BANGKOK, Jan 29 — Thai Deputy Prime Minister Wisanu Krua-ngam has reaffirmed the necessity to keep martial law in force as advised by the national security sector and has given assurances that the law would not affect the lives of the people.
The comment came after US Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel advised Thailand to lift the martial law, in which the deputy premier voiced that the use of martial law in Thailand is not a problem, though the international community might be startled by just the name of it.
Thailand has implemented martial law for a long period, particularly in the southern border areas, though everyone seems to have forgotten that the country has been using it.
Martial law gives the military power over civilians in 10 other sectors, but once enacted, the military seldom carries out the ruling thoroughly.
The government foresees the use of martial law having little effect on the people's lives, though some might feel irritated.
And with that put aside, the national security sector still thinks that it is necessary to maintain martial law for domestic peace and harmony.
Asked whether he thinks that the United States is threatening the continued diplomatic ties between the two states, the deputy prime minister gave no response, as he believes that relevant agencies have already expressed their feelings on the matter.
The US advised based on its point of view and ideology and Thailand also knows what is best for the country. (MCOT online news)
