Discussion to End Political Turmoil in Thailand

Secretary-General of the Chaipattana Foundation Sumet Tantivejkul urged all sides involved to be mindful and turn to one another to find a way out of the impasse. Discussion between them to end conflicts must be made in the public interest and through peaceful means, in response to His Majesty’s the King’s speech calling for reconciliation.

Mr. Sumet said that, in seeking a solution to the problem, the root cause must be found out first, and then the problem must be tackled at its root cause, based on justice and righteousness. He pointed out that violent incidents were undesirable, as they would bring sorrow to everyone. Any method that might lead to the solving of this problem should be adopted for peace and order in society as a whole. Also, Privy Councilor General Surayud Chulanont had earlier called on all sides to turn to one another, saying that discussion should be the best solution to end their conflicts.

Meanwhile, President of the Marketing Association of Thailand Lakkhana Leelayuthayothin shared the view that all sides should turn to one another for talks to end political conflicts as soon as possible, otherwise both direct and indirect impacts on the Thai economy would grow. Vice-President of the Federation of Thai Industries Kiattipong Noichaiboon also said that the public sector would like to see the current political turmoil end shortly. He was afraid that the political situation might have an impact on investor confidence in the country. If the situation dragged on for another three months, the country’s economic growth this year might drop to 4 percent or lower, against the 5 percent projected earlier.

President of the Center for the Promotion of National Strength on Moral Ethics Paiboon Wattanasiritham explained that there are two types of peaceful means to end political conflicts. The first type is called “non-violence” and the other is called “negotiation,” or “peace-building.” Conflicts are now taking place among three sides, namely the caretaker government, the former Opposition, and the anti-Prime Minister Thaksin group. The three sides have already adopted non-violence.

Mr. Paiboon urged all sides to adopt the second type of peaceful means as well, with a respected and impartial person facilitating their talks. He believes that, with their discussion, settlements to the conflicts will be reached, thus leading to political and social reforms in Thai society.

Source from: http://thailand.prd.go.th/the_inside_view.php?id=1272 (13 March 2006)