Defense Minister Expects Martial Law To Be Lifted Before Interim Government Ceases Its Role

[Jai Dee]

Defense Minister expects martial law to be lifted before interim government ceases its role

Defense Minister Boonrawd Somtat (บุญรอด สมทัศน์) affirmed that the interim government would finish its task as soon as it can. He also expects the martial law to be lifted before the interim government reaches its term.

The comment follows a statement by Minister Attached to the Prime Minister's Office Thirapat Serirangsan (ธีรภัทร เสรีรังสรรค์), who indicated that the interim government's working time may last as long as one and a half years. Gen. Boonrawd said this was probably personal opinion, but the prime minister has already assured that the interim government would finish its work as soon as it can and would cease its role once its tasks are done.

The defense minister said yesterday's discussions with the Malaysian leaders over military cooperation were a good sign in development and building of stability at the border between the two countries.

He said the Malaysian government affirmed it would provide full collaboration with the Thai counterpart in solving the southern unrest. Meanwhile existing cooperation would be continued.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 19 October 2006