Summary of Interview of HE PM

On 11 December 2013, 17.00-17.35 hrs., HE PM gave an interview to foreign media (VOA, AFP, IPS, Bloomberg, New York Times and Channel 4 in the UK). Gist as follows:

·        In response to question as to what PM considers to be key principles of addressing current political crisis and promoting democracy, they are (1) respect for human rights and peaceful resolution, (2) respect for rule of law and (3) enforcement of the law.  These principles underscore need to pursue peaceful negotiations.

·        On political reform, PM believes that all Thai people must work together under the constitution.  PM stressed that political reform should contribute to sustaining democracy in Thailand.  Forum to discuss ways of bringing about reform should take place under the constitution.

·        In response to question on the so called “People’s Council” proposed by protestors, PM stressed the need to work under the constitution and therefore raised question as to how this idea can possibly be pursued under the current constitution. Furthermore, how could this proposed “Council” work in parallel with the constitution and who would endorse such a “Council”? Bottom line is that it is the people who should decide on political reform.

·         On dissolution of Parliament, PM states that this is part of democratic process under constitution and reflects effort of Government to prove its sincerity by letting the people decide.  Under the constitution, the National Election Commission would work to have elections within 60 days.

·        In response to question as to whether PM will run again for position of PM, PM states that this issue has not yet been considered as there is still time before political parties need to submit party list candidates.  At any rate, this issue will be considered by the Pheu Thai Party.

·        Regarding question as to why there has been no effort to arrest key protest leaders despite arrest warrants, PM reaffirms trust in the Royal Thai Police to perform its duties and will therefore not intervene. PM underscored need to support and implement rule of law, without which there would be no stability for Thailand.

·        On question as to whether the current protests reflect frustration of Thai people on issue of corruption, PM stresses the importance of fighting corruption and that Government is using existing mechanisms to address this issue including the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) which applies the rule of law.  Furthermore, it appears that there are a number of root causes that may have led to protests, so dialogue for reform under the constitution is one way to address them.

·        On issue of reconciliation and amnesty, PM referred to experiences of many other countries on reconciliation which usually includes common elements such as forgiveness, compensation and amnesty.  These are right concepts as seen in international practice.  What is important is to communicate effectively and explain these concepts so that people will understand them and to prevent use of these concepts as a political vehicle to cause confusion. 

·        On questions regarding military coup or judicial coup, PM believes that all will work under the constitution through the “normal track”.  Past experience clearly shows that military coups neither provide the answer nor resolve the problem.

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