Thailand: Moving Ahead with Political Reform

Thailand: Moving Ahead with Political Reform

On 24 April 2009, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva announced the revocation of the severe emergency situation in the areas of Bangkok and its vicinities, declared on 12 April 2009 in accordance with the Emergency Decree on Public Administration in Emergency Situations B.E. 2548 (2005). The Government has decided to do so as it deems that the situation has returned to normalcy and that the authorities concerned are able to employ normal legal measures to address the situation without requiring any additional powers or measures under the Emergency Decree. At the same time, the Government and the authorities concerned will continue to be vigilant and ensure peace and order as well as safety of the public including foreign visitors in Thailand.

In addition, following the general debate at a joint sitting of the National Assembly on 22-23 April 2009, convened upon the request by the Government, Prime Minister Abhisit, with a view to ensuring transparency and accountability of the Government’s actions and to clearing any remaining doubts, proposed that the President of the National Assembly set up a committee with the participation of all parties concerned to look further into and consider complaints regarding operations by security officers. The Prime Minister also asked the designated coordinators in the House of Representatives and the Senate to consult with the National Assembly President regarding the composition of such a committee.

In efforts to address the on-going political problems as well as demands relating to democracy and constitution amendment, the Prime Minister has reiterated his intention to move forward a political reform process to be participated by all interested parties, as part of his policy to bridge political differences and achieve reconciliation. He has also asked all political parties to compile problems concerning unfairness in the various provisions of the Constitution, so that these can be discussed and social consensus found on how to amend those provisions and what steps to take further.

At the same time, the Government will continue to press ahead with legal action against those who broke the law in accordance with due process and on the basis of non-discrimination and justice for all concerned. This applies both to recent disturbances as well as those committed last year.

Source: Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

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