"Thailand backs off threat of using force to disperse protesters" by Associated Press | June 1, 2008
BANGKOK - About 1,000 riot police assembled at an antigovernment demonstration in Bangkok yesterday after the prime minister warned that he would use force to disperse thousands gathered to demand his resignation.
But two police deadlines for the demonstration to break up passed without the crowd showing any signs of disbanding. "We will not be using force as long as the protesters remain peaceful and they conduct themselves within the law," Interior Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung said later in the day.
About 3,000 people gathered early yesterday near the United Nations building and the Grand Palace in Bangkok, blocking a major downtown road.
"I am urging the people to stay away from the rally site now, as police and soldiers are preparing to use force to disperse the mobs," Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej of Thailand said in a nationwide television address in the morning. "I cannot accept this. The police and soldiers will not accept it either."
He made the comments amid rumors that Thailand could have its second military coup in two years. Samak's government took power in February after elections meant to restore democracy to the country, but the protesters say he is a puppet for former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in a 2006 coup.
WTF?!!!
I guess ruling elites ALWAYS have ALL BASES covered, huh?
Who knew?
It is a COUP FOOLEY, hey!!!!
Riot police along with hundreds of other security officials were deployed near the rally site. Four firetrucks and several ambulances were parked nearby.
The demonstrators, led by the People's Alliance for Democracy, waved flags. Some wore helmets and masks, apparently to protect themselves in case tear gas was used.
More: PEOPLE POWER, THAI STYLE
The demonstrators have been holding sometimes-violent protests over the past week.
Past week? First I've seen of it in the AmeriKan MSM!!!
Samak has been accused of trying to change the military-backed constitution to hold onto power and to prevent Thaksin from facing corruption-related charges. After Samak's statement, Supreme Commander Boonsang Niempradit confirmed that the military had been put on standby.
The People's Alliance for Democracy spearheaded mass protests in 2006 that led to the coup that ousted Thaksin, who returned from exile this year.
Tensions eased somewhat Friday when a Thai minister accused of insulting the country's king announced his resignation. Jakrapob Penkair, a minister attached to the prime minister's office, stepped down amid growing coup rumors as the army and opposition parties escalated their verbal attacks on him."Must be one coming then; otherwise, why would the newspaper be tipping you off?
This will be big news soon -- mark my words -- as the China and Burma coverage fade.
How much you wanna bet?
