State of emergency backfires on govt
Written by Admin on Saturday, September 6th, 2008
NEWS THINK
State of emergency backfires on govt
KING-OUA LAOHONG
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej has imposed a state of emergency covering Bangkok for five days, but enforcement around Government House has been non-existent. Controlled by the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), the area could have been the spark for unparalleled violence had its protest been broken up with force.
No doubt many around the country are relieved, as they are not prepared to tolerate any more public disorder.
The decree prohibits gatherings of more than five people, any activity or broadcasting that affects government stability and the use of transport routes or any buildings that the government specifies.
It came into force following Tuesday’s clash between anti-government PAD supporters and members of the pro-government United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) that killed one person and injured many others.
It was alleged some government MPs were behind the move by UDD supporters to go to Government House which led to the clash. This was one reason for the decree being imposed.
But the decree has backfired as it has angered many Thais. Consequently more people, including students, have joined the PAD at Government House.
Members of state labour unions have also taken leave in order to join the protest.
PAD supporters inside the Government House compound and in the streets outside still sing and chant and snap up trinkets and other products identified with the anti-government movement.
Nowhere is there any indication they will abide by the decree order to disband and leave.
Mr Samak must be befuddled as to why so many, especially business people and the middle class, are not siding with his government as the PAD demonstration is affecting the national economy.
He is also no doubt determined not to bow to the protesters as in his opinion his government has done nothing wrong during its seven months in office and former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and wife Khunying Potjaman, who are the PAD’s main targets, are for the moment out of the picture.
But it is obvious Army chief Gen Anupong Paojinda is not on the same wavelength as Mr Samak.
The prime minister’s decision early Thursday not to resign or dissolve the House therefore probably came as no surprise to Gen Anupong, academics and other observers.
The decision just reflects the true nature of Mr Samak who will never compromise.
Though having the crowds to back its demand for an end to the government, the PAD cannot ignore the fact that it must be flexible and not lead the nation into a deadlock.
Although the executive decree covering the administration of emergency situations has not been strictly enforced, this does not mean there is nothing to worry about.
If matters reach boiling point again, the parties in conflict must agree to look for a peaceful solution without anyone trying to change the national administration.
It’s the only way to minimise the chances of damage.
But if no one accepts a compromise solution and any party tries to enforce the emergency decree, Thailand will face a very damaging future.
