Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangkok (Agenzia Fides) – Tension is rising in Thailand where the government, fearing the outbreak of widespread violence, has made a one-week extension of the application of the Internal Security Act, which strengthens security measures and calls for curfews and military checkpoints on the streets of Bangkok. While thousands of "Red Shirts,” supporters of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, have camped in the capital, many roads remain closed and government buildings and institutions are blocked off with military barricades. The situation, according to observers, could be about to explode into open violence. Yesterday, two grenades were fired from an M79 in the courtyard of the Ministry of Health, where the Ministry was holding a Cabinet meeting, causing minor damage and increasing tension and instability. The army has declared that the situation is for the most part under control.
Many fear that the violent degeneration of the mass protests could lead to a new economic collapse and could have a "domino effect" on national tourism. The Thai Chamber of Commerce has called for a speedy return of order, as long street protests "may have serious effects on tourism, trade, exports, and investment." "Already the governments of at least 30 countries have advised their citizens not to visit Thailand during this period," warned Dusit Nontanakorn, President of the Chamber of Commerce, "and even investors can easily lose confidence in doing business with our country. The parties must find a political solution as soon as possible."
Fides sources in the Thai Church remarked: "The conflict is ongoing, at times bitter, between two political groups. We hope they will soon find a peaceful solution for the good of the country. It is not easy, because the parties want to secure advantages and benefits, and because in the end, it is a struggle for power. In Bangkok, life continues. People are watching the protest with skepticism. Believers continue to pray. Christians and Buddhists are praying hard for peace and for the good of the country." (PA) (Agenzia Fides 24/3/2010)
