BANGKOK, Jan 23 - The pro-government Red Shirt movement, the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD), today announced its plan to stage a mass rally nationwide Jan 29 in a move to support the Feb 2 general election.
UDD chair Thida Thavornseth reasoned that anti-government movement, the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC), led by Suthep Thaugsuban, has been attempting to create conditions which could lead to a coup, combined with the heated situation after the state of emergency imposition yesterday and the shooting attack against Udon Thani-based Red Shirt leader Kwanchai Praipana.
She urged Red Shirt supporters to fight against such circumstances by joining a nationwide mass rally beginning next Wednesday, except in the capital and parts of its surrounding provinces which are under the 60-day state of emergency, in order to prevent the country from being ruled by a minority.
"The current situation is like (we) are waiting for a coup as the army has clearly stated that they will intervene if any violence occurs," said the UDD leader.
Ms Thida said provincial Red Shirt leaders will further discuss how they will mobilise the crowds and what activities will be held that day.
The UDD chair also asked her supporters across the country and in Bangkok to observe the advance polling scheduled for Sunday and collect useful information for the public.
Regarding the PDRC rallies at state offices to stop the work of civil servants despite the imposition of an emergency decree, Ms Thida called on the caretaker government to instruct security agencies to take legal action against those who violated the law to avoid further damage to the country.
Former Pheu Thai MP Vorachai Hema today condemned the attack against Kwanchai who was shot yesterday.
He also urged army chief Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha to clarify his remarks that the military is ready to take action if situation turns violent. (MCOT online news)