CHANTABURI, Nov 7 – Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has pleaded for public trust in her government and gave assurances that all amnesty-related legislation would be shot down.
Speaking to reporters during her visit to this eastern province yesterday, she reiterated the government’s stand seeking reconciliation among Thai people and vowed to carry on her efforts to coordinate moving toward peace and unity in the country.
Now that the Senate has resolved not to vote for the amnesty bill, the government whips have consequently declared to vote against the legislation, she said.
The Pheu Thai Party has decided on a concrete resolution not to reconsider the amnesty bill, she said.
“We are a government of the people. We listen to the people’s voice and opinions. We are not stubborn and we intend to maintain peace in the country,” said the premier.
Ms Yingluck gave assurances that the government would not order violent action against protesters and officials have been instructed to be patient and avoid clashes.
She said the government would not issue a royal decree after the amnesty bill is buried, adding that she has never talked to her brother, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, on political issues.
Asked if Mr Thaksin should stop talking to enable the government to work, she said his verbal statements were not relevant to the administration of the government whose duty is to work for the people.
Mr Thaksin issued a statement through his legal adviser yesterday, saying he respected differences of opinions among Thai people but could not tolerate the distorted and false attacks against himself and his family in the last several years.
He said his ultimate desire was to let Thai people enjoy better lives and feel secure with a steady future.
Ms Yingluck said a dissolution of Parliament, if at all, would not solve the problems but the best way is for all parties concerned to talk with one another and come to an understanding and minimise conflicts.
Whether the government will complete its four-year term depends on the people’s mandate, she said.
