Reforms: that is the keyword to break the current political deadlock. Opposition leader Abhisit wants to talk to key figures and groups to convince them of this. His offer has provoked mixed reactions.
Abhisit makes his proposal in a 3 minute video clip on YouTube. "I believe reform is the only way forward for the country, constitutionally and democratically, with elections an integral part of the process." He does not say in the video what his ideas about reforms are.
Today, Abhisit talks to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice and the Reform Now Group.
On Monday he will talk to the army commander-in-chief and then he wants to hold talks with the Electoral Council, the government, other political parties and leaders of protest groups. He has set aside a week for it.
Some groups have already responded positively to Abhisit's initiative, but the UDD (red shirt movement) and former government party Pheu Thai are throwing a spanner in the works again. UDD chairman Jatuporn Prompan says Abhisit's proposal is not based on democratic principles and will not help end the political conflict.
His efforts will be fruitless if the PDRC (protest movement led by Suthep Thaugsuban) opposes elections. Abhisit does not need to meet anyone. He must find an answer himself.'
Pheu Thai spokesperson Prompong Nopparit says Abhisit's proposal comes as mustard after the meal after more than five months of protests by the PDRC. "Abhisit had better say whether he will participate in the new elections before having those talks."
Abhisit is adamant. 'I am determined to help find a reasonable solution to the problems. All parties should realize that there can be no clear winners and losers. I understand that my proposal cannot meet the wishes and desires of all parties, not even my own party or those who are supposed to be on my side. But I believe this is the right direction.'
In his talk, Abhisit also touched on the rising cost of living, corruption and the fact that many farmers have not yet been paid for the rice they have surrendered. But he blamed no one for that. 'Now is not the time to blame game because everyone is responsible for the situation the country finds itself in.'
Protest spokesman Akanat Promphan says the PDRC agrees with Abhisit's proposal for reforms and is willing to meet with him to discuss solutions to the political problems.
(Source: bangkok mail, April 25, 2014)