Update on the political situation in Thailand
September 18, 2008 – 10:01 am
Thailand’s 26th Prime Minister has been sworn in today. Thailand has elected Somchai Wongsawat, a 61 year old former judge and brother-in-law to the ousted leader Thaksin Shinawatra. It is not clear what affect if any this will have on the negotiations between anti-government protester’s and the government. However, only an hour after being elected Somchai called for national reconcilliation to end the political tensions which dates back to when Thaksin was first elected in 2005.
Demonstrators however, remain at the Prime Ministers compound. They have occupied this area for going on to three weeks now. Prime Minister Somchai has said he wants to negotiate and bring about a peaceful solution to the ease the tensions and stop the demonstrations within his official compound.
All other areas in Bangkok remain unaffected by the rally. There has been no significant disruption to life and business in the capital beyond added traffic congestion in a few areas. The vast majority of the city, including all the major tourist spots (including The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun-Temple of Dawn, and Sanam Luang – The Royal Ground), shopping centres and riverside attractions, as well as all roads and public/private transport systems are functioning normally. Bangkok’s city taxi and rail services are unaffected. All hotels and resorts in Bangkok and throughout Thailand are open for business as usual.
Bangkok’s international airport and all regional airports around Thailand are operating normally. Rail services in provincial areas of the north and northeastern regions are operating normally. All air and land transport services, restaurants and business are operating on schedule whether for business or pleasure, visitors can as always look forward to a rich and rewarding stay in Thailand.
News articles used in this blog are cited as: “Somchai Becomes New Thai PM, Urges Healing” Written by Nopporn Wong-Anan. The Cambodia Daily. Travel Update, provided by East West Siam.
