Thailand imposes martial law amid political crisis

Thailand’s army has imposed martial law amid a political crisis “to preserve law and order”.

The surprise announcement also granted the army wide-ranging powers to enforce its decision.

The military insisted that its assumption of responsibility for national security was not a coup.

Martial law comes amid a long-running political crisis, and months of escalating tensions between the government and the opposition.

Correspondents say the move could enrage supporters of the government, especially if it is seen as amounting to a coup. The army has staged at least 11 coups since the end of the absolute monarchy in 1932.

Roads in the capital, Bangkok, have been blocked off by tanks.

Thailand’s army has imposed martial law amid a political crisis to preserve law and order

The military has taken over TV and radio stations, and ordered media censorship in the interests of “national security”.

Soldiers have also moved into the main government building, which has been unoccupied following months of violent demonstrations by opponents who want to be rid of an administration they say is corrupt.

Both pro and anti-government protesters have been told not to march anywhere in order to prevent clashes.

An announcement on military-run TV said martial law had been imposed “to restore peace and order for people from all sides”.

“The public do not need to panic but can still live their lives as normal,” it said.

The military statement was signed by army chief Prayuth Chan-Ocha, citing a 1914 law that allows it to intervene during times of crisis.

The chief security advisor to the interim prime minister said the government had not been consulted about the army’s decision, but says it remains in office.

“Everything is normal except the military is responsible for all national security issues,” said Paradorn Pattanatabut.

An army spokesman also insisted the imposition of martial law would have no impact on the caretaker government.

Observers say the deadlock in south-east Asia’s second-largest economy has got worse since Yingluck Shinawatra dissolved the lower house of parliament in December, and a court ordered her removal earlier this month for abuse of power.

On Monday, acting PM Niwatthamrong Boonsongphaisan insisted his government would not resign, resisting pressure from anti-government protesters.

qUWmFPQ0SJs
Roy Siemens

Roy likes politics. Knowledge is power, Roy constantly says, so he spends nearly all day gathering information and writing articles about the latest events around the globe. He likes history and studying about war techniques, this is why he finds writing his articles a piece of cake. Another hobby of his is horse – riding.

Recent Posts

Donald Trump and Elon Musk Celebrate Election Victory at UFC 309

Image source: Wikimedia Commons President-elect Donald Trump celebrated his election victory at the Ultimate Fighting…

5 days ago

White House 2024: Donald Trump Wins, Kamala Harris Calls Him to Concede Election

Millions of voters across the US chose to return Donald Trump to the White House…

2 weeks ago

Who Won? Donald Trump Declares Victory as He Addresses Jubilant Supporters in Florida

Donald Trump declares victory in the US election as he addresses jubilant supporters in Florida.…

2 weeks ago

Stocks Soaring as Donald Trump Closes in on US Victory

Stocks around the world are rising as Donald Trump appears to be on the cusp…

2 weeks ago

Who Won? Kamala Harris Cancels Election Night Party as Path to Victory Narrows

Donald Trump has won Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Georgia and taken a lead over Kamala…

2 weeks ago

Quincy Jones Dead at 91

Quincy Jones, the celebrated musician and producer who worked with Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, Ray…

2 weeks ago