In a live television broadcast this evening, Thailand’s prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has declared a state of emergency in Bangkok. The announcement follows action taken earlier today by anti-government red shirt protesters who broke through security at the site of the Thai parliament to enter the compound. The parliamentary session was abandoned with MPs ushered away from the building by security officials amidst chaotic scenes.
With political strife continuing in Thailand ever since the military coup in 2006, different governments have been forced into using emergency decrees to control protests by either red shirts or yellow shirts. This is the fourth separate occasion since September 2008 that a state of emergency has been declared in Bangkok. Indeed, it is the second time in just under a year that Abhisit himself has issued an emergency decree to deal with red shirt protests in Bangkok. The protests during April 2009 were quelled by the military and it is the army who look set to play a pivotal role again during the current crisis.
The state of emergency in Bangkok was announced following a special cabinet meeting and consultation with the leaders of the armed forces. The emergency decree gives the government sweeping powers including the ability to deal with public gatherings of more than five people, but red shirt leaders have vowed to continue their protests.
Related Articles:
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- Red Shirts Increase Pressure on Thai Government
- Protest Continues in Bangkok's Commercial District
- Red Shirt Protest Moves to Central Bangkok
- Protest Stalemate Continues
- Red Shirts Deliver Ultimatum
- Who are the Yellow Shirts and Red Shirts?
- Contact your Thai Embassy or Consulate
- Thailand Travel Insurance
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