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Southeast Asia
Thai Red Shirts prudently call off rally
2010-04-21
[Iran Press TV Latest] Anti-government protesters have cancelled demonstrations in capital city Bangkok due to what they have described as heavy military presence.

On Tuesday, thousands of heavily armed Thai security forces have been deployed in Silom financial district of Bangkok to prevent Red Shirt protesters from holding rallies. The Silom District is considered home to some of Thailand's largest companies.

"We are not going to mobilize to anywhere because there are too many soldiers on the street," said Nattawut Saikua, a leader of an opposition group that calls itself United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD).

Meanwhile, the Thai army has made explicit its determination to use live ammunition against "red-shirt" anti-government protesters under specific circumstances.

An army spokesman told a news briefing that troops were ready to use their weapons "decisively."

The Red Shirts are supporters of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra who was ousted in a bloodless military coup in 2006. They have been demanding for incumbent Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to dissolve the parliament and call new elections.

Earlier this month, at least 25 people were killed and more than 850 others wounded in clashes between police and protesters.

Several weeks ago, Premier Abhisit announced a state of emergency in Bangkok and nearby areas.
Posted by:Fred

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