Maj Gen Khattiya, Thaksin unhappy with reconciliation plan

BANGKOK, May 9 (TNA) — Army Specialist Maj-Gen Khattiya Sawasdipol is trying hard to prolong the ongoing anti-government rally in the Thai capital and oppose the five-point national reconciliation plan, said Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva on Sunday.

Urging people from every sector to join the national reconciliation plan he proposed last Monday, Mr Abhisit said during his weekly TV and radio address that Gen Khattiya have clearly shown themselves to oppose the plan.

Gen Khattiya, now suspended from duty for criticising his superiors, is frequently seen directing security measures for anti-government protesters of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) now occupying Ratchaprasong and Sala Daeng intersections, Bangkok’s prime business districts.

Ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra is also dissatisfied with the plan because it does not offer him any benefit, Mr Abhisit said.  Self-exiled Thaksin was ousted in a bloodless coup in September 2006 and was sentenced to two years in jail in 2008 for breaking a conflict-of-interest law.

Mr Abhisit said it is risky for key leaders of UDD who have supported his reconciliation plan which includes holding fresh general elections November 14, but are still demonstrating because armed terrorists infiltrating ghe protesters would use fiercer violence in future.

“If key UDD leaders have confirmed that they will participate in the reconciliation plan, they should cease the rally for the safety of every group of people,” said Mr Abhisit.

The prime minister said a national community strengthening committee will convene Wednesday and Thursday to set guidelines for formation of a Thailand Reform Assembly whose members will comprise people recognised by society. The committee will function on a continuous basis even though there is a change of government.

As political turmoil continues in Thailand, the European Union (EU) Heads of Mission to Thailand and EU member countries here issued a statement saying that they welcome efforts made by the government and all parties concerned towards finding a negotiated solution to the current political situation.

“We call on all sides to refrain from violence and hope that an early peaceful solution can be achieved to swiftly lead Thailand back towards national reconciliation, prosperity and stability, with full respect for the rule of law and democratic principles,” the EU statement said. (TNA)