BANGKOK, 7 April 2013 The government has called on the Thai Patriots Network to rally peacefully during the public hearings in the Phra Viharn temple case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Surapong Tovichakchaikul said the Thai Patriots Network’s demonstration should not trigger violence or fuel further conflicts while holding its rally during April 15-19.
The planned rally was reportedly organized to coincide with the public hearings on the Phra Viharn Temple dispute between Thailand and Cambodia at the ICJ.
Mr. Surapong said the government has been trying to clarify the problem with the public all along and stated that the oral argument by Thai government’s representatives will be broadcast live on the NBT or Channel 11.
He also urged Thai people to closely monitor the proceedings while noting that a state-appointed team of lawyer has been set up to explain any sensitive issues in the case to public.
According to the Deputy PM, the Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs will deliver a statement on the Phra Viharn case on Channel 11, On 9 April.
Meanwhile, it is reported that members of the Thai Patriots Network has already traveled to Kantharalak District in Si Sa Ket Province, where the disputed temple is located, to hold a demonstration until the Thai representatives’ oral argument before the ICJ takes place.
