Gov't won’t use force against protesters during planned mass rally

BANGKOK, Sept 11 -- Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said Saturday the government would not use force against the anti-government Red Shirt movement of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) when they rally to mark the fourth anniversary of the bloodless coup which toppled the former government of prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

UDD protesters plan to hold several events next week and especially on September 19 -- the date the military carried out its coup in Bangkok four years ago.

Mr Suthep said newly appointed national police chief Pol Gen Vichien Poteposri had submitted security plans to the Centre for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation which call for explaining to the protesters what they could do within the legal framework and what they cannot under the emergency decree which is now enforced in the capital.

Although the general situation in the country has improved, police will be dispatched to several areas to ensure that no untoward incidents take place, said Mr Suthep.

“No double standards will be employed against the protesters,” Mr Suthep reaffirmed. He said he was not worried much and that he hoped no violence would take place during the upcoming events as all concerned parties are now preparing to participate in the national reconciliation plan.

Asked whether he is ready to talk with former national police chief Pol Gen Kowit Wattana, who is tipped to become the new leader of the opposition Puea Thai Party, regarding the national reconciliation plan, Mr Suthep said he is prepared to discuss the matter with everybody to bring about reconciliation for the sake of peace in the country.

The Puea Thai Party is scheduled to hold a special meeting to elect a new leader and executive board on Tuesday. (MCOT online news)