On 29 May 2014, Mr. Sek Wannamethee, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand held a press briefing for foreign journalists on the current situation in Thailand. The briefing was co-hosted by Lt. Gen. Chatchalerm Chalermsukh, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Royal Thai Army. Fifty-two foreign journalists from thirty-three News Agencies attended the briefing. Gists are as follows:

1. Rationale behind the actions of the NCPO: This must be viewed in the context of prevailing six months of political turmoil. Entrenched position and irreconcilable differences have led to escalating violence. The military was thus compelled to take control of national administration in order to provide a cooling-off period for all sides, and to prevent further deterioration of the situation. On 26th May, the Head of the NCPO has been appointed officially by Royal Promulgation.  This act is part of the customary tradition for Thailand’s constitutional monarch to appoint all administrative body of the country in this way. It must be emphasized also that the Monarchy is non-partisan and is therefore not involved in, and always remain above, politics.

2. Latest developments

2.1 Freedom of media: Both foreign and domestic journalists have been able to travel around to cover stories and provide accurate reporting. In fact, most terrestrial, satellite and cable television and radio stations have been able to resume their normal broadcasting.

2.2 Application of Martial Law: Martial law and curfew are intended to restore law and order, and prevent further untoward incidents. Above all, the Council is exercising its administrative power with utmost care.  So far, only 2 out of 16 provisions from the Martial Law Act B.E. 2457 (1914) have been applied to restore peace and order.

2.3 Summons of political leaders: a number of core leaders have been brought together in the hope to reduce further incitement of divisions. They have been well treated and accommodated in guest quarters. Their movements have been restricted in order to provide for a cooling-off period. They are able to return home within 7 days from the date they report themselves to the NCPO.

3. NCPO’s envisaged steps for the future

3.1 National Administration The priority of the NCPO is to ensure that national administration continue to function as normal hence the Permanent Secretaries of all Ministries have been appointed to act in the capacity of Ministers. Apart from the Council’s focus on implementing projects related to the livelihood and well-being of the people so as to promote social stability, other key public policies are still in place.

3.2 Commitments to the international community Acknowledging that no country can take an isolationistic approach in this globalized world, Thailand fully intends to continue our proactive foreign policy in both multilateral and bilateral framework. Meanwhile, The NCPO has reaffirmed that all diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Thailand and foreign nations remain unchanged from their latest status.

3.3 Roadmap to the general elections The NCPO aims to create the right conditions for national reconciliation and push forward the reform process, with the free and fair general elections as the final goal. Two key reform initiatives are the establishment of the National Reconciliation Centre and the reform of the civil service.

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