Foreign envoys invited to observe Democracy Monument rally

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BANGKOK, Dec 17 – Foreign diplomats will be invited to observe first-hand the anti-government demonstration at the Democracy Monument tomorrow, a leading protester said today.

Akanat Promphan, spokesman of the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC), said the group has never contemplated occupying foreign embassies in Bangkok but would rather enhance relationships with them.

He called on the Thai people to wait for a signal from protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban on another round of massive demonstrations to press for a national reform before the general election is held. The snap poll is set for February 2.

Mr Akanat said several countries have better understanding on the PDRC’s principles and its determination to reform Thailand following the group’s clarifications to the foreign media.

Mr Akanat said the Defence Ministry has yet to understand the PDRC’s principles of adhering to the Constitution and democratic system but the group insisted on a national reform before the next general election is held.

If not, the country will remain chaotic and the vicious cycle will return, he said, calling on Permanent Secretary for Defence Nipat Thonglek to show responsibility for tarnishing the military’s reputation and giving a contradictory opinion from the supreme commander who emphasised neutrality.

Gen Nipat told a government-sponsored forum on political resolutions on Sunday that the armed forces agreed with a fresh election after which the national reform will take place.

The government is holding the second forum which Mr Akanat described an attempt to buy time, claiming that proposed resolutions in the forum would be prepared in advance.