Bangkok: Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, has voiced concerns over the escalating insurgency in Thailand's southern border provinces, urging the Prime Minister to provide clear policy direction to address the issue. He plans to raise an urgent question in parliament, stressing the need for a comprehensive strategy that includes security measures, law enforcement, and dialogue.
According to Thai News Agency, Abhisit highlighted the unrest in the three southern border provinces where multiple attacks occurred recently. He offered condolences to the injured, including civilians and security personnel, and noted that the Democrat Party has been closely monitoring the situation since the elections. Abhisit mentioned that during the policy statement, he cautioned the government about the potential for conflict following an attempted assassination of an MP. He criticized the government's policy statement on the southern border provinces as being too brief and lacking depth, merely focusing on understanding, accessibility, and development.
In response, the National Security Council briefed parliament, reiterating the goal of achieving peace by the following year. The initial plan included troop withdrawal, which the Democrat Party had warned might not happen. The peace talks process, for which the government had set up a working group, was postponed after an incident in Narathiwat province, as the government shifted its focus to enforcing the law and apprehending the perpetrators. Another attack occurred last night, which Abhisit perceives as symbolic of the complexities in the region.
Abhisit emphasized that the Democrat Party seeks clarity on government policy to aid military and officials in their efforts. While security measures and law enforcement are necessary for the safety of the people, he insists these should be complemented by other policies to effectively address the underlying issues. This week, the Democrat Party will inform the People's Party, the leading opposition, of its intention to submit an urgent interpellation to the Prime Minister. Abhisit insists that only the Prime Minister can provide the necessary policy direction, as delegating this responsibility could lead to miscommunication.
Source: Thai News Agency
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