Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Source: AFP/VNA)
Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej urged his people to “think of the common good and Thai values in whatever you do” in his annual televised New Year address on December 31.“Everyone’s wishes are not very different. They want their own happiness and prosperity, as well as to live in a peaceful country”, the King said without directly referring to the current political crisis.
Meanwhile, Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on December 31 called for “peaceful solution” to political divisions. “The entire Thai People, regardless of political ideology or different beliefs, (should) turn toward each other to find a peaceful solution for our country,” she said in a New Year message on her official facebook page.
The opposition Democrat Party planned to open talks with different organisations and sectors of the society on how to reform the country on January 2, party spokesman Chavanond Intarakomalyasut announced on January 1.
The Democrats have decided to boycott the February 2 general election, demanding political reform beforehand.
Thailand ’s anti-governmental protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban on January 1 called a mass rally on January 13 to paralyze Bangkok .
The rally will begin at 9am on January 13, with stages set up at multiple intersections in the capital, Suthep was quoted by the Nation newspaper as saying. He also called protesters nationwide to start preparation now.
Many anti-government demonstrations have occurred in Bangkok over the recent weeks creating unstable political climate in the country. The situation has caused great concerns to international community.
VNA
