Thai PM says border clashes won't affect election

Thailand's prime minister vowed on Tuesday to press ahead with a planned election despite the bloodiest fighting at the border with neighbouring Cambodia in recent history. -- PHOTO: REUTERS

http://www.straitstimes.com/
 

via CAAI

 

Apr 26, 2011

BANGKOK - THAILAND'S prime minister vowed on Tuesday to press ahead with a planned election despite the bloodiest fighting at the border with neighbouring Cambodia in recent history.

Abhisit Vejjajiva said the clashes, which have left at least 13 soldiers dead and displaced thousands, will not halt preparations to dissolve the lower house of parliament soon for a vote expected to be held by early July.

'The border problem will not affect the house dissolution because there will be a caretaker government which has full authority,' he told reporters, adding that it was possible that the vote date could be announced next week.

Thailand and Cambodia, which are fighting in two areas near ancient temples along their shared jungle border, have indicated that they are preparing for ceasefire talks.

The neighbours have come under mounting international pressure to end the violence after five days of heavy weapons fire.

Thailand remains deeply divided after deadly street protests last year and the poll is expected to heighten political sensitivities in the country. -- AFP