PAD Mass anti-Govt protest in Bangkok Aug 26 2008

[BahtandSold]

Korn sees plot in revenue dept's bid for Thaksin's funds
source: The Nation Aug 25 2008

Democrat MP Korn Chatikavanij has asserted the Revenue Department is trying to release Bt69 billion in frozen assets of Thaksin Shinawatra, using tax collection as a smoke screen.

"The law is clear. The department cannot override the Assets Examination Committee order impounding Thaksin's funds. But it has gone ahead and sought the release of that money," Korn said.

The department last week sent a memorandum instructing Siam Commercial Bank to release Bt12 billion to settle tax liabilities owed to the department by Thaksin's estate.

The estate has about Bt30 billion in frozen accounts held under the names of Thaksin's children Panthongtae and Pinthongta.

Korn worries that if the tax payment is made on behalf of the family by the bank, it could lead to the unlocking of all of Thaksin's wealth frozen in this country.

"I suspect there might be a political order to use the tax collection as a pretext to cancel the freeze," he said.

He reminded tax collectors and the bank they must abide by the impound order. The bank said while it was willing to comply with the department, it would proceed with caution because settlement of tax liabilities appeared to be in conflict with the impound order. The bank's directors will discuss the matter. It has asked the Administrative Court to rule on compliance with tax demands in light of the freeze order.

It has approached the National Counter Corruption Commission and the Attorney General, too.

Until it receives responses it will keep the accounts frozen.

Meanwhile, public prosecutors will today commence a civil action asking the Supreme Court to seize Bt76 billion of Thaksin's assets on the grounds he is "unusually rich".

Deputy AttorneyGeneral Waiyawut Lortrakul said the prosecution would file a 124-page writ arguing for the assets to be seized as state property.

The frozen bank accounts of Thaksin and his family total Bt69 billion. More of his money is yet to be found. Waiyawut said the arguments would use statements from antigraft busters. The prosecution evidence takes up 180 cartons and requires a sixwheel lorry to transport.

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Public prosecutors ask court to seize Thaksin's Bt76 billion
source: The Nation Aug 25 2008

Public prosecutors demanded Monday that the Supreme Court seized Bt76 billion in cash and assets of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his family as part of corruption investigation.

The assets have been frozen since shortly after Thaksin was ousted in a September 2006 coup by military leaders who accused him of widespread corruption and of undermining the country's democracy by consolidating too much power.

Public prosecutors filed a lawsuit asking the court to confiscate those assets and determine how much was earned through Thaksin's media business and how much was the result of corruption while he was in office from 2001-2006.

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Ed Note: It's not fair to simply declare anyone 'unusually rich' then seize their assets, thus, this is the correct procedure. Thaksin deserves fairness (despite all) and the public deserves to know exactly HOW his 76 billion was obtained. However, one doubts Thaksin, his confidants, or lawyers would be pleased over what would be a dissecting audit of accounts and ALL the tentacles involved in the money trails revealed... (not that it will ever come to that;)

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PAD gives moral support to students of Yothin Burana School
source: PRD Aug 25 2009

The People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) travels to Yothin Burana School today (August, 25th) to give moral support to the students who earlier protested against the demolition of the school to construct a new parliament house.

PAD Leaders Somsak Kosaisuk (สมศักดิ์ โกสัยสุข) and Chamlong Srimuang led the protestors to the school, asking the students to join them. However, the school principal said he fears that the situation may excalalte and therefore prohibit the students from coming out of the school to join PAD. About 20 students carry a cloth sign to thank PAD for the moral support in front of the school. The students affirm their protest against the school demolition has no hidden agenda and they only want to keep their school.

All entrances and exits of the school are closed to prevent chaos but it depends on each teacher whether to cancel the classes today. Some classrooms have to call off the class as they are adjacent to the road where PAD gathers. More than 200 police officers have been dispatched to the area to provide security.

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Ed Note: It's one thing to support what appears to be a majority of parents and kids in their seemingly futile efforts to disagree with the Govt's plans but the PAD calling for the students to join them is out of order. The kids are in school, where they should be and although perhaps 'well-intended' the PAD are out-of-bounds on this one imho.

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Duang probe tightens
source: Bkk Post Aug 25 2008

The National Counter Corruption Commission on Sunday gave Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej a 15-day deadline to explain how the publicly reviled son of then-interior minister Chalerm Yubamrung has managed to rejoin the Royal Thai Army.

NCCC member Klanarong Chanthik, appointed to head an investigation of the curious said Mr Samak had 15 days to explain. Otherwise, the premier must lodge his objections to the investigating committee's composition, or to the mandate it has been given.

Mr Klanarong did not say what could happen if Mr Samak simply ignored his demand.

Mr Klanarong was appointed to head a new NCCC sub-committee to investigate whether Mr Samak abused his power as defence minister in readmitting Duang (formerly known as Duangchalerm) Yubamrung, son of Mr Chalerm.

He claimed he sent his demand for action by the premier after the NCCC ``received a complaint'' from a party he did not name. The alleged complaint supposedly said the re-appointment of Mr Duang was unjust, that the decision had damaged the country and that the person at issue had insufficient qualifications to be in the Army.

His remarks were made in apparent response to the regular Sunday morning talk to the nation by Mr Samak. The premier disclosed he had received a formal letter from the NCCC, notifying him that it has empowered a sub-committee to investigate the matter.

Asserting that the investigation was not meant to unfairly pressure anybody, Mr Klanarong said that Mr Samak has within 15 days of receiving the NCCC's notification to object to the committee's composition and its task.

If his objection is accepted, a new sub-committee will be appointed and it will restate the notification to Mr Samak and if he does not object then the new sub-committee will move to gather evidence and interview those persons suspected of being behind Mr Duang's reappointment, he said.

Mr Samak in late April this year approved Mr Duang's application to rejoin the military.

He had been discharged from the military in 2002 for desertion, while fleeing charges he had murdered a policeman in a Bangkok nightclub brawl.

He was finally "found" in Malaysia - and was acquitted of the murder charge when witnesses suddenly refused to remember anything.

The approval for him to return to the army was given Mr Chalerm was interior minister in Mr Samak's coalition government, having come to power in early February this year.

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Former Interior Minister insists his son did not skip military service

Former Interior Minister Chalerm Yubumrung recently held a press conference to address allegations that his son, Duangchaloem Yubumrung, skipped mandatory military service.

After his son was freed to go from the case, Mr. Chalerm claimed that the court has not found his son guilty; therefore, further legal proceedings were not made. He added that the court’s injunction was also acknowledged by the Bangkok Military Court.

Mr. Chalerm affirmed he never lobbied Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej to help clear up the case. It is reported that Mr. Chalerm is set to take legal action against General Samphan Bunyanant (สัมพันธ์ บุญญานันต์) and General Yutthasak Sasiprapha (ยุทธศักดิ์ ศศิประภา) who ordered Mr. Duangchaloem stripped of his military rank.

Mr. Chalerm says he is ready to explain to the National Counter Corruption Commission (NCCC) if asked.

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Ed Note: Predictably, 'proud' pappa Chalerm misses the point of his son(s) questionable 'entitlement' entirely...

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Samak says he will hold Cabinet meeting at Government House despite protest
source: The Nation: 25 Aug 2008

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej said Monday that he will hold the weekly Cabinet meeting at Government on Tuesday as usual although the People's Alliance for Democracy plans a mass demonstration there.

Samak said the government would ensure that no violence break out during the protest.

He also threatened to take action against the PAD if it breaks the laws during the protest.

He said police would do their best to keep security and order.

He said the government could not be blamed if any damage occurs and his government would try to keep law and order as best and long as possible.

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Ed Note: Wee bit worried for the very first time in this ongoing non-sense. The PAD better mind their steps tomorrow...

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Tax department demands Thaksin billions from bank
source: Bkk Post Aug 25 2008

The Revenue Department on Monday ordered Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) to transfer 12 billion baht from the frozen accounts of the son and a daughter of fugitive ex-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra to pay their alleged back taxes, a spokesman of the department said.

Spokesman Sathit Rangkasiri told a press conference that in order to clear the air of confusion faced by the bank, the Revenue Department had informed SCB to transfer the 12 billion baht, deposited at the bank and ordered frozen by the now-defunct Assets Examination Committee (AEC), to transfer the money which would be paid as tax by Mr Thaksin's two children.

During the press conference, Mr Sathit did not mention the Shinawatra family, saying only "taxpayers".

After receiving the money which will be added with fine and 1.5 per cent interest monthly, it will automatically become state revenue, said Mr Sathit.

In accordance with the law, SCB must transfer the money to the Revenue Department within 15 days and if the bank fails without sufficient reason, it will be taken to task, he said.

Mr Sathit said his department had informed SCB twice, by letter. The first letter was sent on July 31 and the second one last Friday, ordering the bank to speed up its transfer of the frozen money.

He said the Revenue Department had cooperated well with the coupmakers-installed AEC until the latter was dissolved and according to the nature of its duties it had to take action because the funds were still frozen in the bank.

If the "taxpayers" were ruled not guilty through an appeal process later, the money could be returned to them, the spokesman said.

The Revenue Department earlier ordered the Thaksin children to pay income tax of 12 billion baht from their earnings from Shin Corp share transactions between themselves and Ample Rich Investment Co.

The two are accused of evading tax payments on their estimated earnings of 15 billion baht from the transactions.

The 12 billion baht is part of 76 billion baht assets of Mr Thaksin's family, obtained from the sale of Shin Corp. to Singapore's Temasek Holdings in January 2006 on the same day the Thai Telecommunications Act was enforced. The entire assets were frozen following the September 19, 2006 bloodless coup that toppled the former Thaksin government.

Mr Thaksin and his family, now in England, paid no capital gains tax.

In another development, civil servants from the Attorney General's Office Monday carried 600 files, contained in 94 boxes, related to how Mr. Thaksin accumulated his abundant wealth, to the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions.

The evidence will be used by the court in seizing the Bt76 billion assets of Mr Thaksin's family.

The Court will meet at a later date to appoint nine judges to make a final verdict on the seizure of 76 billion baht for the state. (TNA)

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Ed Note: Public servants under orders from above in Thailand don't give up easily (they really have no choice afterall;) Seems the puppet-master isn't letting go of this convoluted strategy, regardless it requires a respected banking institution to break the law. No surprises here, expect more high-pressure to follow.

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Finance minister orders Revenue Department to collect Shinawatra family taxes

BANGKOK, Aug 25 (TNA) -- Surapong Suebwonglee, deputy prime minister and finance minister, said Monday he had ordered the Revenue Department to send letters to banks to release frozen money of ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his family members so that it can be paid as taxes.

According to the finance minister, there is a vacuum at present, and the limit of the period for freezing Mr. Thaksin's is not known. The Ministry of Finance, he asserted, especially the Revenue Department, must strictly abide by the law in asking for the return of the frozen assets.

Whether the assets of Mr. Thaksin, now seeking asylum in Britain, could be returned depends entirely on each government unit's interpretation, according to Mr. Surapong, known to have close ties with the former premier who was ousted in a bloodless coup nearly two years ago on September 19, 2006.

The most important concern, Mr. Surapong said, is whether government officials carry out their tasks, even while there must be an explanation to the public as to whether the frozen money will be forfeited and become state revenue.

The deputy prime minister's remarks were made as the prosecution team handling the seizure of the assets of the multi-billionaire ousted premier early Monday submitted evidence to the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions to order the seizure of the assets.

Critics say that the Revenue Department has no authority to unfreeze the assets of Shinawatra's family unless the court has given it the green light. (TNA)

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Academic slams 'resurrection of Bank of Thailand zombie'
source: The Nation August 25, 2008

The rise of the so-called "Gang of Four", which is extending its sway over the Kingdom's key financial organisations through a group led by former Bank of Thailand governor Vijit Supinit, has led to widespread criticism among the financial community and academics.

The Vijit-led group has unmasked the gang's hidden agenda now that its members - appointed by the Finance Ministry - have seats on the BOT's court of governors, the Securities and Exchange Commission's board of directors and selection committee, and the Stock Exchange of Thailand's board of governors.

Apichat Satitniramai, a lecturer at Thammasat University, is one of those who have drawn their swords, taking serious issue with Vijit over his performance when BOT governor. He condemns Vijit for his attempt to abort the spirit of the new BOT Act, which was drafted with the aim of decoupling the central bank from political intervention. The Act was implemented this year.

The previous BOT law allowed the finance minister to oust the central bank's governor at any time and for any reason, while at the same time giving the governor absolute power.

"The governor had absolute power in the central bank but had to surrender to the government's demands if the governor wanted to remain in post, or if anyone wanted to be appointed governor," Apichat wrote in a paper titled "When the Zombie of Bangkhunprom Palace Resurrects". Bangkhunprom Palace is the headquarters of the BOT.

"In my opinion, this structure of power relationships was the key reason for the 1997 economic crisis, led by a governor named Vijit Supinit," he wrote in his article, in which he levelled accusations against Vijit over four issues.

Firstly, he said, Vijit asked a chief economic adviser of then-premier Chatichai Choonhavan to prevent the appointment of a deputy governor in order to give Vijit enough time to interpret the BOT law so that he could serve as a deputy governor himself.

The BOT law, which was initially drafted in English, mentioned the position of deputy governor in the singular, and there had traditionally been only one until 1988. Vijit, however, tried to interpret the law in a Thai version under which the BOT could have more than one deputy governor, so as to pave the way for him to be governor, said Apichat.

Vijit eventually achieved his ambition when he was made governor in October 1990 with political support, though the previous incumbent had not proposed him as his successor.

Vijit's key policy was then to get the country on track to become a financial centre, in line with Chatichai's policy of turning battlefields into trade arenas.

Secondly, said Apichat, Vijit asked the National Intelligence Agency for information that could be used to accuse Ekamol Kiriwat, the Securities and Exchange Commission secretary-general, of having disclosed sensitive data. Ekamol's term was coming to a close and he was due to return to his previous position as BOT deputy governor.

There was an internal rift among staff of the central bank under Vijit's tenure, and they could not work together to solve economic problems efficiently. The central bank also lost its integrity when the public realised that its top executive had political connections, said Apichat.

Thirdly, Vijit allegedly had a conflict of interest in buying and selling a stake in the subsidiary of a commercial bank at par value. The company later was approved as a listed company by the Stock Exchange of Thailand's board of governors, chaired by Vijit.

Lastly, Vijit was accused of receiving overdraft loans without any collateral from the now-defunct Bangkok Bank of Commerce during the period that the bank was being examined by the BOT.

"The conflict of interest, which ruined the central bank's credibility, and the disharmony among the central bankers, occurred as the economic crisis was looming. When the crisis erupted, the central bank became crippled and could not address the crisis as it should have done," Apichat said.

Apichat said Vijit's moral deterioration had lowered the technocrat's ability to exercise power over macroeconomic management, which finally led to policy inconsistency and the 1997 crisis.

He also alleged that Vijit had realised while he was BOT governor that the country needed to change its exchange-rate regime to the floating-rate system, to be in tandem with the advent of financial liberalisation and to prevent an influx of capital. However, he turned a blind eye to the need for such a change for fear that it would prejudice his position as head of the central bank. "The technocrat's authority over policy management had declined to the point that he was concerned for his survival rather than academic accuracy," said Apichat.

Apichat said he did not believe in karmic law - and that the "zombie" at Bangkhunprom Palace would absolutely agree with him on this point.

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Ed Note: Meet the new Govt appointed independent board of the Bank of Thailand (if one can say 'new' realising Mr Vijit's roll in the '97 banking collapse)
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'Them or us'
source: Bangkok Post Aug 26 2008

The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) is betting its future on Tuesday's showdown with the government with confidence that Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and his cabinet will be toppled.

Calling today's showdown "the last whistleblow", Sondhi Limthongkul, one of the PAD leaders said: "If we fail this time, we'll quit and surrender the country to them. When people don't care about us, we won't have to care about them. Let others take over the country."

But the group, which has staged the protest rally since May 25, will face defiance from the prime minister, who refused to bow to any move outside parliament to force him to step down.

The government came to power legally and the only way to remove it from power should be through parliamentary means, Mr Samak said.

"As prime minister, I am duty-bound to keep law and order in the country. Demonstrations must be kept within legal limits. If they go beyond those limits, the law enforcers will take action," Mr Samak said.

Mr Sondhi expected 300,000 PAD supporters to turn up today but police estimated the rally would draw only tens of thousands.

The PAD's strategy is to paralyse the administration and the country. It includes the seizure of Government House and all ministries along Ratchadamnoen avenue , disrupting two airports in Phuket and Hat Yai, and blocking roads, according to Mr Sondhi.

"Today's protest is an extraordinary one. We will do everything possible to make sure the state mechanisms stop working. But we will not do anything to cause trouble to the people," Mr Sondhi said.

A unit of about 100 Arintharat commandos have now been sent in to secure Government House.

Mr Samak called the PAD's actions unreasonable and said they could hurt the country's economy.

"People have started to panic. This is too much. But I will try my utmost to be patient," he said.

He confirmed that the cabinet meeting would proceed as usual today despite the rallies and denied suggestions the government would resort to violent means to break up the rallies.

Jatuporn Promphan, a People Power party MP, ridiculed the PAD's claimed final campaign, saying it was simply an attempt to make an early exit from their activities.

Metropolitan police chief Pol LtGen Aswin Kwanmuang said police would not block protesters' movements and would help manage traffic flow.

"Police units will be in place to facilitate movement, not to break up the rally," Pol Lt-Gen Aswin said.

Police spokesman Pol Maj-Gen Surapol Thuanthong said the national police chief has told officers to be patient in the face of the demonstrations.

Special Branch police chief Pol LtGen Thiradet Rodphothong said people from Chon Buri would form the largest number of demonstrators in Bangkok.

The protest would be joined by 2,000 to 3,000 staff of the Provincial Electricity Authority, according to Phien Yongnoo, chairman of the labour union of the Metropolitan Electricity Authority.

But Sirichai Mai-ngam, chairman of the labour union of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, said the PAD leaders have not yet approached them to join today's protest.

"We will wait to see the situation before making any move," he said.

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PAD rally to aim at shutting down the gov't
source: The Nation Aug 26 2008

Before commencing its mass rally, the People's Alliance for Democracy issued a statement at 5.45 am on Wednesday vowing to shut down the government.

The PAD attacked the government as a puppet plunderer without no legitimacy to rule which would bring about ruins to the country if allowed to cling to power.

It said that its mass rally was designed to depose the government.

It cited Article 63 of the Constitution, enshrining the right to peaceful assembly, to justify its action. It warned the people about inconveniences from road snarls. It also called on the people to cooperate with protesters, who described themselves as the People's Salvation Forces.

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Police to file treason charges against five PAD leaders
source: The Nation Aug 26 2008

Police announced that they would take legal actions against the five leaders of the People's Alliance for Democracy for alleged treason.

Police said they are in the process of gathering evidence for taking the action.

But PAD leader Chamlong Srimuang said he was not afraid and ready to be arrested.

He said his arrest would mean the defeat of the government.

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Protesters storm into NBT station on Vipavadi road -
PAD also seizes NBT stations in provinces
The Nation

Electricity at NBT cut off, all broadcast programmes suspended

Protesters led by People's Alliance for Democracy managed to break police corridor to enter compound of the National Broadcasting Television on Vipavadi Rangsit Road on Tuesday.

Some 2,000 protesters pushed the entrance gate where police line tried to push back. Finally the protesters managed to push down the gate and entered the compound.

The electricity was cut off, resulting in all programmes to be suspended at 8.30am.

NBT station's acting director Suriyong Huntasarn said the protesters are now in the station's compound but has not yet entered the buildings.

Suriyong said most of the station's staffs already left the station.

The protesters started gathering in front of the station at about 6am, making police to seal off some roads leading to the station.

Suriyong said it was not the station that cut off the electricity. He is talking with police in order to control the situation.

Earlier protesters block entrance of National Broadcasting Telelvision station on Vipavadi Rangsit Road on Tuesday.

Police detained on Tuesday a group of protesters who tried to seize an NBT television station on on Vipavadi Rangsit Road.

The attempt took place at about 5.30am when there are a few staffs of the NBT at that moment.

The group, comprising about 60 men, covered their faces with black pieces of cloths and dressed in black t-shirt and jeans.

Two NBT television hosts said in a news television programme at about 6.10am that police found a handgun and long knives from the group.

The group also broke a glass door in their way to go to the station's building. They separated into several groups and went into the station. NBT staffs were told to leave the office.

Police are interrogating the group. One of them was Nitirat Sapsomboon. Police brought the protesters who had weapons into 3 trucks to a police station while searching for protesters who might hide in the office.

Main protest will go to the Government House where Samak Cabinet will meet in its weekly meeting.

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PAD threatens to raid police headquarters
The Nation

The People's Alliance for Democracy announced at its main rally site at Makawan Rangsan Bridge that protesters might march to the headquarters of the Royal Thai Police at Pathumwan.

About 2,000 protesters led by PAD leader Amorn Amornrattananont raided and took control of the NBT station.

A separate group of about 800 protesters are rallying at the Finance Ministry.

PAD leaders Sondhi Limthongkul and Chamlong Srimung remain at the main rally site.

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Cabinet to hold meeting at Supreme Command
The Nation

The Cabinet will shift its weekly meeting to be held at the Supreme Command at 10:30 am.

The Cabinet Secretariat is moving documents necessary for the meeting to the new meeting venue.

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PAD block a main highway linking Bangkok and the South
The Nation

About 1,000 protesters led by the People's Alliance for Democracy have shut down traffic on Phetkasem Road at Ta Sae district, Chumphon disrupting the transportation between Bangkok and the South.

Protesters were reportedly mobilised from many southern provinces, including Chumphon, Krabi, Nakhon Si Thammarat. They have vowed to block the traffic until the government resigned.

Police have directed vehicles to use alternative routes.

Another group of PAD-led protesters are seen congregating at Bang Saphan district, causing concern that they might be planning to put up additional road block which, if happens, will completely cut off traffic to and from the capital.

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PAD blocks roads linking Northeast, North, South to Bangkok
The Nation

Apart from blocking the main road to the South, the People's Alliance for Democracy protesters also blocked the roads linking to the North and Northeast.

The block the northern main road in Phichit and block the Mittraparp Road near Nakhon Ratchaisma to block the gateway to other northeastern provinces.

The blockade was made in Chum Phon, the gateway to southern provinces.

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NBT is broadcasting its signal from a mobile unit
The Nation

After its main station was seized by protesters, the NBT broadcast from a mobile unit outside the station at about 9:40 am Tuesday.

It began with interviewing a deputy police chief, criticising the PAD.

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PAD orders NBT to relay ASTV broadcast
The Nation

People's Alliance for Democracy Sondhi Limthongkul on Tuesday announced at the main rally site that the PAD had gained a complete control of the NBT station following a raid.

Sondhi ordered the state-run station to relay the broadcast of his ASTV, a satallite television station.

Inspite of the raid, the NBT management was trying to continue broadcasting by mobile units but this was disrupted at periodic intervals.

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PAD orders NBT to relay ASTV broadcast
The Nation

People's Alliance for Democracy Sondhi Limthongkul on Tuesday announced at the main rally site that the PAD had gained a complete control of the NBT station following a raid.

Sondhi ordered the state-run station to relay the broadcast of his ASTV, a satallite television station.

Inspite of the raid, the NBT management was trying to continue broadcasting by mobile units but this was disrupted at periodic intervals.

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NBT female announcer thanks PAD guards for escorting her out of NBT after seizure
The Nation

From a special mobile broadcast unit, Tuangporn Assawawilai thanks guards of the People's Alliance for Democracy for escorting her, police and other NBT officials outside the NBT head office after the protesters stormed in and seized the station Tuesday.

Tuangorn and another announcer, Jirayu Huangsup, were talking live from an undisclosed special broadcast unit.

Earlier, the NBT broadcast from the Metropolitan Police head office but the protesters stormed in and blacked out the signal there again.

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There will no coup: Gen Anupong
The Nation

The Army gave an assurance on Tuesday that it will not stage a coup following the chaos caused by protests against Samak Government.

Army Commander in Chief Gen Anupong Paojinda insisted the army will not intervene into the situation.

The army chief was speaking after the protesters led by People's Alliance for Democracy stormed and seized National Broadcasting Television office on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road on Tuesday morning.

The general asked people not to be panic and spent their lives as usual.

The main protest is at the Government House where tens of thousands of protesters surrounded the venue. The cabinet meeting has to move from the Government House to Supreme Command headquarters on Chang Wattana Road. The meeting is scheduled to start at 10.30am.

Meanwhile an informed source said that Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej left his residence at about 8.30am to unknown place.

The source said Samak reportedly telephoned to Gen Anupong to check the situations from time to time.

PAD-led protests have scattered around the capital. One is at the police headquarter and others at ministries of Transportation, Agriculture and Cooperatives and Finance.

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PAD protesters storming Metropolitan Police
The Nation

At 11.15 am, protesters led by the People's Alliance for Democracy have broken passed the headquarters gate of Metropolitan Police Bureau on Sri Ayutthaya Road.

Metropolitan Police commissioner Lt General Asawin Kwanmuang is trying to negotiate with protesters to back out of the police commound and not raid the headquarters building.
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ED NOTE:

The PAD appear to have lost the plot with some of their actions today. 'Storming' police HQ and Govt TV stations among them...

Hopefully cooler heads will prevail, but now that the line has been crossed this is looking less likely. Months if not years of PAD peaceful protests created a degree of goodwill - which looks very perilous at the moment. Unfortunately the PAD have likely now set themselves up for whatever the Govt may throw back at them. Tragic that.

The PAD's fight may be a just one, however, using any force, no matter the degree, is NOT justified.

Meanwhile, looking at the live video-stream feed, it appears the bulk of the protesters are still at the bridge site, however, obviously there are several other groups raiding various targets in other areas. One wonders when the 'main' target may be revealed... (and also how much longer before Samak instructs the police etc to make a move?)

To view live video feeds and hourly English news, please see:
http://www.astv-tv.com/toc_broadcast.html

Next?
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[BahtandSold]

News announcer Kitti attacked at NBT head office
The Nation

Channel 3 announcer Kitti Singhapad was seen on Channel 9 being splashed water on and was hit by a punch during a commotion at the NBT station.

Kitti gave an interview to Channel 9 that protesters misunderstood that guards of People's Alliance for Democracy took him into their custody so many attacked him by pouring water on him and booing him.

He said the guards helped him out of the scene during which he was punched one time.

He said he went to the scene to observe the situation.

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PAD to set up stage at NBT
source: PRD

The People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) announces that it will set up its second stage at the office of the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT).

Sources say PAD has tried efforts to broadcast at NBT while NBT news anchors, Jirayu Huangsap (จิรายุ ห่วงทรัพย์) and Tuangporn Atsawawilai (ตวงพร อัศววิไล), are currently hosting a program from an Outside-Broadcast (OB) truck now stationed in the Metropolitan Police Headquarters.

However, a group of PAD protestors have traveled to the Metropolitan Police Headquarters on Sri Ayutthaya Road to expel NBT’s news team's live broadcasting and pressure police to release 80 men suspected from breaking into NBT this morning.

Meanwhile, security has been increased at the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters where the Cabinet held a meeting today as the Government House has been surrounded by the protestors.

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Protesters storm into Finance Ministry
source: The Nation

Protesters led by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) seized the office of Finance Ministry on Rama VI road at 11.39am Tuesday.

The protesters broke the fourth door of the office of Bureau of the Budget at the ministry and raid into the ministry.

It was the second government agencies seized by the protest after the protester had seized the NBT channel early Tuesday morning.

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Military figures meet to discuss about unrest
source: Bkk Post

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej shifted the weekly cabinet meeting Tuesday to the Royal Thai Armed Forces headquarters after supporters of People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) blocked roads around the Government House.

Meanwhile, Supreme Commander Boonsang Niampradit and chiefs of armed forces reportedly attend a separate meeting at the same venue to discuss about the political unrest.

It is still unknown whether the military figures will meet with the ministers as anti-government protesters rallied at important venues around the capital.

Meanwhile, a group of protesters gathered in front of the Metropolitan Police Bureau to demand that authorities release about 80 group members who were arrested for invading the state-run National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT) television station in the morning.

Police, however, revealed that they were already moved to Border Patrol Police bureau.

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Unrest prompts Prem to close home on birthday
Bkk Post

Privy Council president Prem Tinsulanonda did not open his residence for well-wishers on his 88th birthday anniversary Tuesday because of political unrest.

Reporters said Gen Prem does not want well-wishers to be concerned about coming to pay respect to him on this special occasion as anti-government group People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) rallies at important sites around the capital to demand that Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and his cabinet be removed.

Iron barricades have been placed around his compound, with some police officers stationing at the area as usual to ensure safety for Gen Prem.

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Upbeat Chavalit urges cooperation from all sides
Bkk Post

Former prime minister Chavalit Yongchaiyuth believed the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) widespread anti-government rallies on Tuesday will not lead to violence and the situation would be restored.

Gen Chavalit said he would like the public, the government and the PAD to be tolerant and work out the problems rationally. He said the government should be able to find solutions because the current political situation can still move forward, if all sides cooperate.

The political veteran expressed confidence that the situation would turn for the better because all Thais revere Their Majesties the King and Queen.

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Supreme Army Commander calls on security force leaders to update him on situation
source: PRD

Supreme Army Commander General Boonsarng Niempradit (บุญสร้าง เนียมประดิษฐ์) has called a meeting of all military leaders as well as the police commander. The call went out to Army Commander Anupong Paojinda (อนุพงษ์ เผ่าจินดา), Air force Commander, Air Chief Chalit Pukpasuk (ชลิต พุกผาสุข) and Naval Commander Admiral Sathiraphan Keyanond (สถิรพันธุ์ เกยานนท) and National Police Commander, Police General Patcharawat Wongsuwan (พัชรวาท วงษ์สุวรรณ).

The Supreme Army Commander called on the security chiefs to give him an update on the situation concerning the movements of the People's Alliance for Democracy. He asked that he be informed of the events as they transpire in a minute to minute basis.

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PAD affirms it will station itself in front of Finance Ministry to pressure resignation from minister
source: PRD

People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) Liaison Suriyasai Katasila (สุริยะใส กตะศิลา) affirmed that the PAD would hold fast it's protest in front of the Ministry of Finance for an initial one night. Mr. Suriyasai stated that the act was to pressure the resignation of Finance Minister Doctor Surapong Suebwonglee .

The PAD indicated that evidence had been brought to light that the ministry had spent funds in an nontransparent fashion. The group is also attempting to egg on support from civil servants within the ministry.

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Protesters storm inside Government House compound
source: The Nation

Protesters stormed inside Government House compound at about 1:50 pm.

They climbed over the fence and broke into the front gate.

It was the first time that protesters broke into the compound since their protest.

------------

Ed Note: Watching the live feed, it rather looked like they 'strolled in', no 'storming' whatsoever. Moreover, the main protest looks peaceful, moms n pops, grandparents, the usual PAD crowd, plus singers etc. All looks quite surreal given the circumstance, but peaceful nonetheless.

Live video feeds and hourly English news:
http://www.astv-tv.com/toc_broadcast.html

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PPP to counter PAD
source: The Nation

People Power Party MP Pracha Prasopdee on Tuesday announced that he would organise counter crowds if the government failed to disperse the mass rally organised by the People's Alliance for Democracy by 6.00 pm.

Pro-government crowds started to congregate at Sanam Luang.

---------

Ed Note: Here is a REAL 'potential' source for violence - an Udon Thani type pro-govt goon-squad attack, made up of 'motivated' thugs, sponsored by the PPP... However, given the small #s of pro-govt supporters at the DAAD's protests at Sanam Luang in the past (made up mostly of motocycle taxi drivers etc) doubtful they could mount a real offense, but they certainly could turn things nasty, judging from past evidence.

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Supreme Commander: No need for Emergency Decree, yet

BANGKOK, Aug 26 (TNA) – Supreme Commander Gen. Boonsang Niempradit on Tuesday indicated that separate rallies staged by the People's Alliance for Democracy-led protesters at several key state-owned establishments had not escalated to the extent that an emergency decree need to be adopted, but affirmed that he believed the police could handle the situation.

He said the military had not yet been put on alert, but it is monitoring the situation and the police supervision of the rallies.

Regarding a possible adoption of an emergency decree to control the situation, Gen. Boonsang said it must be discussed if Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej suggests it.

However, he personally sees no need to adopt emergency measures for the time being because "it could cause confusion".

Asked to comment on the action of some PAD protesters storming into the state-run NBT television station, Gen. Boonsang said he did not want to see any violence take place and that he believed the police would be able to cope with the situation.

Should the premier call it quits to end the ongoing political tensions, he was asked. As a subordinate, the general said, he is not in a position to comment.

However, the supreme commander said he believed that all conflicting parties should turn to talk with each other. The PAD has the right to stage rallies, but its actions must not break the law.

Gen. Boonsang affirmed that no military officers thought of staging a coup because they are aware it would likely not improve the situation.

Meanwhile, it was reported that the Cabinet met at the Royal Thai Armed Forces' headquarters since
Government House has been isolated and closed off by the PAD demonstrators.

Key security officers including Army Commander-in-Chief Gen. Anupong Paochinda, Police Commissioner Pol. Gen. Patcharavat Wongsuwan, and First Army Region Commander Lt-Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha met with the supreme commander at the headquarters.

It is expected that the top military brass will continue to meet and assess the situation.

Gen. Prayuth said there remained a way out regarding the PAD decision to rally at several state agencies and seize the NBT television station -- if its supporters agreed to disperse and return to their position.

Whether the emergency decree should be adopted to deal with situation, he said, depended on the government's decision.

However, he believed the situation had not escalated to such an extent that warrants the announcement
of the decree. (TNA)

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Cabinet meeting nears end as PM to consider Military reshuffle
source: PRD

Today's Cabinet meeting is currently nearing its end as the Government House is also scheduled to discuss the Military Reshuffle today. The reshuffle is waiting consideration on adjustments to the higher ranks of the military inline with the Defense Ministry regulation of 2007.

The meeting however may be moved to the Army Headquarters located on Chaengwattana road as the Defense minister, Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej is looking to avoid interference on the issue.

Naval Commander Admiral Sathirapan Keyanond (สถิรพันธุ์ เกยานนท) has made his way to the headquarters but has denied to speak with the press about current situations. Permanent Secretary of Defense General Vinai Pattiyakul (วินัย ภัททิยกุล) assured that the reshuffle would be completed today and affirmed that there was no political pressure on it.

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Samak to make announcement before 3 pm
source: The Nation

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej will make an important announcement shortly before 3 pm, Justice Minister Sompong Amornwiwat said.
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Protesters occupying key locations around the capital
source: The Nation (3pm)

By 2.00 pm on Tuesday, protesters led by the People's Alliance for Democracy have managed to occupy many key installations and shut down works.

Protesters are now inside Government House, the Education Ministry, the Transport Ministry, the Agriculture Ministry, the Finance Ministry. They are rallying in front of the Energy Ministry.

They have taken complete control of two broadcasting stations of NBT Channel located on Vibhavadi Road and Phetchaburi Road respectively.

----------

Ed Note: PM Samak is currently speaking (3:20 pm).

Please see video link:
http://www.astv-tv.com/toc_broadcast.html
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Ed Note:

Upshot of the PM's speech:

- Mr Samak asked Thai people to 'choose' a side, either for the Govt, or for the PAD. He also stated anyone in between and not willing to take a stand are in effect supporting the PAD. Also, neither the Police nor the Military see the need for intervention (perhaps explaining why Mr Samak resorts to pleaing with the public to choose the Govt's side?).

As in the last stand-off, it appears the PM hasn't the full support of the Military or Police. However, with the PAD stating they will stage peaceful sit-ins at various Govt buildings, this may change. Particularly given Mr Samak warns (again) of a '3rd' party whom would cause trouble... (might he unwittingly be referring to the pro-govt DAAD thugs?)
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PM issues his last warning to protesters, his patience running out
source: The Nation 3:40 pm

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej appeared on the live broadcast at 3.00 pm on Tuesday issuing a stern warning for protesters to disperse before authorities starting to enforce the law to restore peace and social order.

Samak said he will not allow five or six protest leaders, who he sees as a street gang, to bring down his government.

"Police will soon starting to enforce the law to clear road blockade at various points in Bangkok and upcountry and evict protesters from government installations, including Government House," he said.

Police will act in accordance with prescribed steps to deal with protesters and soldiers will step in if deemed necessary; there is no way that a handful of people could oust the elected government of 63 million people, he said.

Since morning, protests are no longer peaceful and unarmed as claimed and this is evident from the raid of the NBT station, he said.

He reminded his opponents that he was close to running out of his patience, saying that the government has yet to invoke many security laws and anti-riot measures to disperse the crowds.

The government has appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Kowit Wattana to take charge of restoring normalcy, he said. Kowit would have a full mandate to supervise the police and interior measures.

The prime minister thanked Bangkok residents for refusing to support the protests and called on villagers supporting the People's Alliance for Democracy to reconsider their stand.

He urged the media to provide a cautious coverage in order to avoid inflaming the situation.

He called on PAD supporters to reflect on their stand, arguing that there is no justification to oust the elected government by inciting riots.

-------------
Ed Note:
Comforting new Interior Minister Kowit is charged with resolving the situation. One assumes he's more prepared this time after being sacked as Police Chief following his continuous failure to properly investigate the tragic '06 new years bombings in Bkk...(allegedly deliberately) - Many suspect only one man in self-exile overseas at the time would benefit from a bombing designed to cause chaos and lack of stability for a coup-led Govt at the time...

The PM is disingenuous in insinuating the PAD are 'inciting riots'. The PAD supporters made up mostly of moms, pops and grandparents, have never incited riots, nor do they appear to be doing so now, despite the regretful scuffle at the NBT station earlier. The ONLY chance of a riot breaking out is if the pro-govt thugs are set in motion.
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Kowit orders police to evict protesters out of Government House by 6 pm
The Nation

Interior Minister Kowit Watana has ordered police to evict protesters from Government House compound by 6 pm, a well-informed source.

Government Spokesman Wichianchote Sukchokerat, meanwhile, expressed confidence that the prime minister will be able to enter Government and work in his office there as usual on Wednesday.

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Police chef says Govt should talk to PAD
The Nation 5pm

Police Commissioner-General Pol Gen Phatcharawat Wongsuwan said Tuesday that he would propose that the government hold talk with leaders of the People's Alliance for Democracy.

The police chief was speaking to reporters while attending a meeting with Interior Minister Kowit Watana at the Metropolitan Police Bureau.

Phatcharawat said the situation had peaked but Kowit would have a final say on how to deal with the situation.

---------
Ed Note: Clearly, the police rank and file don't have the heart for this. Tough position for them to be in, now apparently being ordered by Kowit to take action. Commendable how disciplined they were last time there was a PAD stand-off and thus far in this one. Hats off to the boys in brown, hopefully they'll find wriggle-room to continue to both 'serve AND protect'...

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PAD moves protesters from NBT to Government House
The Nation

The People's Alliance for Democracy moved its protesters from NBT Channel to Government House at 5 pm.

The NBT stopped occupying the NBT head office apparently after it failed to block NBT from airing its programmes from somewhere else and the PAD failed to hack through security system of the station to relay signal from ASTV as initially planned.

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PAD to continue laying seige on gov't installations for three days
The Nation

People's Alliance for Democracy spokesman Suriyasai Katasila on Tuesday said protesters would continue to lay seige on Government House and other installations for three days.

"We will not waver in the Thai Khu Fah plan to force the prime minister to step down," he said.

On Wednesday, the PAD will step up pressure by cutting electricity and water supplies at key government installations, he said.

Should the government insist on clinging to power, the PAD will prescribe stronger measures, he said.

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Thai PM vows "decisive action" to stamp out protests
source: AFP 26 August 2008 1635 hrs

BANGKOK - Thailand's Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej vowed Tuesday to take "decisive action" to quell mass rallies in Bangkok, as protesters demanding his resignation laid siege to government buildings.

"Police will use all means to restore normalcy as soon as possible," Samak said in an address carried on national television. "Police will take decisive action against the protesters."

He was speaking as thousands of protesters seized a state-run television station, stormed the grounds of Government House and blockaded key ministries and government offices.

The protests are part of a long-running campaign to force him from office and cripple his administration.

"The military will not allow them to take control of the country. However, it is not the time yet for military force," Samak said.

"I will not resign, I will stay to protect this country," he added.

The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), which has been protesting since May, claims Samak is running the country on behalf of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in a 2006 coup and is barred from holding office.

Samak urged the demonstrators to give up and return home, warning that his patience was running out.

"The government has given them a lot of time, and now government restraint is almost over," he said.

"I ask all the protesters who have been blockading or occupying government offices that you still have a chance to withdraw and go back to your homes."

Samak announced that Interior Minister Kowit Wattana had been appointed to oversee the national police office.

----------
Ed Note: A glimpse from the AFP of what the outside world is reading regarding all this. Unfortunately, most outsiders would likely have zero idea of the myriad of reasons the PAD are attempting to oust the Thaksin/Samak entities from feeding with impunity at the public trough - just politics in Thailand...

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Police order protesters out of govt buildings
Bkk Post

Interior Minister Kowit Wattana, assigned by Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej to quell political unrest, Tuesday gave protesters surrounding key state buildings in Bangkok a deadline of 6pm to leave the main government compound, or be removed, according to deputy police spokesman Surapon Thuanthong.

Pol Maj Gen Surapon did not identify how police would restore peace. He only said 'appropriate measures' will be considered on how to control the protesters.

Pol Gen Kowit reportedly met with National Police chief Patcharawat Wongsuwan, Metropolitan Police chief Asawin Kwanmuang and Central Investigation Bureau chief Somyos Poomphanmuang at the Metropolitan Police Bureau. They refused to speak to reporters after the meeting.

---------
Ed Note: The logical way to clear thousands of people would be by using tear gas. No matter how many police there are, it would be logistically impossible to arrest them all or evict them one by one... Personally, hope the police choose to simply 'observe and protect' the peace in this case in what is CURRENTLY a PEACEFUL sit-in.

-Just watched an interview of a 60 year old Grandmum whom came from upcountry to 'save her country from tyrants'... she doesn't look fit enough for either a riot squad beating or tear gas, nor do a lot of the PAD crowd. There are even kids in attendance...

Again, live video link:
http://www.astv-tv.com/toc_broadcast.html

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Protesters will be dispersed in 24 hours: Gov't spokesman
The Nation 5:55 pm

Police are expected to complete clearing protesters off the grounds of Government House within 24 hours, government spokesman Wichianchot Sukchotrat said on Tuesday.

"Government House will open for business no later than Wednesday and everything will be backed to normal in 24 hours," he said, voicing confidence that police could evict protesters.

The crowds would be dispersed and the prime minister deems the situation unwarranted to declare a state of emergency, he said.
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Ed Update:

Sincere apologies (!) to members and viewers as our server in the UK was down with technical difficulties from approx 7 pm Thai time until now (a rare event, thankfully).
Thank you for your kind patience.

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Samak explains the situation to foreign reporters
The Nation - Published for August 27, 2008

In what was billed as a damagecontrol effort, Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej told a group of foreign correspondents the street protests and storming of Government House were the work of "five or six people" with an axe to grind with ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra.

"They want bloodshed in the country. They want the military to come out and stage a coup again," Samak told a group of foreign journalists yesterday.

The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), which has been protesting since May, accused Samak of being a proxy of former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted in a coup on September 19, 2006.

"My feeling is it's a group of people - five or six people - they don't like the former prime minister, they don't like me, and up to now they have wanted to overthrow the government, which is illegal," Samak said.

Despite the fact that the bulk of the politicians under his People Power Party were members of Thaksin's now-defunct Thai Rak Thai Party, Samak said he did not understand why they linked him with Thaksin.

Samak said he would seek the arrest of five or six key PAD leaders and vowed to starve out the demonstrators, using "a soft and gentle approach" to get them to leave the Government House compound.

Earlier, the premier said he would use "all means" to clear the streets.
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1,000 police commandos storm protesters at Government House early Weds morning

Please click the following link to view all new updates:
http://www.bahtsold.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=3360

What next
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