Thai government explains Section 44 exercise to Int'l community

BANGKOK, April 7 (TNA) - The government has explained its imposition of Section 44 of the Provisional Constitution in place of the martial law to foreign diplomats and journalists stationing in Thailand. Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Wissanu Krea-ngam, who oversees legal affairs, led other authorities concerned to explain the enforcement of Section 44 in lieu of the martial law to the foreign diplomats and journalists in Bangkok on Tuesday. Those participating in the session include diplomats from the European Union (EU), Canada, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Pakistan, Iran, South Korea, Brunei, Malaysia and the Philippines, as well as representatives from international news agencies, namely ABC, Voice of America, CNN, Reuters, AP, Kyodo and NHK, and those from international organizations. Wissanu said Thailand needs to use special laws to cope with the, probably, unusual situation and to pave the way for its reform. Wissanu stressed that Section 44 will be exercised only when it is necessary and human rights are respected. Colonel Winthai Suvari, Spokesman of the Thai army-led National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), stated that Section 44 will be exercised to tackle offences against the royal institution, national security and firearm control, along with observing NCPO orders, aimed to promote national development and reconciliation. According to the spokesman, Section 44 is only an additional instrument to protect people's life and property and it does not affect the general public, as they can live their normal life. (TNA)