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| Southeast Asia |
| Southerner wins election as new Thai Muslim head |
| 2010-05-17 |
| After winning an election by an overwhelming majority yesterday, Aziz Pitakumpol has become the 18th spiritual leader of this country's Muslims. He is the first Chula Ratchamontri from the South in the 400-year history of the position. Mr Aziz said he was thankful for the overwhelming support and would seek the cooperation of the ummah in his work. "You are welcome to offer advice, and tell me when I have done something wrong. I will do my best," Mr Aziz told the electorate. He later told the Bangkok Post he would like to settle in to his new job before speaking publicly. "I realise that there are expectations that I could or should do something about the southern problem, but this is not an election to a political post," he said. "I represent not only the southern region but am also a representative of all Muslims in the country." The election was organised on a 6 million baht budget and held amid allegations of vote-rigging. Mr Saman said he had heard about the vote-rigging but he did not spend any money campaigning. Nabil Ashri, the Saudi Arabia charge d'affaires, said the Chula Ratchamontri would have to work hard to improve the well-being of Muslims. Mr Aziz's understanding of the southern problem would help restore stability, Mr Ashri said. Pakistan ambassador Sohail Mahmood said he was honoured to witness the election. It was undertaken in a democratic and transparent manner, said Mr Mahmood, adding that the position would serve as a bridge between Muslims and other Thais, and the government and the rest of the world. |
| Posted by:ryuge |