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Bangkok Emergency lifted

SINGAPORE: Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat on Sunday revoked the state of Emergency, which was imposed on September 2 in the capital, Bangkok, to quell political unrest.

Asserting that “the situation is less serious” now, Mr. Somchai said the prolongation of Emergency might only “damage the country.” He made the announcement after holding talks with Army chief Anupong Paochinda, who, as the Emergency’s chief administrator, had ordered the troops not to use weapons to enforce the decree.

The Army did not seek to evict protesters, belonging to the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), from the premises of Government House, which they occupied. However, soldiers took steps to prevent any recurrence of clashes between the PAD protesters and pro-government activists.

A government supporter was killed in clashes between the two sides before the emergency was ordered.

Mr. Somchai expressed hope the Emergency’s revocation would now lead to “a better atmosphere” in the country’s politics.

Mr. Somchai has emerged as the front-runner to succeed Samak Sundaravej, who was disqualified as Prime Minister. The People’s Power Party (PPP), main constituent of the ruling coalition, has failed in its attempt to circumvent the judgement and “re-elect” Mr. Samak as Prime Minister.

And, the PPP’s alternative proposal to nominate Mr. Somchai has received support from the opposition Democrat Party.

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