BANGKOK, 6 January 2014 Deputy Prime Minister Phongthep Thepkanjana has urged those who are interested in joining the January 13 demonstrations to reconsider, saying that a reform must take place “after” the general election.
Mr. Phongthep stated that according to his evaluations and judgement of the current movement of the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC), he believes that the planned January 13 shutdown will violate other people’s rights and freedom.
Moreover, shutting down Bangkok will have adverse effects on the economy. Mr. Phongthep therefore has urged those who are thinking to join the demonstrations to reconsider.
In addition, the issuance of Emergency Decree is the duty of the state to maintain peace and order. The government will enforce the decree only at the suggestion of the National Security Council. He further stated that the prime minister has also held a meeting to determine the appropriate measures to handle the upcoming protests.
The state, according to Mr. Phongthep, is trying its best to remain neutral – adding that a reform must come after the election and not before.
