Announcement on the Use of the Internal Security Act in Three Districts of Bangkok

(23/11/2012)

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has announced the use of the 2008 Internal Security Act in three districts of Bangkok, effective from 22 to 30 November 2012. The three districts include Phra Nakhon, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, and Dusit. The announcement came after the Cabinet on 22 November decided to impose the Internal Security Act in the three districts following a proposal by the National Security Council. At the same time, the Government has set up the Law and Order Administrative Center under the command of the Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police. The move to announce the act and set up the center came after the anti-government Pitak Siam group, led by retired General Boonlert Kaewprasit, had planned a mass rally on Saturday, 24 November 2012. The demonstration, to be held at the Royal Plaza in Bangkok, is seen by the Government to pose a threat to national security. Appearing on the television through the TV Pool of Thailand at 8:40 p.m. on 22 November, Prime Minister Yingluck explained to the public the reasons behind the Government’s decision to announce the use of the Internal Security Act. She stated that the measures that have been put in place in accordance with the law are to preempt and prevent any situations in a most timely and effective manner. The operation center was set up to ensure an integrated and coordinated approach among all agencies involved, should there arise any incidents that may threaten the well-being of civilians in any particular area. The measures and mechanisms to control the exercise of authorities will be proportionate to the situation. These measures are to be discontinued as soon as the situation improves. The Prime Minister said, “I would like to emphasize that the Government fully adheres to the democratic system of government with the monarchy as Head of State. The Government believes in freedom of expression and is convinced that the Parliament is the place for the people’s representatives to settle differences in viewpoints and resolve political conflicts. This is the appropriate channel in accordance with democratic rule. The Parliament also has the duty of monitoring the work of the Government, as demonstrated by the no-confidence motion that will take place in the next few days. On my part, I stand ready to listen to the diversity of view and offer my explanations in accordance with the democratic parliamentary system.” “Public gatherings and protests, especially those arising from public grievances, is provided for and protected by the Constitution. But such public gatherings must be peaceful, without the use of weapons, and within the boundaries of the law. I am ready to listen to any ideas and proposals, and to work together to solve any problems.” “But if a large number of people are mobilized by incitement, led by those who seek to overthrow an elected government and democratic rule -- which is against the Constitution -- and there is evidence that violence may be used to achieve those ends, then this is a case of national security. It is the government’s duty to preserve law and order, protect the lives and property of everyone -- including those who are protesting and those who are not involved. But most importantly, the government must protect the democratic system under the constitutional monarchy.” Prime Minister Yingluck added that she remained committed to restoring peace and stability in Thailand. She believed that reducing political conflicts and promoting national reconciliation are vital to economic development and to enhance the lives of all Thais, regardless of their race, religion, social status, or political stance.