THAILAND: Martial law to remain in key areas

Government may be forced to ease curbs in city, however

Bangkok Post
Thursday, November 9, 2006

By Wassana Nanuam and Anucha Charoenpo

Martial law is likely to remain in place in strategic Bangkok areas, 30 border provinces and some areas in the North and Northeast, a source has disclosed. The decision will be based on each army region's assessment of undercurrents against the Council for National Security (CNS) and the government, expected to be forwarded to the administration later this week, the source said.

The disclosure came on the eve of the National Legislative Assembly's (NLA) expected consideration today of a bill to repeal the order by the Council for Democratic Reform, now known as the CNS, banning the gathering of more than five people in public places.

NLA speaker Meechai Ruchupan said that political parties and the public would be able to return to political activities as normal if the NLA approves the bill to be submitted by the cabinet.

The CDR order issued on Sept 20, one day after the coup, was aimed at barring people from becoming involved in politics in the immediate aftermath of the coup.

CNS chairman Sonthi Boonyaratkalin ordered regional armies to assess undercurrents in their respective areas after Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont suggested the partial lifting of martial law imposed since Sept 19.

The CNS has been advised to maintain its grip on inner Bangkok, particularly at the Palace, the Royal Plaza and security agencies' headquarters. Sanam Luang will likely be spared from the law because it is easy to maintain order there.

"Concerning the country's image, the government may bow to pressure and lift the law in Bangkok. In such a case, other measures will be introduced," said the source.

First Army Region commander Prayuth Chan-ocha said movements in Bangkok remained light and under the army's close scrutiny.

Gatherings at Sanam Luang have remained peaceful, Lt-Gen Prayuth said, adding that Gen Sonthi has allowed expression of opinions but not to the point that triggered others to follow suit.

Date Posted: 11/9/2006

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