Anti-govt demonstators to besiege Government House Friday

BANGKOK, June 20 (TNA) - The anti-government People's Alliance for
Democracy (PAD) vowed Thursday to seal off Government House Friday
afternoon and to stay put until the government resigns, even as Prime
Minister Samak Sundaravej reaffirmed that non-violent procedures would be used to handle the rally.

"We'll meet in front of Government House at one o'clock on Friday. Each
person may go there as an individual. It might take some time as the
police might block us, " said retired Maj-Gen. Chamlong Srimuang, one of
the key PAD leaders.

Suriyasai Katasila, the PAD's coordinator, said more than 100,000 people
from across the country were expected to join the peaceful gathering
Friday.

The PAD and its supporters have been demonstrating since May 25 in a bid
to pressure the four-month-old coalition government to resign, claiming
that Mr. Samak and his People Power Party are proxies of ousted prime
minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Samak chaired a meeting with the armed forces
commanders and top officials of the Internal Security Operations Command
(ISOC). He said he had instructed ISOC to adhere to the government's
policy and to maintain national security as a priority in their
performance.

Army Chief Anupong Paochinda added the army would not get involved or use
force against the crowds.

"It's the police who will take charge," said the Army chief. "I'm sure
they have proper measures to handle the situation."

Meanwhile the police have stepped up security, deploying twice as many
personnel to prepare for possible clashes.

Police Chief Pol.Gen. Patcharawat Wongsuwan said the police would use
non-violent measures and exercise the utmost patience.

The roads around Government House were sealed off at 8 pm Thursday night.
(TNA)