Thailand’s army summoned more than 100 prominent figures from the nation’s rival political sides on Friday, including “Red Shirt” leaders, former police and military officers and politicians from the opposing parties.
A Thai Army soldier stands guard at Government House, where the anti-government protesters had set up their main camp in Bangkok. (AFP PHOTO/ Manan VATSYAYANA)
BANGKOK: Thailand’s new military junta summoned the kingdom’s ousted leaders Friday as an international outcry grew over a military coup that has brought a harsh crackdown on civil liberties.
Claiming they were acting to halt months of deadly political turmoil, coup-makers led by the tough-talking army chief declared a nationwide night-time curfew and ordered masses of rival demonstrators off the streets.
The military regime headed by General Prayut Chan-O-Cha suspended most of the constitution, drawing rebukes from Washington, Europe and UN Ban Ki-moon, who all called for civilian control to be restored.
Secretary of State John Kerry said there was “no justification” for a coup that would have “negative implications” for US relations, and demanded early elections. The Pentagon said it was reviewing military cooperation with America’s oldest ally in Asia.
Southeast Asian neighbours urged caution, with some warning its nationals to defer non-essential travel to Thailand.
Source AFP
Đăng ký: VietNam News