Bangkok: "Thawee" has emphasized the importance of peace and stated there is no need for public television appearances to discuss these matters. He acknowledges the violence targeting Thai Buddhists in the southern border provinces and supports a scientific investigation into the causes. Despite pressure from the opposition for expedited peace talks, Thawee insists discussions are ongoing and rejects suggestions of transforming the area into a special administrative region, while advocating for the protection of local language and culture. He clarifies that the Terrorism Act is an initiative of the Senate, not the government.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice, addressed the persistent violence in the southern border provinces, regions closely associated with the Prachachat Party. He highlighted the government's commitment to resolving these issues to ensure safety and sustainable peace. Thawee noted that efforts must align with constitutional mandates, emphasizing peaceful resolution of violence and conflicts. During a recent visit, he paid respects to fallen police officers and engaged with local security forces, underscoring the importance of state control and community protection. He detailed the security infrastructure in Narathiwat, including village headmen, village security guards, and a significant presence of rangers and police officers, while stressing the need for collaboration with local, religious, and spiritual leaders.
Thawee asserted that safeguarding human life is paramount, and the government has a coherent policy under the oversight of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai. Thawee is actively involved in these efforts, indicating ongoing discussions about the situation.
Addressing concerns over increased incidents targeting Thai Buddhists, Thawee reported ongoing investigations to understand the root causes scientifically. He clarified that recent violence is not religiously motivated but rather targeted against vulnerable groups, which he condemned.
When questioned about the opposition's call for swift peace negotiations, Thawee dismissed the necessity of televised discourse, emphasizing ongoing secret negotiations aimed at prioritizing public safety and living standards. He affirmed the government's respect for the opposition's viewpoints while adhering to constitutional processes, advocating for public participation, particularly from Thai Buddhists, in shaping their future.
Thawee acknowledged uncertainty regarding leadership in the peace talks, noting confusion over whether the Secretary-General of the National Security Council still held this responsibility following government changes. He emphasized the credibility of past interlocutors, citing a successful ceasefire agreement during Ramadan as evidence of their influence.
Addressing rumors of an impending anti-terrorism bill, Thawee clarified that the idea originated from the Senate, not the government. He reiterated the government's lack of initiative on this issue.
Thawee also addressed misconceptions about proposals to designate the southern border provinces as a special administrative region, referencing his visit to the Xinjiang Uyghur Special Administrative Region. He emphasized the importance of preserving local language and cultural practices without suppression.