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While continuing past into its fifth day, demonstrations led by the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) have continued largely peacefully, as protesters carry on their rallies mostly in areas along Radjadamnern Avenue in Bangkok. The Government and protest leaders have been in contact to avoid any misunderstanding or confrontation which could cause the situation to escalate. Meanwhile, the Government has continued to keep the public informed of the situation through various media, including through the newly launched website www.capothai.org. It has also maintained open access for the press to follow developments to ensure transparency.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, on 16 March 2010, expressed his appreciation to the demonstrators for carrying out their activities in a peaceful and orderly manner. He also reiterated the Government's stand that it would exercise utmost restraint, not use force against the demonstrators exercising their right in accordance with the law, and not create any conditions that could lead to confrontation or violence. He also added that the Government had no intentions of declaring an emergency situation as rumoured. Although the number of demonstrators has apparently decreased, the Government would not be complacent but would continue to monitor closely the situation. In addition, the authorities stand ready to facilitate the demonstrators’ return home if they so wish.
As for the protesters' continued demand for dissolution of the House of Representatives, Prime Minister Abhisit said that such a demand is not the best solution for the country, noting that dissolution of the House must be in accordance with the democratic principles and based on conditions that would really enable the country to move forward. Such conditions, however, do not yet exist as there remain concerns of violence should elections be called, while the rules for the elections, which are mutually acceptable to all sides, remain to be settled. Nevertheless, the Government is ready to listen and exchange views with them, and given that any decision concerns all Thai people – not just the Government or the protesters – it should be made on a basis of broad-based views.
For tourists visiting or planning to visit Thailand, it should be noted that the demonstrations have not affected popular tourist destinations, particularly those outside of Bangkok, nor the safety of foreign tourists as foreigners have never been targeted in the on-going political conflict. The country's transportation system, including all its airports, operates normally. The Government has made it clear that while the constitutional right to peaceful assembly will be respected, the authorities would take action, in accordance with international standards, should the demonstrators attempt to blockade government buildings or key locations, including airports. The Government considers the well-being of the public, including those of foreign visitors, as a matter of utmost importance and will continue to step up measures, as necessary, to ensure their safety.
Be that as it may, members of the public are advised to remain vigilant, particularly in areas where protesters may gather, and occasional traffic congestions could be expected in certain parts of Bangkok. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has a 24-hour English language hotline at 1672 to provide tourists with further information. The tourist police can also be reached at 1155.
In addition, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a 24-hour operation centre, which can provide foreigners with further information at +662-575-1023, +662-981-7225, +66-88-022-1540 or +66-88-022-1541
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the development in the political situation
