groups, whether they be military dictatorships or elected governments. The Monarchy may have made mild criticisms of the Taksin government, but this did not stop the Siam Commercial Bank, which is the Royal bank, from providing funds for the sale of Taksin's Shin Corporation to Temasek holdings[6]. Nor should it be assumed that Taksin and Thai Rak Thai were somehow "anti-Royalist". For over 300 years the capitalist classes in many countries have learnt that conservative Constitutional Monarchies help protect the status quo under capitalism and hence their class interests. However, it is also clear that the Thai King is more comfortable with military dictatorships than with elected governments. This explains why the Monarchy backed the 19 September coup.
(6) In April 2006 the present Thai Monarch stated on the issue of the use of Section 7[7] that: "I wish to reaffirm that section 7 does not mean giving unlimited power to the Monarch to do as he wishes… Section 7 does not state that the Monarch can make decisions on everything… if that was done people would say that the Monarch had exceeded his duties. I have never asked for this nor exceeded my duties. If this was done it would not be Democracy." [8] However, by September and certainly by December, the King publicly supported the coup.
(7) For this reason there is a very important question to ask about the 19th September 2006 coup. Did the Thai Head of State try to defend Democracy from the military coup which destroyed the 1997 Constitution on the 19th September? Was the Head of State forced to support the military junta? Did he willingly support those who staged the coup? Did he even plan it himself, as some believe? These are important questions because the military junta who staged the coup and destroyed Democracy have constantly claimed legitimacy from the Head of State. Starting in the early days of the coup they showed pictures of the Monarchy on TV, they tied yellow Royalist ribbons on their guns and uniforms and asked the Head of State to send his representative to open their military appointed parliament. Later in his annual birthday speech in December, the King praised the military Prime Minister. We need the truth in order to have transparency and in order that Civil Society can make all public institutions accountable. What we must never forget is that any institution or organisation which refuses to build transparency can only have conflicts of interest which it wishes to hide.
(8) In the early part of his reign the Monarch was young and unprepared for the job. He only became King because of an accident which happened to his elder brother. More than that, the Thai government at the time was headed by General Pibun who was an anti-Royalist. Therefore the Monarchy faced many problems in performing its duties as Head of State. This helps perhaps to explain why the Monarchy supported the military dictatorship of Field Marshall Sarit. It is Sarit who was partly responsible for promoting and increasing respect for the Monarchy [9]. But many years have passed. The status and experience of the Thai Head of State have changed. The Monarch has much political experience, more than any politician, due to the length of time on the Throne. Therefore the Monarch today exhibits the confidence of one who has now gained much experience. For example, he chastised elected governments, like that of Prime Minister Taksin. The important question for today therefore is: if the Monarch can chastise the Taksin government over the human rights abuses in the War on Drugs[10], why cannot the Monarch chastise the military for staging a coup and abusing all democratic rights? Reading through these paragraphs it is clear that this lese majeste charge is really about preventing any discussion about the relationship between the military junta and the Monarchy. This is in order to protect the military's sole claim to legitimacy: that it acted in the interests of the Monarchy.
Associate Professor Giles Ji Ungpakorn Faculty of Political Science Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand 20 Jan 2009 Ji.ungpakorn@gmail.com
Another Lese Majeste Arrest
Reporters Without Borders
15 January 2009
News Reporters Without Borders deplores today's arrest of Internet user Suwicha Thakhor on a charge of insulting the monarchy (lèse majesté ), just one day after Thai Netizen Network, a group that defends online freedom of expression, met with Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and suggested ways to reach a compromise on Internet regulation, including the issue of lese majeste. "This arrest gives the government the opportunity to demonstrate its readiness to maintain a real dialogue by keeping a close watch on the conduct of the investigation," Reporters Without Borders said. "We urge the government to do everything possible to ensure that Thakhor is released as soon as the authorities establish that he has not done anything that violates democratic norms." The Department of Special Investigations said Thakhor was arrested because his computer's Internet address matched the address from which comments about the king and his aides had been sent. He was picked up by the police while visiting friends in the provinces. The authorities say they suspect he knew the police were after him and that he left the capital for this reason. Thakhor, who is being held at Department of Special Investigations headquarters in Bangkok, has denied the charges. Supinya Klangnarong, the coordinator of Thai Netizen Network and a media advocate, spoke to Reporters Without Borders after yesterday's meeting with the prime minister. "During this meeting, we were able to express our views and concerns," she said. "Meeting with the PM is the first step to beginning negotiations aimed at seeking appropriate regulation that will uphold cyber-liberty in Thailand." Political science professor Giles Ji Ungpakorn yesterday called for a national and international campaign to demand the abolition of the crime of lèse majesté. On 11 January, Ungpakorn was ordered to report to a Bangkok police station on 20 January to be charged under the lese majeste law in connection with his book "A Coup for the Rich," which can be downloaded at no cost from his blog, http://www.wdpress.blog.co.uk. Reporters Without Borders reiterates its call for the withdrawal of the charges against him. [Ed note: If you have trouble dowloading, contact me.]
Border Checkpoint Bombed
NARATHIWAT, January 14, 2009
(TNA)
Two bombs exploded on Wednesday at a Thai-Malaysian border checkpoint in this southern border province, but no one was injured in the incident occurred hours before Thai new defence minister and the army chief are scheduled to visit the insurgency-plagued region. Narathiwat police and other security personnel rushed to the scene and found that a bomb had damaged four aluminium computer boxes installed about 300 metres from the border. The computers are to record the number of vehicles crossing the border each day. Another bomb exploded three metres from the first blast site as the authorities were beginning to inspect the scene. There were no reports of casualties. The bombings occurred a few hours before Thailand's new defence minister retired army general Prawit Wongsuwan and Army commander-in-chief Gen. Anupong Paochinda (Wiki Ref.) were to visit the region. Speaking to reporters before departing, Gen. Prawit said the visit was to boost troop morale and to review the work of the Internal Security Operation Command (ISOC). "The number of violent incident has receded recently as s result of increased public understanding and improved public support for local security personnel," the defence minister said. He added that Tuesday's Cabinet resolution to establish a committee tasked with developing the five southern provinces will boost efforts to tackle insurgency in the southern border region, while Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, who concurrently heads ISOC, will help facilitate its work. The premier will make a one-day visit to Yala, one of the most troubled border provinces, on Saturday. It will be his first visit since taking office in December. More than 3,500 people have been killed since the violence erupted in early 2004. The Thai cabinet agreed to extend the enforcement of emergency rule in the Muslim-predominant region for another three months from January 20 through April 19. It is the 14th extension since the emergency was first imposed during the then Thaksin administration in 2005. (TNA)
Associate Prof. Giles Ji Ungpakorn Summoned By Police Over Lese Majesty Allegation
12 January 2009
News Associate Professor Giles Ji Ungpakorn, Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University, has been summonsed to Pathumwan police station for questioning at 13.00 hrs on Tuesday 23th January 2009. The summons was issued as a result of a complaint filed by Special Branch Police Lt Col. Pansak Sasana-anund. Professor Ungpakorn has been accused by the above individual of les majesty. No details have been given of the allegations. Such details should be revealed after the initial police interview. Professor Ungpakorn has not yet been officially charged. Professor Ungpakorn will give a press conference outside the Pathumwan police station at 12.30 and will also be available to answer questions after the police interview. As a political science lecturer, Professor Ungpakorn has written a number of academic articles concerning the monarchy. These can be read on his web blog: http://wdpress.blog.co.uk/ and in his book “A Coup for the Rich”. The book was withdrawn from sale by Chulalongkorn University and Thammasart University bookshops. It can be down-loaded from his weblog for free. The Monarchy has been quoted and used by various political factions in Thailand to legitimise their actions. The most notable cases are the 19th September 2006 military coup and the illegal protests by the yellow-shirted P.A.D., which included shutting down the international airports. Les Majesty charges in Thailand are notorious for being used by different political factions to attack their opponents. Many believe that this law is actually counter-productive to defending the Monarchy. This is why it is very important that political scientists attempt to analyse the real role and nature of the Thai Monarchy in an atmosphere of freedom and democracy. Professor Ungpakorn is prepared to fight any les majesty charges in order to defend academic freedom, the freedom of expression and democracy in Thailand. Since this accusation was filed by a Special Branch officer, the present Democrat Party Government should be questioned about its role in this and many other cases. The new Prime Minister has stated that he wants to see a firm crackdown on les majesty. In late December, the police filed allegations of les majesty against the BBC correspondent in Bangkok, Jonathan Head. Many other cases are also pending.
There are charges that Israel is using a weapon even more inhumane than landmines. Called the DIME, this weapon seems designed to cause damage to body rather than physical structures. 2006 report. Military reference.
A leading Thai academic and human rights activist has been hounded by the police, this time with a summons to appear for lese majeste allegations. See summons here. Pathumwan police tel. 02 215 2991-3.
Abhisit calls for cooperation from all political parties
13 January 2009
National News Bureau of Thailand
236 Wiphawadee Rd. Dindaeng
Bangkok. 10400
Prime Minister Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva asked for cooperation from all political parties to jointly propel Thailand to leap forward. Congratulating new 29 MPs following Sunday (January 11)’s by election, Mr. Abhisit said on Monday that he appreciated general public who participated in the election process which was vital procedure under democracy. The election results, he said, reflected that general public wanted the country to leap forward, adding they preferred to see declining conflicts, government’s solution in various problems, in particular economic woes, to be swiftly and smoothly achieved. It was the government’s tasks to fulfill these desire, he said, adding that the administration needed cooperation from both old and newly elected MPs. Mr. Ahhisit urged MPs from all political parties to help pushing the government’s agenda to be submitted to the Parliament during the first two weeks of its session, including accords to be signed during the upcoming 14th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Hua Hin between February 27 and March 1, as well as 2009 mid fiscal year budget. He noted that if economic solution measures could be blessed by the Parliament’s first reading by the end of January and the ASEAN’s accords being endorsed, other matters would be more easy as it would mean the government has laid down foundation to resolve major problems. The three coalition parties won a combined 20 MPs from the Sunday’s by election. They included three MPs under Democrat party, 10 MPs under Chart Thai Pattana, and three under Puea Pandin. While opposition parties won nine seats altogether, including five MPs under Phuea Thai party and the remainders under Pracharaj. Mr. Abhisit also said that the government’s coordinating committee was working with opposition parties regarding the administration’s tasks. However, opposition Phuea Thai party was in the process of singling out a new leader. So, a normal coordination process would be able to proceed. He added there would be no cabinet shake-up following Sunday’s by-election as agreement has been reached between coalition parties and factions after formation of his administration. He said that number of MPs would not take into account for cabinet’s reshuffling, adding that the move, if occurring, would depended on government’s works which has not yet been the case at the moment. Mr. Abhisit insisted the government would not be spoiled by the result of Sunday’s by-election, adding number of government’s MPs did not significantly overshadow the opposition parites. He also said that he has implemented a clear principle that every single minister must be prepared to be probed for their works. Political movement outside the Parliament could be done as far as it was under legal framework with non-violence.
Democrats Take Bangkok
Victory clashes with Isaan propensity toward populist candidates...
12 January 2009
Agencies
MR Sukhumbhand delighted by exit poll result The Bangkok governor candidate number 2, MR Sukhumbhand Paribatra, gave a big hug to his mother after the exit poll result was unveiled this afternoon (January 11th). Democrat Party's Bangkok governor candidate MR Sukhumbhand offered his mother, Mom Dusdi Paribatra Na Ayutthaya, a big smile and a hug upon his acknowledgment of the exit poll result indicating his possible victory by landslide. Mom Dusdi sympathetically pointed out to her son that being in the Bangkok governor's seat will bring heavy responsibilities and tiring workloads while blessing him in assuming governorship for two consecutive terms. In addition, MR Sukhumbhand vowed that, if elected, he would give his best efforts in serving Bangkok residents and would not to be discouraged by his work or resign from the position. He stated that he would wait for the ballot counting result at the Democrat Party Headquarters this evening.
At least He Takes Family...
10 January 2009
The Nation
Some 50 traffic policemen of the Chiang Mai head office Friday field complaint against their peer, alleging him with cheating them out of Bt1.2 million in traffic fine rewards. The policemen filed complaint against Police Senior Sergeant Major Thanawat Sinpieng, 47, at the Chiangmai Muang district police station. They said Thanawat was assigned to withdraw the money of traffic fine rewards for December from the Krung Thai Bank's San Pa Khoy branch in the Muang district on December 29 but he disappeared. The money was for sharing among 150 traffic policemen, they said. They said Thanawat was earlier assigned to withdraw the money several times with no problem. He has disappeared with his family. The Nation
9 January 2009
By The Nation, Hua Hin
"The only agenda we have..."
Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya [bio] said this morning Thailand should be more strategic and proactive in Thai-US relations, instead of reacting to the US foreign policy and requests. Kasit told international participants at "Refreshing Thai-US Relations" conference, in Hua Hin that Thailand and US should "plot strategically together and work vigorously to face challenges posed by globalization." As a former Thai envoy to the US, Kasit said Thai-US friendship of more than 175-year-old ties are fundamentally strong but they do need to reinvigorate their friendship and make bilateral cooperation more tangible and meaningful. In his first foreign policy speech, Kasit said that the Abhisit government will conduct the country's foreign policy in transparent and accountable ways without hidden agendas or vested interests. "The only agenda we have is to protect the interest of Thai people and the country," he reiterated The new governments of Thailand and US, he pointed out, shared many commonalities--new, young and dynamic--led by young leaders who have visions to see strong engagements and cooperation with one another. "I am optimistic that both countries could work for better relations." The conference was organized by the American Studies Program, Chulalongkorn Univerity's Institute of Security and International Studies.
Surin Accident Record Down From 2008
Surin province reports its accident tally at the end of the 7 dangerous days with 112 injuries and 5 deaths from an overall 105 accidents throughout the province. Surin province summarized on the accident tally at the end of the 7 dangerous days from December 30, 2008 – January 5, 2009 that, a total number of 105 accidents was witnessed and resulted in 5 deaths, of which 3 of them were males and 2 were females, as 4 of them were local residents. A total number of 112 injured cases were also reported, as 95 of them were males and 17 were females. Motorcycles were accounted for 80% of road accidents in the province, while drunk-driving and speeding held about 40% of total death tolls. Surin Deputy Governor Mr. Wirat Limsuwat revealed that accidents during the New Year Festival 2009 were 44.44% less than those in the previous year, while the number of injured victims was decreased by 29.11%.
An earlier report...
Surin governor Mr.Pramoj Sanyalak (ปราโมทย์ สัญลักษณ์) revealed details about the measures aimed at preventing and reducing road accidents during New Year festival between December 28 December, 2008 and January 3, 2009 or being set as seven dangerous days proned to accidents. Mr. Pramoj urged provincial officials to prepare plans to prevent road accidents at main and minor roads because a great number of people were expected to use the roads during the holiday festival. In addition, Surin provincial officials would strictly enforce relevant laws and regulations in an effort to reduce the accidents. Officials also planned to hold daily meeting to examine the problems and determine solutions. Surin province had 136 road accidents, nine deaths and 158 being injured during 2008 New Year festival.
Death Toll Rises To Sixty Four
BANGKOK, January 5, 2009
(TNA)
A japanese reveller succumbed to severe burns from the New Year's Eve inferno at a luxury nightclub in a prime Bangkok entertainment venue late Sunday, bringing the death toll to 64, a senior public health ministry official said on Monday. Dr. Chatree Charoentheerakul, Secretary-General of the Institute of Emergency Medical Services, said Keiichi Wada, 25, was pronounced dead at 9.05pm at Chulalongkorn Hospital, four days after the fire at the Santika Club on Ekamai Road. By early Monday, 68 of the injured victims were still receiving treatment in various hospitals, 35 in intensive care units, according to Dr. Chatree. Police General Jongrak Jutanont, Deputy National Police Commissioner, said the investigators had interviewed survivors to establish the cause of the blaze, which was yet to be concluded. Police did not rule out the possiblility that the cause of the fire could have been caused by either stage effects used by the club, or fireworks lit by a customer, Gen. Jongrak said. Suriya Rit-rabue, managing director of White & Brothers (2003) Co and registered owner of the pub, will face charges of recklessly causing other people's deaths and allowing customers aged under 20 into the pub, as a 17-year-old high school student was found among the dead, Gen. Jongrak said. The major partner of the Santika Club, Wisuth Setsawat, said he had initially compensated relatives of 11 of the dead Bt20,000 each and had collected money totalling Bt2 million from 12 other partners of the club to be distributed to the next-of-kin of the fatalities and those survivors who were injured. A centre will be set up Monday to accept donations aimed at assisting inferno victims, Mr. Wisuth said, insisting that the incident would leave his partners and him unable to claim insurance money because their coverage had expired four months ago and they did not renew it. (TNA)
Early Elections Turnout Heavy
4 January 2008
Translated from NE News Center
Buriram residents began casting ballots at local election centers for members of Parliament, with 21,300 voters from two districts casting their votes. Most were reported to residents who were working in other provinces of the country. Thawee Khunkrau, director of Buriram provincial elections committee, indicated that voter turnout for the by-election was heavy and voter interest high.
Club fire Raises Several Questions, Including the old bribery one...
BANGKOK, January 2, 2009
(TNA)
Thailand's Minister of Interior has ordered authorities involved to inspect safety measures at entertainment venues in Bangkok and throughout Thailand and outline measures to prevent possible accidents following a New Year fire at a packed Bangkok club which killed 60 partygoers. Interior minister Chavarat Charnvirakul said during his visit to Chulalongkorn Hospital where blaze victims from the New Year’s blaze at Santika Club were being treated that law enforcement in fire safety and the building code must be stepped up. “We should learn from this tragic event and come up with measures to avoid repeating the same mistakes. There should be random inspections on safety measures to be conducted by Bangkok Metropolitan Administration officials,” said the interior minister. Thai officials said so far 11 charred bodies were still unidentified from the Santika blaze and the death toll had risen to 60. Thirty-five foreigners were among the nearly 250 people injured in the fire on New Year's Eve. According to Chulalongkorn Hospital director Adisorn Pataradul, his hospital was treating 12 people injured in the blaze, and one of two critically-injured patients was a Japanese national, Keiichi Wada. Department of Information director-general Tharit Charungvat said Chinese ambassador to Thailand Zhang Jiuhuan had sent a message of condolence regarding the loss of lives and injuries in the fire. China was also to send medical supplies worth US$500,000 for treatment of the fire victims, due to arrive in Thailand on Saturday. Police Maj. Gen. Jongrak Jutanont said police had interviewed witnesses and survivors to establish the cause of the blaze, which was yet to be concluded. “Now the initial allegation is the club operator broke the law by allowing people under the age of 20 to enter the club,” he said. Gen. Jongrak said a seventeen-year-old was found dead in the fire. Police will press charges against the club’s owner, who was reportedly being treated in a hospital. The Police Chief added the incident was not likely arson, as the club’s insurance had expired in mid 2008. (TNA)
By: Bangkok Post Published: 3/01/2009 at 01:30 AM
Owner Wisuk Setsawat and others responsible for the Santika pub, which caught fire on Thursday causing the loss of 59 lives, will face legal action for admitting underage revellers, letting its insurance lapse and not having an operating licence. Deputy national police chief Pol Gen Jongrak Chuthanont said the owner of Santika on Ekamai road applied for an operating licence in 2004, but the request was rejected because construction was unfinished at the time. The owner then asked the Administrative Court to temporarily approve the operation, which it did. Deputy city clerk Wanwilai Phromlakhano said the pub building received a construction permit when it was built in 2003. However, approval of the operating licence rested with police, who were in dispute with the owner of the building. Ms Wanwilai did not elaborate. Pol Maj-Gen Chokechai Deeprasert, commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau's Division 5, said Santika was not insured. Its insurance coverage expired four months ago and was not extended as the pub lease contract was about to expire. As the insurance had expired, police have ruled out the possibility of arson. However, experts have yet to conclude whether the fire started by accident, Pol Maj-Gen Chokechai said. Police were waiting for Santika pub owner Wisuk Setsawat to show up for questioning. Pol Maj-Gen Chokechai said he did not know when Mr Wisuk would turn up and added that the pub owner suffered a respiratory problem in the fire. Mr Wisuk was hospitalised but police said his whereabouts were not immediately known. Police will call Chris Pongpithaya, the owner of the pub building, and Suriya Ritrabue, the pub manager, for interrogation instead. Worapot Inthulak, chief of the Watthana district office, said an early investigation attributed the fire to fireworks set off inside the building during the Santika's farewell party that night. He said the fireworks set ablaze materials inside the building. The fire killed 59 people and injured at least 243. Twenty-one bodies, 14 of which had been taken to Chulalongkorn hospital, still could not be identified. Nantana Sitthisak, head of Chulalongkorn hospital's forensics department, said six of the 14 bodies were burned beyond recognition. An autopsy report shows all were Asian women. Another two days to a week would be needed to complete the body identification process, she said. A body identification centre has been set up at the Thong Lor police station. Pol Lt-Gen Danai Wongthai, chief of the Police Forensic Science Department, said identification would have to rely on DNA tests. Some of the dead's relatives filed complaints on Friday. Yai Waythita from Pattani said her younger brother who died in the Santika fire always carried his ID card and 10,000 baht in cash with him, but both were missing. Patthida Phosri, who lost her husband Arthithep, said she had first seen the body of her husband wearing a gold necklace weighing five-baht and two gold-framed amulets, but the valuables later disappeared. Another Bangkok bar caught fire early Friday, but there were no casualties. The four-storey Rawhide bar on Soi Cowboy off Sukhumvit Soi 23 caught fire after hours. A faulty electric connection to decorations on a Christmas tree was blamed. The mezzanine floor and ceiling tiles on the first floor were damaged but no one was injured because the fire happened after the pub had closed. Like the Santika, the Rawhide bar had been full of customers on New Year's Eve, but was very quiet in the early hours of Friday.
Fire at popular Santika Pub in Ekkamai Soi 9 - Sukhumvit 63
1 January 2009
The Nation
Wednesday night, killing nearly 60 people celebrating the New Year countdown and injuring many others, police said. TV Channel 7 reported that at least 59 people were killed and more than 200 injured. TV footages showed the entire three-storey structure, which covered hundreds of squaremetres, on fire. Tearful revellers were being comforted by friends. Firemen were alerted shortly after midnight but when they arrived at the three-story building, pandemonium was already breaking out with hundreds of people scrambling for their lives. Charity foundations' workers were trying to bring New Year celebrators out the narrow front door one by one. A lot of people remained trapped inside the most popular pub in the area when the firemen arrived, screaming for help. It took two hours to bring the blaze under control. Police said at least 54 people were killed and scores were injured. It was believed hundreds were inside the popular pub. Some pub workers told police that the fire was likely caused by firework explosions which set alight the pub's interior which housed many inflammable materials. One pub worker told reporters that the explosions were heard shortly after the New Year countdown ended. "After the explosions, someone shouted 'Fire!"," the pub worker said. Fire started on the top floor and spread quckly, the pub worker said. The quick smoke caused immediate panic, sending people scrambling to the front door where they had come in. Most of them were unaware there were three other exits, the pub worker said. The exact number of people injured remained unknown. Many have been sent to 14 hospitals including Ramkhamhaeng, Bangkok, Kluaynam Thai 2, Vipa-Ram hospitals. The pub worker said up to 1,000 people could have been inside when the fire broke out. One man, Somchai Frendi, who was inside the pub when the fire broke out, said the blaze was caused by a "special-effect" firework to usher in the New Year. It made the ceiling, which was made largely of inflammable sound-proof materials, catch fire which spread very quickly. The fire and smoke sent people on the second floor scrambling downstairs while those on the ground floor also rushed for the door. But with most people knowing only one exit _ through which they had come in _ they crammed the space and the results were deadly. The pub's promotion poster called the New Year Party "Goodbye Santika", apparently because the pub owner was planning to move to a new venue as the lease on the property could not be extended. Those who died either suffered severe burns or were suffocated by smoke, police said.
Red-clad Demonstrators To Rally Continuously
BANGKOK, December 28, 2008
Thailand News Agency
Red-clad demonstrators will rally continuously on December 29-30, when Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva will deliver the government's policy statement, according to Veera Musikapong, a leader of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD). The UDD leaders began addressing the demonstrators at 4pm from their Sanam Luang platform on Sunday, one day ahead of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva's delivery of the government's policy statement in Parliament. Mr. Veera said UDD leader Nuttawut Saikua planned to talk on stage about financial support from TPI Polene Pcl to the Democrat Party and show evidence of money transaction. He said the wrongdoing can be punished by the party's dissolution. UDD leader Chatuporn Promphan said that the UDD will announce at 8 pm Sunday evening whether it will move its widely publicised protest to Parliament to pressure the government on Monday or not. If there is no so-called 'third party' joining the protesters and the UDD leader can control the crowd to protest in a peaceful manner, he said, the group will move to Parliament. After the New Year the UDD activists will decide whether to prolong their protest, he added. About 5,000 police officers have reinforced security at Parliament. Meanwhile, Puea Thai party spokesman Pormpong Nopparit said that the content of 40,000 pamphlets distributed by the police in Bangkok, surrounding areas and other provinces is considered threatening. The pamphlets said those, who obstructed the government's policy statement delivery in the parliamentary seesion, would be charged with insurrection, said Pormpong. While calling on Prime Minister Abhisit to dissolve the parliament, he told those who received the pamphlets from the police that peaceful protests without weapons is not against the law. (TNA)
BKK Governor Candidate No. 7 to promote city's true name
27 December 2008
NNBT
Bangkok Governor Candidate No. 7, Issara Amornvech (อิสระ อมรเวช) this morning reveals his policy to place emphasis on drawing foreign tourists back to Thailand in order to remedy the economy. To do so, he will promote a competition to create logo for the capital for becoming an internationally recognized landmark. Mr. Issara stated that if he were to be elected as Bangkok Governor, he would hold a logo competition to create a symbol that would represent Bangkok, as what the Statue of Liberty has done to New York City. He remarked that the symbol might be a statue of peace or carry similar sentiments that would be constructed into a landmark. He also stated that if elected to the office, he would promote the city's actual name, Krungthep Mahanakorn, to the world instead of having the city known among foreigners as Bangkok, which is inaccurate.
Internet Pornography Relegated To Second Place - After Lese Majeste!
26 December 2008
National News Bureau of Thailand
Reported by Itiporn Lakarnchua
ICT minister reports to first day of duty, swearing to tackle lèse majesté websites The Minister of Information and Communication Technology today's begin her first day of duty, indicating that the ministry will crackdown on websites defaming the Royal Institution. Minister of ICT Ranongruk Suwunchwee (ระนองรักษ์ สุวรรณฉวี) has today (December 26th) begun her first day of active duty. Speaking to the press after paying respect to the ministry's shrine, the minister indicated that the priority of the ministry is to deal with websites defaming the monarchy and committing lèse majesté as they are the most pressing matters. She also stated that the ministry will deal with ICT related problems directly impacting children, such as game addiction, pornography and online gambling. The minister assured that she can handle the position as she was once a minister before. She said she has not yet appointed an advisory team or set policies for the ministry, saying that she will wait until the Prime Minister delivers the government policy statement to the parliament. Mrs Ranongruk assured that her ministry would officially declare all policies on January 5th.
25 December 2008
Thai News Agency
UDD Learned From PAD
The anti-government "Red-Shirts" on Thursday vowed to gather one day before the government policy statement is delivered at Parliament and to protest indefinitely until Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva dissolves the House of Representatives as the group distrusts the prime minister to run the country. Leaders of the red-clad pro-Thaksin Shinawatra group, the United Front of Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) and the TV talk show programme hosts of 'Truth Today', a programme which was recently removed from state-run television NBT, affirmed that they would hold a peaceful mass protest against the Democrat-led coalition government. Key UDD leader and veteran politician Veera Musikapong, a Truth Today host, said the mass protest would be held at Sanam Luang on Sunday from 3pm. The aim of the gathering is to show their disapproval of the newly-appointed premier who, Mr. Veera accused, evaded conscription into military service. The government will present its policy to Parliament on Monday and Tuesday (December 29-30). "Mr. Abhisit is not qualified for the premiership as he avoided military conscription. His behaviour violates the constitutional law and the UDD can't trust him to lead the country," Mr. Veera said. Referring to reported attempts to prevent UDD members in the provinces to join the Bangkok rally this weekend, Jatuporn Prompan, another 'Truth Today' host and a Puea Thai Party MP, said that the blockades cannot stop the anti-government UDD from protesting. A third 'Truth Today' host, Nattawut Saikuea, who was a government spokesman for the Samak Sundaravej and Somchai Wongsawat administrations, said that the group would adopt new strategy to fight against the Abhisit government. House dissolution is the only target of the group, he said. Mr. Nattawut said some UDD will rally at Parliament Monday but will not use the same methods that the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) used against the previous governments, particularly the seizure of Government House. The UDD will focus on the draft-dodger issue, the appointment of PAD-related Foreign Minister Kasit Piromya, and the funding of the Democrat Party. "We will set up a new structure for the Red-Shirts," Mr. Nattawut said. "There will be a red-shirted legal expert team to handle lawsuits, red-shirted medics to take care of members well-being, and a team of red-shirted academics to provide useful advice." In early 2009, the UDD plans to protest in every province and distribute its information to members worldwide. In response to the UDD rally at Sanam Luang Sunday and Parliament on Monday, police plan to maintain security for members of parliament attending the two-day policy statement session. Police officers thoroughly inspected the Parliament premises in order to prepare exits for MPs in case of any blockade. (TNA)
24 December 2008
Thai National News Agency
Buses Ready To go For New Year
Nakhon Ratchasrima's mass transportation is all set for 2009 New Year Northeastern Nakhon Ratchasrima province has provided full security for passengers traveling by buses around the clock. Mr. Wattana Phattarachol (วัฒนา พัทรชนม์), Nakhon Ratchasrima province's transport division official, revealed today (December 24) that the Nakhon-Ratchasrima bus number 21 had three entrepreneurs: Air Kho Rat Company, Ratchasrima Tour Company and Suranari Air Company with a total of approximately 210 buses. Their regular daily schedules of passengers' transportation consisted of 180 and 220 pick-up and drop-offs trips. But during the New Year festival or any other festivals when there were increased significant of passengers, the number of pick up and drop offs trips would be available around the clock. To ensure passengers' safety during the festivals, a programme which drivers would be checked for their conditions before driving would be provided. Also, reserved drivers would be implemented. The province has conducted random safety tests and have determined that they were in perfect condition for the upcoming New Year festival.
23 December 2008
Translated from Kunthaluk website http://www.kunthaluk.com/news/show.php?Category=sisaket&No=164
Side-by-side fake and genuine 1,000 Baht banknotes.
Srisaket – Merchants and people of Srisaket shocked over widespread distribution of take 1,000 Baht banknotes, beg counterfeiters to cease, pointing to already poor state of the economy. Srisaket’s police commissioner, however, says the province has not yet experienced incoming fake notes.
Mr. Wira Thamtom, aged, 34, owner of Warisra store, fresh beef, of the ton Maleu fresh market, stated that he had been following news of the fake banknotes since the story surfaced. He indicated that while he was concerned he was concerned but had not turned down 1,000 Baht notes. Another merchant, 42 year-old Mrs. Wanphen Hongseto, said that while she was worried about fake banknotes she had also instructed her staff not to accept any while she was away on business. Authorities indicate that according to latest checks, they had not discovered any fake 1,000 Baht banknotes in circulation in the province.
20 December 2008
Agency Reports
Thai Cabinet Lineup, Actual - Changes From Proposed With Asterisk
The following Thai cabinet appointments were made by Thailand's new Democrat-led government:
Deputy Prime Ministers: Kobsak Sabhavasu, Suthep Thaugsuban, Sanan Kajornprasart
PM's Office Minister: Veerachai Veerametheekul
Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister: Theera Wongsamut
Commerce Ministry Minister: Pornthiwa Nakasai
Deputy: Alongkorn Ponlaboot
Culture Minister: Thira Salakphet
Defence Minister: Gen Prawit Wongsuwan
Education Ministry Minister: Jurin Laksanavisit
Deputy: Chaivuth Bannavat, Narisarat Chawaltanpithak *
Energy Minister: Wannarat Channukul
Finance Ministry Minister: Korn Chatikavanij
Deputy: Dr Pruektichai Damrongrat (PPD)*, Pradit Phataraprasit
Foreign Minister: Kasit Piromya
Industry Minister: Charnchai Chairungrueng*
Information and Communication Technology Minister: Ranongruk Suwanchawee*
Interior Ministry Minister: Chavarat Charnvirakul
Deputy: Boonjong Wongtrairat, Thavorn Senniam
Justice Minister: Peeraphan Saleerattavipak
Labour Minister: Paitoon Kaewthong
Natural Resources and Environment Minister: Suvit Khunkitti
Public Health Minister: Witthaya Kaewparadai
Science and Technology Minister: Khunying Kalaya Sophonpanich
Social Development and Human Security Minister: Vithoon Nambutr
Tourism and Sports Minister: Chumphol Silpa-archa
Transport Ministry Minister: Sopon Zarum
Deputy: Prajak Klaewklaharn, Kuarkul Danphisitchaikul
Democrats Pull It Off, Red Shirts Put Off
BANGKOK, December 15, 2008
(TNA)
About a hundred red-shirted demonstrators blocked access to Parliament and threw bricks at vehicles belonging to departing members of parliament, following Monday morning's critical vote, injuring one journalist and three MPs in their cars and damaging 30 vehicles after Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva won the vote as Thailand's new prime minister. Disgruntled supporters of ousted, self-exiled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra threw plastic bottles into the Parliament grounds and dragged police barricades to block the intended departure of the lawmakers after the vote finished around 11am. Riot police negotiated with the protesters and were able to open exits for MPs to leave Parliament after a ten-minute altercation between the angry demonstrators and the authorities. However, some protesters threw bricks pulled up from the footpaths at MPs vehicles, particularly from the Democrat Party. Democrat MPs Peeraphan Saleeratwipak and Thana Cheerawinit as well as Puea Pandin MP Chaiyod Chiramethakorn were injured in the incident when their cars were attacked. Meanwhile, some protesters kicked at vehicles of the MPs, and a bottle of liquid believed to be acid was thrown toward a group of red-shirted protesters, but no one was injured. Protest leaders later told red-shirted group to disperse at Puea Thai MP Jatuporn Promphan's request for fear of any violence caused by a possible third party, so police could open traffic on Sukhothai Road. Some protesters announced that they would gather at a community radio station in Soi Vibhavadi 3 and at Sanam Luang. (TNA)
Upbeat Isaan Note Re. Thai Politics
Translated from Korat Daily – Northeasterner
Year 34, Issue 1722, 12-15 December 2008
Speed-up to solve economic problems, favorable polar change in politics
Northeastern leaders want to see an image of a neutral 27th prime minister, not inflexible, not dishonest, who will speed up solving economic problems for the nation to advance.
After the Constitutional Court ruled for dissolution of three political parties – that is, the People Power Party, Chart Thai and Machisimatippatai – and decided to prohibit the party leaders and executives from politics for five years, which impacted the government led by Mr. Somchai Wongsawat to be removed from its station, including all cabinet members – this all became the center of attention from many parties and shifted attention to the new party, Pheua Thai (For Thailand), Prachathipatai (Demmocracy), or caretaker administration would proceed with setting up a government and fill cabinet seats with a new 28th prime minister to administer the country. Emphasis on life being most important
As to opinions regarding a new prime minister, Nong Khai’s lord mayor [Thai language municipality of Nong Khai page] Mr. Songphol Kowit Sirikul, disclosed to Korat Daily Easterner that the prime minister he wants is a person who comes into office to work for the advancement of the nation and not just walk back and forth or regress. Because currently politics has already been damaged enough, including creating divisiveness of people in the country, including economic problems that are now important. Full Thai language report available here.
BANGKOK, December 12, 2008
(TNA)
Another Thaksin Puppet Not Acceptable
The anti-Thaksin People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) declared on Friday its opposition to any possibility that the next prime minister come from the Puea Thai Party or any others of the previous coalition government. The group also lodged a dozen demands sought from the likely new Democrat Party-led coalition government. PAD coordinator Suriyasai Katasila said the demands included calls for the new government to accelerate investigation concerning lese majeste charges against key members of the United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD), Veera Musikapong and Jakrapob Penkair, former minister to the prime minister's office. The PAD also reasserted its opposition to constitutional amendment attempts, Mr. Suriyasai said, called for revoking former premier Thaksin Shinawatra's diplomatic passport, and demanded that the new government bring the deposed premier to face corruption charges in Thailand. In addition, the PAD called on the government to penalise the police officers accountable for the crackdown on anti-government protesters that resulted in two deaths during the October 7 street clashes near the Parliament: Deputy Police Chief Pol. Gen. Jongrak Juthanond, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Pol. Lt-Gen Suchart Muenkaew and Deputy Metropolitan Police Commissioner Pol. Maj-Gen. Amnuay Nimmano. Additionally, the PAD called for the 'Truth Today' TV news talk to be banned from being broadcast. (TNA)
Vote - New Prime Minister on Monday, December 15
BANGKOK, December 11, 2008
(TNA)
Thailand's House of Representatives will vote for a new prime minister on Monday after His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej approved a royal decree for an extraordinary session of Parliament, according to House Speaker Chai Chidchob. "The meeting is scheduled on Monday at 9:30 am," the House Speaker said on Thursday. Earlier, the Democrat Party gathered names of all its MPs in the House of Representatives for submission to the House Speaker to petition his opening of an extraordinary session of Parliament to elect a new prime minister. The rival Democrat and the Puea Thai parties are now vying to form a new government, with both claiming they have enough Members of Parliament on their side to form a new government. The new prime minister will succeed Somchai Wongsawat, who was barred from politics for five years by the Constitution Court on December 2 in last year's electoral fraud case. The court ruling also dissolved the ruling People Power Party (PPP) and two of its coalition partners -- the Chart Thai and Machimathipataya parties. (TNA)
Four small parties to form coalition government with Democrats
But can it work when it fell through before?
A potential horror story for Thailand's future -
Democrats stooping to Newin's level.
BANGKOK, December 9, 2008
(TNA)
In an attempt to ease political 'confusions' in Thailand, four small political parties which formerly were coalition parties in the ruling government reasserted their intent to join the Democrat Party in forming a coalition government. The former coalition government was comprised of the People Power Party (PPP), as the core of the coaltion, and the Chart Thai, Puea Pandin, Ruam Jai Thai Chart Pattana, Pracharat and Matchimatipataya parties. The Puea Thai Party, a new party set up recently to absorb the PPP legislators who have been forced to seek a new political home after the Constitution Court on December 2 ordered the dissolution of the PPP and two allied parties in the coalition -- the Chart Thai and the Matchimathipataya parties -- relating to fraud conducted during the general election held in December last year. The executives of the three parties, including former prime minister Somchai Wongsawat, were forced to leave their posts and are not allowed to enter politics for five years. MPs of the dissolved parties have 60 days to join a new party. Senior officials of the four parties -- the Chart Thai Pattana (formerly Chart Thai), Puea Pandin, Ruam Jai Thai Chart Pattana, and MPs of the disbanded Matchimatipataya parties told a joint press conference after a meeting that they would stand firm on their commitment announced on Saturday that they would join Democrat to form the new government and support Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva as the new prime minister. They also affirmed they had decided to work together from now on and agreed to commit to not contesting with one another in the by-election coming soon. They would allow a party whose member won in the previous general election, held in December last year, but was stripped later due to electoral fraud charges, to field a new candidate to run in a by-election. Caretaker deputy prime minister Maj-Gen. Sanan Kajornprasart, chief adviser of the defunct Chart Thai Party, now Chart Thai Pattana, said Mr. Abhisit would be first choice for Prime Minister but all the four parties would reconsider if Mr. Abhisit cannot become prime minister. The Puea Thai Party charged Mr. Abhisit, of evading army conscription. He was studying overseas when he was 18, at which age all Thai men must register for military service. But Mr. Abhisit had argued that he was not a draft dodger because he later served in the military as a lecturer at the military academy. The House of Representatives is expected to open next week for an extraordinary session to elect a new prime minister. (TNA)
BANGKOK, December 7, 2008
(TNA)
Democrat Bravado Claims Victory
Thailand [reportedly] moved closer Sunday to resolving its ongoing political impasse as former Ministry of Interior permanent secretary Yongyuth Vichaidit was elected to lead the newly-formed Pheu Thai Party (PTP) and try to form a new government. The Democrat Party, however, is confident that it can effectively join with members of parliament from smaller parties which were allied with the PTP's predecessor party in the previous government to set up a new administration, bringing the Democrats out of opposition. Mr. Yongyuth's nomination for the leadership of PTP, set up recently to absorb members of parliament (MPs) from the now defunct People Power Party (PPP), was unchallenged. The PTP also received applications from MPs of the three dissolved political parties wishing to join it. The PPP, formerly the ruling party of former prime minister Somchai Wongsawat, and two other parties in the coalition government were disbanded following the verdict Tuesday by the Constitutional Court that party leaders committed fraud during the general election held in December 2007. Executives of the three dissolved parties are now banned from entering politics for five years. However, rank-and-file members of parliament of the dissolved parties wishing to continue in political life must become members of new parties within 60 days, according to the Constitution. The PTP and the Democrat parties are competing to form a new government with members of both camps engaging in mud-slinging. Democrat Party secretary-general Suthep Thaugsuban reiterated Sunday that parties in the former government would join his party in establishing a new coalition government with Democrat leader Abhisit Vejjajiva as prime minister. He denied that military leaders were involved in forming the new government, but said that "old influential power groups" were on the scene and that money being offered to political parties in exchange for influence. Mr. Suthep said his party would "approach outsiders" to help administer the country if the Democrats are able to form a new coalition government. (TNA)
Youths Burn Nakhon Ratchasima Corrections Center
NAKHON RATCHASIMA, December 6, 2008
(TNA)
About 500 detained young men residents of a juvenile detention centre went berserk late Friday following the appointment of a new director whom they claimed was overly strict. The rampaging youth burned three buildings located inside a juvenile detention centre in this northeastern province, a senior police officer said Saturday. Pol. Col. Pongdej Prom-michit, deputy police chief of Nakhon Ratchasima, said the incident took place when detainees at the centre became wild and destroyed over 10 buildings at the centre, three being totally damaged. Three structures -- an office building, a reception building and a training center -- were burned to the ground. Damages were initially estimated at Bt20-30 million. A total of 66 youths escaped during the violence but 34 were again taken into custody, Col. Col. Pongdej said, but 32 are still at large. Parents and relatives of the 32 youths still on the run have been urged by the authorities to help locate the delinquent youths, he said, and encourage the young men to return to custody. The violence erupted after youths at the centre were dissatisfied with the appointment of a new director, Tassanawilai Krainara, whom they said was too strict as she did not permit programme participants to bring anything except clothes to the centre. Mrs. Tassanawilai has declined to talk to journalists. (TNA)
Suvarnabhumi International Airport Resumes Full Service
BANGKOK, December 5, 2008
(TNA)
Thailand's main airport, Suvarnabhumi International Airport, officially resumed full service again at 11am on December 5 after thousands of anti-government protesters ended their siege at the airport on Wednesday, with happy passengers lining up at check-in counters since 6am, altogether in a festive atmosphere. Traditionally-clad dancers and rural kathin players beating gongs and drums greeted departing passengers with apologies from the people of Thailand, in elegant processions organised by the Ministry of Culture. The first three flights were provided by Thai Airways International, Thai Air Asia, and Bangkok Airways, while varied international airlines were to gradually resume their flights later in the day, with it being expected that a total of more than 100 flights would operate Friday. Only a few problems was reported including the flight schedule screen displayed outdated information for example, "cancelled" while some flight was slightly delayed. Acting Transport Minister Santi Prompat had inspected the readiness of the airport as officials from many agencies including the Department of Civil Aviation, the International Civil Aviation Organisation, the International Air Transport Association and the Airport Operation Committee who together observed the airport in operation on Friday morning to ensure passenger safety and security. Customs Department director general Uthit Thammawathin said the department – and Thailand -- had suffered the loss of revenue from taxes and duties amounting to hundreds of million baht as many cargo shipments were stranded because of the closure of Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports. The director-general said he has instructed the customs officials to strictly inspect the cargo as the smugglers may take this opportunity to smuggle or transfer illegal goods during the time the officials tried to clear the stranded cargo.
BANGKOK, December 4, 2008
(TNA)
His Majesty To Forego Birthday Speech Due To Illness
Thailand's revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej failed to deliver his traditional birthday-eve speech to the nation Thursday due to his ill health, the crown prince announced on Thursday. HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn made the announcement in a national address broadcast via national radio that a mild illness prompted his father to be unable to deliver the speech on the eve of his 81st birthday. "His Majesty asked me to thank you on his behalf for the best wishes given and to wish his subjects to stay physically and mentally strong to perform their duties,'' the crown prince said. The crown prince's sister, HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, said the king's condition is mild. "His Majesty has a throat infection but no fever. He is now on a saline drip with poor appetite," the princess said. On the eve of his annual birthday, King Bhumibol, who has been reigning in the country for 62 years, usually delivers his speech to senior government officials, representatives of the legislative and judicial branches as well as well-wishers across the spectrum of society who were granted an audience at a ceremonial throne hall to wish him a happy birthday. Thais cherish the monarch's sage advice with utmost importance and they usually return the king's goodwill with love and devotion. The world's longest-reigning monarch played a crucial role in resolving national crises, providing counsel and moral support to his subjects for decades. His speeches over the past few years have focused on national unity amid a continuing political crisis between government supporters and opponents which has dragged on for years. (TNA)
Suvarnabhumi Airport ready to resume full service Friday
SAMUT PRAKAN, December 4, 2008
(TNA)
Suvanabhumi Airport will be fully functional on December 5 from 11am onwards, according to Serirat Prasutanond, director of Suvarnabhumi Airport, after thousands of anti-government protesters ended their siege at the airport on Wednesday. However, the airport has already opened to serve passengers for inbound and outbound flights Thursday, although outbound passengers must report at temporary check-in counters at the Bangkok International Trade and Exhibition Centre (BITEC) in Bangna on the eastern approaches to Bangkok. The check-in counters were moved to BITEC to facilitate passengers departing via U-Tapao, the military airport which temporarily replaced Suvarnabhumi, which was shut down by protesters from November 25 to December 3. AoT will be able to resume full operation of the check-in counter system on Friday at about 11am. Mr. Serirat, who is also acting president of the Airports of Thailand (AoT) said that a total of 101 flights from a number of airlines had already informed the airport authorities for their aircraft to land and take off at Suvarnabhumi Airport. He said that the airport invited officials from many agencies including the Department of Civil aviation, the International Civil Aviation Organisation, the International Air Transport Association and the Airport Operation Committee to observe the airport in operation on Friday morning to ensure passenger safety and security. (TNA)
BANGKOK, December 2, 2008
(TNA)
Constitutional Court Strips Thaksin Brother-in-Law PM From Office
Anti-government protest leaders officially announced they would end their week-long siege of Bangkok’s two main airports on Wednesday morning. Sondhi Limthongkul, a key People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) leader, announced victory after the Constitution court stripped Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat of his post and dissolved the ruling People Power Party and its coalition partners the Matchimatipataya Party and Chart Thai Party for electoral fraud during elections in December 2007. Serirat Prasutanont, chief of the Suvarnabhumi airport and acting director of Airports of Thailand (AoT), said the AoT needed to clean up and inspect security and damage at both Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports. Suvarnabhumi would remain closed until December 15, he said. [Note: This date was advanced to 5 December by Airport authorities.] Cargo services resumed operation on Tuesday, with eight cargo-flights landing at Suvarnabhumi airport in the evening. Mr. Serirat reiterated Thai people should never use airports as a tool for political strategy. Meanwhile, PAD protesters were still occupying the airport areas. The airport was shut down since last Tuesday after PAD protesters stormed the terminal and blocked the runways. The shut down has left hundreds of thousands of foreign travellers stranded in Thailand. (TNA)
Thai Government Forced To Dissolve By Courts
BANGKOK, December 2, 2008
(TNA)
The ongoing political turbulence in Thailand entered a new phase Tuesday after the Constitutional Court judged that the ruling People Power Party (PPP), headed by embattled Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, and two parties in his coalition were guilty of electoral fraud in last December's general election, and ordered them dissolved. Under the 2007 constitution, written by appointees of the September 2006 coupmakers, senior executives of the PPP and two other parties -- Chart Thai and Matchimathipataya -- would be banned from politics for five years. MPs of the three parties must move to new parties within 60 days in order to retain their parliamentary seats. The court ruled to convict the senior executives of the three coalition parties of vote buying in the general election held in December 2007. Mr. Somchai did not attend the court session but presided over the weekly Cabinet meeting, convened in the northern province of Chiang Mai. He will also have to leave his office. But Yuenyat Jaisamut, a lawyer of PPP, said before the verdict was made that his party would not accept the court ruling because no formal advance notice was given to PPP that the verdict, instead of being handed down at the Constitutional Court, would be given at the Administrative Court building. Charging that the Constitutional Court had no right to move the site of the ruling and that such a change of venue was against the law, Mr. Yuenyat said the accused officers of the PPP were unable to appear for the ruling. For that reason, he said, the party considered the ruling to be null and void. The Court decided to move the site to the Administrative Court after angry government supporters gathered at the Constitutional Court since early in the day on Tuesday in a bid to pressure and prevent the nine judges from attending the session. Soon after the verdict was issued, government spokesman Natthawut Saikuea said the three remaining parties in the coalition government would carry on forming a coalition government. Acknowledging the Court's verdict, Mr. Somchai said tersely that he had "done everything for the happiness (of the people) of Thailand". (TNA)
1,000 Outgoing Passengers Per Hour...
Thai Tourism Minister Weerasak Kowsurat in spoof photo...Readers
note that he is deputy leader of the Chart Thai Party which is very
possibly to be dissolved this week. His party leader, known for
distributing vote payments, is known as Mr. ATM.
International Balloon Festival in NE
(Click on image for website) Given the country's current impasse between the People's Alliance for Democracy and the government, which has led to airport closures, will participants and observers be able to make it to this colorful festival?
BANGKOK, December 1, 2008
(TNA)
Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports assured on Monday all 240,000 stranded passengers could board flights to their destinations within 10 days as Vietnam war-era U-tapao naval airport has been serving a great number of inbound and outbound passengers. The anti-government People's Alliance for Democracy protesters continue to occupy Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport and Don Mueang airports. The two airports have been closed since early last week, causing tens of thousands of international travellers to be stranded while thousands of Thais abroad are unable to return home. U-tapao security chief Captain Somnuek Kaewmarerng said about 400 flights had so far used the U-tapao Naval airport, carrying 50,000 passengers. Check-in counters at Bitec exhibition center in Bangna were now up and running around the clock to accommodate more passengers to check in for their flights and board buses to U-Tapao airport. Passengers are advised to arrive at Bi-Tec 7 hours before their flight departure time. All check-in locations at six hotels in Bangkok, meanwhile, were closed on Monday. Minister of Tourism and Sports Weerasak Kowsurat said another check in location at Muang Thong Thani will be ready by Wednesday. It will serve passengers leaving for Nakorn Ratchasima airport which can accommodate three Boeing 737s at one time. Bangkok Airways will operate 2 departing flights daily from Hua Hin airport departing at 2 pm and 5 pm to Samui airport for passengers to connect to Hong Kong. All foreign passengers falling sick are eligible for free medical care at all private or public hospitals, according to the Public Health Minister Chalerm Yubumrung. (TNA)
BANGKOK, December 1, 2008
(Thai New Agency)
'Sitting Ducks' Decide To Move - to Airport!
Frequent grenade and shooting attacks in recent weeks on the anti-Somchai government Peoples' Alliance for Democracy (PAD) protesters occupying Government House since August 26, the long-standing occupation of Thailand's seat of government was lifted Monday, not as a change of heart regarding the policy, but to reinforce their fellow protesters at the capital's two airports. Retired Maj-Gen. Chamlong Srimuang, a key PAD leader, told protesters occupying Government House that it is better for them to leave the compound and join their PAD compatriots occupying Don Mueang domestic airport and Suvarnabhumi Airport, but for their personal safety and because the airports are more politically sensitive than the traditional centre of government. Demonstrating at the two airports has proven more effective than staying at Government House, Gen. Chamlong said. It was unclear whether PAD security guards will continue to occupy Government House. The protesters seized Government House on August 26, forcing his predecessor and the prime minister's staff to leave the compound. Mr. Somchai and his staff moved to Don Mueang airport, Bangkok's former international port of entry, the temporary site of the national government, but it was occupied by the protesters last Wednesday. By Monday afternoon, most protesters had left Government House and headed to the two airports. The protesters have demanded that Mr. Somchai resign unconditionally and not amend the 2007 charter. Meanwhile, security measures at Don Mueang airport have been tightened as police have joined PAD security personnel to patrol the area to prevent any third party from launching any violent attacks. Air Force commander-in-chief Air Chief Marshal Ittiporn Suppawong said he and his subordinates will help transport stranded foreigners so that they could return to their home countries. In echoing Army chief Gen. Anupong Paochinda's earlier request for Mr. Somchai to resign and return power to the people by holding a general election, ACM Ittiporn said the prime minister should resign because he has no office now and the country would suffer more as long as he stays on. On reports that pro-government supporters may be dissatisfied with whatever rulings to be made Tuesday by the Constitution Court which might dissolve three political parties, including the ruling People Power Party headed by Mr. Somchai, ACM Ittiporn said it is the duty of police to provide security and take severe action against lawbreakers. (TNA)
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