Since the middle of last century, the Southeast Asian nation of Thailand has seen dozens of coups. The latest one was in the autumn of 2006, when the army deposed a popular Prime Minister named Thaksin Shinawatra. He is now abroad, but continues to command considerable support at home.
In the period since March, thousands of his red-shirted followers have been occupying central Bangkok with demands that the government call fresh elections and implement overdue reforms. A brief but forceful crackdown has brought this protest to an end, leaving dozens dead and hundreds hurt. Bangkok and more than 20 provinces are under a state of emergency, which involves an overnight curfew.
According to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, these regulations have to stay until full normality is back. The leaders of the red-shirted rioters have given themselves up. Those with involvement in terrorism, looting or arson are going to face justice. Residents who suffered injury or damage are eligible for compensation. King Phumiphon Adunyadet is being widely looked forward to for a judgment on the situation.
Amid all the trouble, it is business as usual in Thailand’s all important holiday industry. Russia and some 60 other countries have cautioned nationals against visiting central Bangkok. All other Thai areas, including all popular beach resorts, are absolutely safe. My friends there tell me about crowded restaurants, beaches and massage parlors. As for central Bangkok, it is sealed off, and there is no way you can get there for the time being, said Alexei Ionov, Russian official in Bangkok.
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