BANGKOK, 16 May 2014 – The Center for Administration of Peace and Order (CAPO)’s chief-advisor Surapong Tovichakchaikul has leaned towards the Army’s idea to declare martial law in order to prevent a civil war.
Mr. Surapong stated that should the political violence escalate beyond CAPO’s control, then the Army could enforce martial law, as it is different from a coup d’etat. He said that the CAPO would be monitoring the political situation closely, especially from May 17th to 19th during which the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) is planning to stage another mass rally.
Regarding the designation of a new prime minister based on Section 7 of the Constitution in order to form an interim government, Mr. Surapong said that the move was considered illegal as the law does not directly authorize the appointment of a new prime minister.
The CAPO chief-advisor is ready to sue the nine judges of the Constitution Court after they removed him from his post as foreign affairs minister following their verdict to impeach Ms. Yingluck as prime minister. In addition, Mr. Surapong would also file a lawsuit against the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for dereliction of duty on May 19th.
