BANGKOK, Nov 30 – The Thai army chief has called on anti-government protesters to refrain from using the monarchy as a political negotiation mechanism or coerce the army to take sides in the conflicts.
In an official statement released yesterday, Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha referred to protesters of the Students and People Network for Thailand’s Reform who intruded into the army headquarters and demanded that he clearly announced his stance in light of the political disputes.
Gen Prayuth said the army was obliged to protect the nation, religion, monarchy and people, and should not be pressured to take side in the conflicts.
The army has never followed any unlawful command while protesters should not instigate people to resort to violence – an act which could escalate conflicts in the country, he said.
He stressed that the army has avoided clashes with the people which may lead to injuries or deaths but that peace-keeping operations will be strengthened if the situation changes.
