(2 December) Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has hinted that she was willing to dissolve Parliament for the sake of the "happiness of the Thai people".
But she rejected to follow the demands of the anti-government protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban, who called for the establishment of a "People′s Council" to transform the country to what Mr. Suthep describes as an "absolute democracy".
Ms. Yingluck made the remarks during a press conference earlier today, amidst the ongoing attempts by the anti-government protesters to unseat the government. A number of governmental offices and Ministries have been occupied by the protesters.
She insisted the government is not clinging to power at any cost. "We are ready to invite experts in laws and other fields, including ordinary people, to find solutions for our country, and to return the happiness to the people".
As for the demands of a "People′s Council" issued by the People′s Committee For Absolute Democracy With the King As Head of State (PCAD), Ms. Yingluck said while she is open to all suggestions from the protesters, they must be within the boundary of the laws and the Constitution.
"Mr. Suthep′s demands cannot be supported by any laws," said Ms. Yingluck, "But let me stress that we are still open to all channels to solve the problem together".
Asked whether she fears the military would launch a coup against her government, as they had done so against her brother, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra in 2006, Ms. Yingluck replied that the 2006 military coup has led to violent confrontations and suffering which she believes no one wants to see such tragedy repeating itself.
The Prime Minister also claimed she is willing to consider resignation or House dissolution if the protesters agree to leave the governmental buildings and disperse their rallies.
When a reporter asked her how would she justify her resignation to the people who had elected her into office, Ms. Yingluck said, "whatever that can bring back happiness to the Thais, that is the majority voice of the people".
She added, "If the country can return to peace, I am willing to do it".
For comments, or corrections to this article please contact: [email protected]
You can also find Khaosod English on Twitter and Facebook
http://twitter.com/KhaosodEnglish
http://www.facebook.com/KhaosodEnglish
