Thai PM defends record, makes clear won't resign
THAILAND: Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej defended himself and
his administration on Sunday in the face of thousands of demonstrators
camped outside Government House calling for his resignation.
In his first public comments since Friday's march on the seat of
government by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), the 73-year-old
Samak, who was elected in December, left no doubts about his desire to
remain in office.
"The way I got into power was legal and my government is in line with
the law," the firebrand right-winger said in this weekly television
address.
Despite his determination, he said he would not send in either the
police or army to dismantle the PAD stage outside Government House, a
move that would trigger concern among investors in a country terrified
of political violence.
"I'll be patient for our country and will see who can be more
tolerant. I am confident that I can handle the situation. I will avoid a
clash with the PAD. On Monday, I will work at Government House. There
are other doors for me to enter," he said.
Bangkok, Sunday, Reuters
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