BANGKOK, June 30 (TNA) – The Network of Students and People for Reform Thailand on Monday clarified its stance, stating it stands with the military but does not support a military coup, amid criticism that its recent rallies advocated for such an intervention.
Pichit Chaimongkol, a key leader of the organization, told reporters that opposition and government parties should pressure the prime minister to resign rather than accuse protesters of supporting a coup. He reiterated that their approach has never been to call for a coup.
Instead, they demand the prime minister take responsibility for her words and for coalition partners to withdraw from the government. He added that its assertion of standing alongside the military to protect national sovereignty does not imply support for a coup.
The June 28 protests, drawing thousands, stemmed from public outrage over a June 15 leaked phone call between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.
In the conversation, Paetongtarn’s comments were seen as critical of a Thai army commander and appeasing Hun Sen over a border dispute, fueling nationalist backlash and calls for her resignation.
Looking ahead, protest leaders will hold a major meeting on Tuesday, July 1, to discuss escalating their protests. Pichit confirmed the demonstrations would intensify and move closer to Government House.
This week, the group plans to submit letters to the Democrat Party and Chart Thai Pattana Party, urging them to withdraw from the ruling coalition. This follows a similar request made earlier to the United Thai Nation Party, which has yet to respond.
Regarding a potential Constitutional Court order for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to suspend her duties or dismiss the petition against her, the leaders said they would observe the direction of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, particularly the composition of the new cabinet, before making further moves. -819 (TNA)
