PM stresses protesters cannot invade Govt House tomorrow

BANGKOK, 24 January 2011 (NNT) – Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has confirmed that security measures have been prepared for the yellow and red shirt rallies tomorrow, reiterating that both of them will be strictly prohibited from entering the Government House.

To deal with the planned gatherings of the yellow-clad People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) as well as the 24 June Group of the red-clad United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD) on 25 January, PM Abhisit stated that his deputy Suthep Thaugsuban had discussed with National Police Chief Pol Gen Wichien Pojphosri about the peace-keeping operations. As the two rivaling groups announced that they would demonstrate at the Government House and surrounding areas, the main goal for the officials is to separate them and keep any clashes at bay.

Mr Abhisit warned all protesters not to trespass on the Government House compound or block the entrances and exits, reminding them that such action would breach the law and stern actions would be taken against violators.

Regarding the PAD’s demand for the government to withdraw Thailand from the World Heritage Committee, revoke the 2000 MOU and drive Cambodian nationals out of the disputed border area, the Prime Minister explained that, by doing so, monumental damages and loss of territory could be incurred while hostility between the two neighboring nations could erupt. He noted that he would be willing to listen to the demonstrators as long as their requests are legitimate.