Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said last night that he would not sacrifice the rule of law "just to please my political opponents or for what some people consider political reconciliation". Ads by Google
If this was done, there would be "never-ending chaos and conflict", he added, referring to the ongoing political conflict.
Abhisit admitted that the government found political division frustrating, but he added, "it's not for the lack of effort or sincerity on our part".
He was speaking during an annual dinner talk called "Meeting the Challenges of Change" organised by the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand at the InterContinental Bangkok Hotel
Abhisit said more and more Thai people should become stronger and resist any shortcuts or convenient paths taken for what some people call "reconciliation".
With regard to the possibility of a new general election, the PM said three criteria had to be met: economic recovery; all parties being satisfied with the election rules; and all sides proving that they are ready to contest in a free and fair election.
He said early elections would not be held if there were any signs of violence.
"What's the point of having an election that could become violent?" he asked during a question-and-answer session following his speech.
Regarding the lese majeste law, Abhisit expressed confidence that there would be some improvement because a newly created advisory board would be laying down some clear guidelines soon. However, he did admit that some people thought the law was being too liberally interpreted and abused, while some thought the law was too lax.
On the economic front, Abhisit said he was confident the Thai economy would grow by 3.5 per cent this year and Finance Minister Korn Chatikavanij would soon have the task of considering "unpopular laws" like property tax.
Abhisit added that the government was pushing for a welfare system for the entire population.
When asked by a Western journalist if he was absolutely sure that he is in full control of the Army, Abhisit replied: "Yes … so long as the government does not tell them to do illegal things."
When the PM was asked why he did not abolish the Internal Security Act as he was opposed to it before he became government head, Abhisit responded that it was up to Parliament to make decisions on laws and that he was open to any amendments.
Speaking on the violence in the South, Abhisit said peace in the region would only be achieved through the process of development and justice.
"I can't pretend that we don't have a long way to go. But there has been a clear change," he said.
The PM added that the government was in the process of passing new legislation that would integrate all agencies working in the deep South.
When asked if the government was willing to negotiate with insurgents in the restive region, Abhisit said: "No groups have come forward to show responsibility, so the government has no idea whom to negotiate with.
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