BANGKOK, 15 July 2015 – The Prime Minster has affirmed the new Public Gathering Act will be equally enforced on all population groups without restricting the public’s democratic principles, insisting that the law will yield benefits in the future.
The Prime Minster Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha has said that all groups will have to comply to the Public Gathering Act, which will come into effect in the next 30 days to ensure all gatherings are held within democratic principles and ensure the absence of violence. In other countries there are also laws similar to this one, the Prime Minister says.
He said that the public should not be alarmed about this law’s enforcement, as it will ensure that all future demonstrations will be peaceful and be held within their designated areas. Demonstration organizers must also clarify the number of participating protesters with authorities as well.
Regarding the invitation from the United Nations, the Prime Minister stated that he will express his vision on Thailand’s cooperation with the global communities, as invited in September, adding that he will not make remarks on the current administration or the subject of democracy.
He has also addressed the claim from a National Reform Council (NRC) member Gen Thawatchai Samutsakorn, that suggested two political parties were involved in the anti-government movement, saying that the followup and monitoring of this situation was the NRC and its related agencies’ responsibility.
