2006 Thai coup d'état

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The 2006 Thailand coup d'état took place on 19 September, 2006, when members of the Royal Thai Army staged a coup against the government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The coup, which is Thailand's first in fifteen years, followed a year-long political crisis involving Thaksin and political opponents and occurred less than a month before elections were scheduled to be held, on 15 October.[1] The military postponed the upcoming elections, suspended the Constitution, dissolved Parliament, banned protests (arresting all protesters caught in breach of the ban), suppressed and censored media outlets, declared martial law, and arrested Cabinet members. The coup was bloodless, with no casualties reported.

International government statements concerning the coup ranged from harsh denouncations (including Australia, New Zealand, Denmark) to non-interference (including China, Laos). The US stated that it was "disappointed", and that the coup had "no justification". It also noted that commitments to democratic elections must be met. The US also suggested that certain aid to Thailand would be reviewed and that a free trade agreement would be delayed. The EC noted its "grave concern" and found it "highly regrettable". It also noted that democratic order must be reverted to without delay. The UN noted that coups were "not a practice to be encouraged" and that in the African Union, "they do not support those who come to power through the barrel of a gun."

Events

Earlier coup rumours

File:The nation 200506.jpg
Headline from the Thai newspaper The Nation, 20 May 2006

The coup followed months of rumours about unrest in the armed forces and possible coup plots. In May 2006, General Sondhi Boonyaratkalin issued assurances that the military would not intervene after rumours began circulating of a possible military coup. On 20 July 2006, around a hundred middle-ranking army officers said to be supporters of Thaksin were reassigned by the army high command, fuelling rumours that the army was divided between supporters and opponents of the prime minister. In August 2006, there were reports of tank movements near Bangkok, but the military attributed these to a scheduled exercise.[2] In early September, Thai police arrested five army officers, all members of Thailand's counter insurgency command, after intercepting one of the officers with a bomb in a car allegedly targeting the prime minister's residence [3]

Day one

 
Soldiers of the Royal Thai Army in the streets of Bangkok on the day after the coup.

On the evening of 19 September 2006, the Thai military and police overthrew the elected government of Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. At the time, the premier was in New York City for a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly. At 18:30, Royal Thai Army Special Forces units moved from Lopburi province to Bangkok. At the same time, Prem Tinsulanonda, Privy Council President, had an audience with King Bhumibol Adulyadej, reportedly concerning a merit-making ceremony for Bua Kitiyakara. By 21:00, the Special Forces units arrived in Bangkok. At 21:30, Army-owned television broadcaster Channel 5 ceased scheduled programming and aired songs authored by King Bhumibol. By this time, rumours started spreading that the military had arrested Deputy Prime Minister in charge of national security Chitchai Wannasathit and Defence Minister Thammarak Isaragura na Ayuthaya, and that Thaksin's son had left the country. At 21:40, police commandos arrived at the residence of Thaksin. Army tanks soon took positions throughout Bangkok.

At 22:20, Thaksin declared a state of emergency by telephone from New York. He transferred General Sonthi Boonyaratglin from his post as Army Commander to a position at the Prime Minister's Office and appointed Supreme Commander General Ruangroj Mahasaranon to take control of the crisis. His declaration, broadcast on television, was cut immediately afterwards.[4]

At 23:00, a junta calling itself the Administrative Reform Council (ARC) announced by television that military and police units had Bangkok and the surrounding areas. They noted that:

The armed forces commander and the national police commander have successfully taken over Bangkok and the surrounding area in order to maintain peace and order. There has been no struggle. We ask for the cooperation of the public and ask your pardon for the inconvenience.[5]

At 23:50, the ARC issued a second statement explaining the reasons for the coup d'état, where they said the junta leadership "wishes to reaffirm that it has no intention to become the administrators of the country." The Council promised to retain the king as head of state and to return administrative power to the Thai people "as quickly as possible."[6]

By 00:39 a third statement was issued, suspending the constitution and dissolving the Cabinet, both houses of Parliament, and the Constitutional Court.

Foreign news channels, such as BBC World, CNN, CNBC and Bloomberg Television, were reported to have been taken off the air,[7] although foreign broadcasters were still able to broadcast relatively freely from the Thai capital. Telecommunications networks were also left untouched, meaning news could travel in and out of the country via telephone and the internet. All local stations then aired a military speech loop stating everything would be over shortly.[8]

The Army declared martial law nationwide. They also ordered all soldiers to report to their barracks and banned troop movements unauthorised by the coup leaders.[1] Television footage showed heavily armed troops in M113 armoured personnel carriers and M998 HMMWV vehicles on the streets of the city. Many soldiers and military vehicles wore strips of yellow cloth as symbols of loyalty to the king, whose royal colour is yellow.

Junta commander Sonthi Boonyaratglin confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister Chitchai Wannasathit and Defence Minister Thammarak Isaragura na Ayuthaya had been arrested.[9] High-ranked civil servants were ordered to report to the Council while government offices and banks would be closed on 20 September.[10]

A few hours after news of the coup broke, BBC News reported that the leader of the coup would be meeting with the King later in the day, although it was unclear at that time what King Bhumibol's position on the coup was.

Former prime minister Chuan Leekpai said of the events, "As politicians, we do not support any kind of coup, but during the past five years, the government of Thaksin created several conditions that forced the military to stage the coup. Thaksin has caused the crisis in the country."[11]

Day two

File:BP200906.jpg
Frontpage of the Bangkok Post, 20 September 2006

At 20:30 UTC on 19 September (16:30 in New York City time; 03:30 on 20 September in Bangkok) it was announced that the Prime Minister had cancelled his speech at the United Nations.[12] The prime minister watched his downfall on television from a hotel in New York after his speech was cancelled. Tom Kruesopon, an adviser to Thaksin and a member of his ruling party, said the premier "has not given up his power. He is not seeking asylum."[13]

General Sonthi Boonyaratglin appeared on television at 09:20 on Wednesday morning and claimed that the military had needed to seize power in order to unite the nation after months of political turmoil:

We have seized power. The constitution, the Senate, the House of Representatives, the Cabinet and the Constitutional Court have all been terminated. We agreed that the caretaker prime minister has caused an unprecedented rift in society, widespread corruption, nepotism, and interfered in independent agencies, crippling them so they cannot function. If the caretaker government is allowed to govern it will hurt the country. They have also repeatedly insulted the king. Thus the council needed to seize power to control the situation, to restore normalcy and to create unity as soon as possible.

The accusations of the junta should be put into context. For instance, a 2006 World Bank study found that during the Thaksin government from 2002 to 2005, Thailand's regulatory quality and ability to control corruption actually improved.[14]. For more detailed information, see Policies of the Thaksin government.

Shortly after his coup, Thai TV programmes resumed whilst cable TV partly resumed. However, main foreign news channels (CNN, BBC, CNBC, NHK and Bloomberg) remained blacked out.

At 12:14, coup authorities demanded the "cooperation" of mass media - IT ministry authorised to check, censor information that affects the council work. (Source Bangkok Post).

A senior army officer said, on 20 September, that coup leaders in Thailand had sealed the country's northern border with Laos and Myanmar, following the overnight military power grab in Bangkok.[15]

Thaksin Shinawatra boarded a chartered Thai Airways flight at New York's John F Kennedy with Deputy Prime Minister Surakiart Sathirathai, spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee, and his personal assistant Padung Limcharoenrat.

In an interview before leaving New York, he said,

I didn't expect that this will happen. I came here as Prime Minister but left as an unemployed man. It's fine that no one gives me job. I volunteered to work but they didn't want to give me job, so it's fine.[16]

He then departed for London to meet with his family who had fled Thailand for the United Kingdom. He arrived at London Gatwick airport at 17:35 (16:35 GMT) and was taken to his home in the London city centre.[17] A Foreign Office spokeswoman said that Thaksin's trip was a private visit.[18]

At 15:35, junta leader Sonthi Boonyaratglin announced that the military had no plan to seize the personal assets of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and no plans to seize shares of Shin Corporation back from Temasek Holdings. Early in 2006, Thaksin sold his family's shares in Shin Corporation to Temasek. [19]

General Sonthi said on a television statement that at 20:17, King Bhumibol Adulyadej had endorsed him as the head of the interim governing council. He also claimed to restore democracy in a year's time. [19]

Late in the evening of Wednesday, a spokesman of the Administrative Reform Council announced that the king has issued a royal command to appoint Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin as the ARC president. [20]

Contradicting earlier announcement the ARC issued a 13th statement maintaining the status of the newly selected Election Commission and adding that the EC ACT would organise election of local administrations and councils [21].

The Administrative Reform Council then issued its seventh order dividing responsibilities into four divisions as part of responsibility sharing. The four divisions are the ARC, the secretariat, the advisory division and special affairs division [22].

Unfolding events, day three and beyond

 
Thai soldier armed with M16 rifle stands on the streets of Bangkok.

The files and papers related to the investigation of the alleged[23] car bomb plot against Mr Thaksin (Aug. 24, 2006), mostly confessions from Sgt-Maj Chakrit Chantra, the only suspect to admit links to the plot, have vanished from the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) Tuesday night around 9:30. Police loyal to deputy police chief Pol Gen Priewphan Damapong (brother of ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's wife Khunying Potjaman) were also seen loading assault weapons from the CSD in vehicles that went off to an unknown destination[24].

At 4:00 pm (0900 GMT) on Thursday, Thailand's coup leader ordered media executives to army headquarters to tell them to stop carrying expression of opinion following the military takeover, an army official said. The move came one day after the military imposed strict controls on the media and said they would block "disinformation" deemed harmful to the provisional military council now in control of Thailand. The army official said the normal television program will be resumed but the council would begin making its own televised announcements every two hours starting from 11:00 am (0400 GMT)[25].

RTA Troops and tanks begin the process of reducing their presence at key government facilities. Four tanks remained at Government House early Thursday, compared to about 10 the previous day, and there are fewer armed soldiers on guard. "As of now we have only two companies of troops — some 50 to 60 — deployed at Government House but total withdrawal is up to the army commander because there is not yet complete trust in the situation," Lieutenant Romklao Thuwatham[26].

Thailand's coup leader ordered two more top aides, Newin Chidchob, the minister attached to the premier's office, and Yongyuth Tiyapairat, minister of natural resources and environment, to deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to report to the military, one day after detaining his senior deputy. "They must report themselves to the Council for Political Reform at Army Headquarters" at noon (0500 GMT) Thursday, the order said, referring to the provisional body the coup leaders have set up[27].

Thursday September 21, ousted deputy prime minister Somkid Jatusripitak arrived at the Don Muang International Airport at 2:25 pm returning from France[28].

12:30: The chartered Thai Airways jet that ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra took to New York and later to London arrived at the Don Muang Military Airport after being diverted from Bangkok's commercial airport. Onboard the plane were some 20 members of the press corps and low-ranking officials who had travelled with him. 10 heavily armed commandos immediately surrounded the plane and conducted an inspection of the plane to make sure the deposed premier was not trying to sneak back into the country. All were released after their passports were stamped[29].

Ousted Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra called Thursday for snap new elections in his homeland and confirmed he is bowing out of politics, urging "national reconciliation" after the coup in Bangkok. In a statement issued in London, where he flew following the coup Wednesday, the billionaire politician said he will devote himself to development and possibly charity work.

We hope the new regime will quickly arrange a new general election and continue to uphold the principles of democracy for the future of all Thais[30].

Columnist Thanong Khanthong of The Nation claimed that Gen. Sonthi acted to prevent an imminent military coup by Thaksin. The columnist wrote that Thaksin intended to use the political rally planned by the People's Alliance for Democracy at the Royal Plaza on Wednesday 20 September to trigger violence and then declare a state of emergency and place the country under martial law. General Sonthi would have learned from an intelligence report that Yongyuth Tiyapairat and Newin Chidchob were planning to organise a counter protest with the support of the Forestry Police armed with HK 33 rifles[31] and acted before the bloodshed was set to take place[32]. On Friday, the Rangers were in the process of being disarmed[33]. Both Newin and Yongyuth are in custody, the latter being accused of mobilising the Forestry Police[31][34].

Thailand's political situation

Thailand's deposed government

Outside of Thailand

Thaksin Shinawatra flew from New York City, where he was attending the United Nations General Assembly, to London on what was called a personal visit. His daughter, Pinthongta, is a student at the London Metropolitan University. Thaksin's wife and two other children were reported to have left Thailand for London via Singapore.[35]

General Sonthi Boonyaratglin said Wednesday that ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra could return to the country, but warned he could face criminal charges. "Any prosecution would proceed under the law, and would depend on the evidence," Sonthi said.[36]

Surakiart Sathirathai, deputy premier was with Thaksin attending the UN General Assembly in New York when the military staged a coup on Tuesday against the prime minister. Surakiart remains in the hotly contested race to succeed UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, a Thai official said Wednesday. "The (new) Thai authorities have reaffirmed their support for Dr Surakiart's candidature for the UNSG," Thai ambassador to the United States Virasakdi Futrakul told AFP. "There's no change. He's still in the race." The former Deputy Premier had left for Bangkok after the Junta took power and is reported to be returning to New York shortly.[37]

Finance Minister Thanong Bidaya remained in Singapore where he was attending the annual meeting of the World Bank/IMF. Commerce Minister Somkid Jatusripitak remained in Paris but returned to Bangkok on Thursday.[38] Foreign Minister Kantathi Suphamongkhon flew from Paris, where he was attending the Thai-France Cultural Exhibition presided over by HRH Princess Sirindhorn, to London.[39] Agriculture Minister Sudarat Keyuraphan was reported to have fled to Paris with her family.[40] Thai Rak Thai party executive and former Interior Minister Kongsak Wantana left the country for Germany.[35]

Arrested or detained by the junta

Deputy Prime Minister in charge of national security Chitchai Wannasathit was arrested after the coup and detained at the Army Command. He was detained on Wednesday and is now being held at a guesthouse on the northern outskirts of Bangkok, according to army spokesman Colonel Acar Tiproj.[41] Defence Minister Thammarak Isaragura na Ayuthaya is in hiding. His whereabouts are unknown. Former Secretary-General to the Premier Prommin Lertsuridej and Justice Ministry Permanent Secretary Somchai Wongsawat (who is Thaksin's brother-in-law) were also placed under arrest on the second floor of the Army Command building.[35] The Secretary-General was last reported being detained at the same guesthouse as the Deputy Chitchai Wannasathit. [42]

Natural Resources and Environmental Minister Yongyuth Tiyapairat and Deputy Agriculture Minister Newin Chidchop were ordered to report themselves to the junta by noon Thursday. The junta did not specify what punishment they would receive if they failed to report. At the time, there were reports that both Yongyuth and Newin were in London.[43] Troops raided Yongyuth's houses in Mae Chan district of Chiang Rai province (at 10.35 Wednesday) and Bangkok (Wednesday night), but did not find him.[44] Both Yongyuth and Newin reported themselves at Army Headquarters on Thursday, and were detained.[45][46]

In Thailand

Several party executives including Chaturon Chaisang, Phumtham Wechayachai and Suranand Vejjajiva were reported to still be in Thailand and not arrested by the junta. TRT MP Veera Musikapong was also at liberty. Party Deputy and Industry Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit and former Social Development and Human Security Minister Watana Muangsook were reported to be staying in the country at an unidentified ___location.[35][47]

Civil servants and government agencies

Pol Col Priewphan Damapong, Deputy Police Commissioner-General and brother-in-law of Thaksin Shinawatra, reported himself to the national police chief in line with the junta's orders.[48]

The military junta affirmed Wednesday that along with the abolition of the Constitution, the Constitutional Court and other independent organisations set up under the abrogated charter were automatically abolished. However, the status of Auditor-General Jaruvan Maintaka was maintained by an order of the junta. The same order dissolved the State Audit Commission. She appeared when summoned along with senior government officials by the junta.[49]

Council for Democratic Reform under Constitutional Monarchy

The 11th official announcement of the military regime outlined its leadership. The junta formally called itself the Administrative Reform Council and consisted of the leaders of all branches of the Thai military and police.[50]

At 15:35 on 20 September 2006 (local time in Bangkok), the junta denied that it had appointed a Prime Minister, and noted that General Sonthi Boonyaratglin had the powers of a Premier.[51]

On Thursday 21 of September, and to avoid confusion over the name of the new administration, the Council for Democratic Reform under Constitutional Monarchy (CDRM) spokesman Lt General Palangkun Klahan asked the local press to report its name in full because “The name is important in relaying a right message and its shortened version might be misleading". Palangkun was referring to the 1992 coups staged by the National Peace-keeping Council adding “The goal of the CDRM is to heal the social divisions by improving the political system and not to cling to power” [52].

Thailand's future government

Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin, leader of the Administrative Reform Council told foreign diplomats that a civilian government and prime minister would be appointed to run the country within two weeks.[53] The constitution would be amended for a rapid return to democracy through a national election in a year's time.[54] This would imply that the October 2006 elections will not take place as scheduled.

Sonthi confirmed a previous statement saying that Thaksin and the members of his cabinet have done no wrong and can return to Thailand. Sonthi said Thailand was and still is a democracy and that tourists can continue to visit the country normally. The U.S. State Department has not issued a travel warning for Thailand, but has advised American tourists to be vigilant.

On 20 September 2006, Thailand's Army chief and current interim leader, General Sonthi Boonyaratglin, pledged to hold general elections by October 2007. [55]

The coup leaders have approached former senator Kraisak Chonhavan to serve as foreign minister in the interim government. One of his aides told The Nation that Kraisak was seriously weighing the pros and cons of the offer, but was concerned about strong doubts expressed by the international community over the legitimacy of the coup. [56]

Restrictions on human rights and freedom of expression

Restrictions on broadcasting and the press

In the evening of Tuesday 19th of September, regular programmes on Thai television channels went off air and were replaced by video clips and music about the king. All Thai channels were back on air the next day shortly after Sondhi's TV conference.

On the morning of Wednesday, 20 September, the websites of the leading Bangkok newspapers Bangkok Post, The Nation and Thai Rath were functioning normally and reporting the coup. (Both the Bangkok Post and The Nation have been strong critics of Thaksin's government.) The Daily News website included extensive photographic coverage of the military operations.

The coup leaders demanded the cooperation of Thai mass media and authorised the censorship of news reports that might be negative to the military.[57]

By 14.50 on 20 September, the 1997 Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand (also known as the "People's Constitution") was deleted from the website of the National Assembly of Thailand.[58]

The junta announced that at 16.00, Thursday 21 September 2006, the junta will summon media executives to Army Headquarters and order them to stop carrying expressions of public opinion. This would include a ban against the common of broadcasting viewer text messages on a ticker at the bottom of the screen. The junta did not say whether the ban would extend to newspaper editorials or internet web boards.[59]

On Thursday 21 September 2006, the junta ordered more than 300 community radio stations in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son to suspend broadcasts. Community radio stations in Lamphun, Lampang, and Phayao were also ordered to turn their transmitters off. In addition, the pro-Thaksin Muan Chon Community Radio in Udon Thani stopped broadcasting on Wednesday. Police were stationed at the radio building as well as the office of Siang Tham Community Radio Station, owned by revered monk Luangta Maha Bua. Maha Bua had been a key supporter of the People's Alliance for Democracy.[60]

Restrictions on political meetings and political parties

The military also banned any gathering of five or more people for political purposes, threatening violators with six months in jail. Later that day, the military cracked down on protestors, and arrested activist Chalard Worachat along with hunger striker and former MP Thawee Kraikup at Democracy Monument while they were protesting against the coup peacefully. The two and others had unfolded a banner reading "Fasting in Protest Against the Destroyer of Democracy".[57]

The anti-Thaksin People's Alliance for Democracy formally cancelled its scheduled rally for 20 September 2006 and later dissolved itself, after having reached its self-set goal of toppling the Thaksin government. [61][62] The status of the Mass Party, established by PAD leaders, was not known.

Thailand's coup leaders Thursday banned political parties from holding meetings or from conducting any other activities, according to a statement read on national television. The junta also barred the establishment of new political parties.

In order to maintain law and order, meetings of political parties and conducting of other political activities are banned.[63]

"Political gatherings of more than five people have already been banned, but political activities can resume when normalcy is restored," the statement said.[64]

A few hours before the Thursday ban on political activities, Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva criticized the coup:

We cannot and do not support any kind of extra-constitutional change, but it's done. The country has to move forward and the best way forward is for the coup leaders to quickly return power to the people and carry out reforms they promised. They have to prove themselves. I urge them to lift all restrictions as soon as possible. There is no need to write a brand new constitution. They could make changes to the 1997 constitution and if that's the case, there is no reason to take a year. Six months is a good time.[65]

Internet Censorship

The junta imposed censorship on television on the first day of the coup, however, they were slow in implementing censorship on the internet. On the 4th day, one site, which was meant for free speech reporting by civilians inside the country, has been shut down by the junta [66][67].

Role and position of the King

It was widely assumed by Thai analysts and the international media that the coup had the support of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The silence of both the King and his most trusted advisor, former Prime Minister and Privy Council President, retired General Prem Tinsulanonda, on the day of the coup, was taken as indicating support. Remarks made earlier in 2006 by Thaksin had been widely understood as a criticism of Prem’s continuing influence in Thai politics.

At the time that Special Forces started mobilizing from Lopburi to Bangkok, Prem was having an audience with the King.[4] This led to speculation outside Thailand that the King had advance knowledge of the coup, or even that he had executive control over it, although there was no direct evidence for this.

The day after the coup, the King issued a statement saying: "In order to create peace in the country, the King appoints General Sonthi Boonyaratglin as head of the Council for Political Reform. All people should remain peaceful and civil servants should listen to orders from General Sonthi Boonyaratglin from now on."[68] Given the extensive reserve powers retained by the King, this statement gave legitimacy to the coup and legal authority to Sonthi’s position.

Many Thai analysts have said that the King must have at least been in favour of the coup. "The role of the king was critical in this crisis," said Thitinan Pongsudhirak of Chulalongkorn University, adding that "This coup was nothing short of Thaksin versus the King. He is widely seen as having implicitly endorsed the coup." Thitinan said he believed the King had allowed the coup to take place as it was the best option available. "What we were heading for otherwise was violence in the streets," he said. Sulak Sivaraksa, a well-known social critic, said, "Without his involvement, the coup would have been impossible." Sulak added that the King is "very skilful. He never becomes obviously involved. If this coup goes wrong, Sonthi will get the blame, but whatever happens, the King will only get praise."[69]

The Bangkok correspondent of The Australian, Peter Alford, wrote: "The King’s overriding commitment has always been to social stability… and by December last year, he had clearly lost any faith in Thaksin’s capacity to govern without wedging the country apart… All Prem need do is refrain from criticising the coup… for almost all Thais to believe they know the King's will."[70]

National reactions

Control of the media, cancellation of the election, ban on protests, ban on political activity, and arrest of opposition leaders by the military government has limited information concerning the reaction of the public in Thailand.

There will be an anti-coup gathering at Siam Paragon at 6pm today (22 September).[71]

Media

In an editorial, Bangkok's English-language broadsheet, The Nation, gave qualified support to the coup. It described Thaksin as "a greedy politician who had pursued self interest at the expense of public good." Ideally, it said, "the likes of Thaksin should be rejected at the ballot box or through public pressure in the form of peaceful protests." In the circumstances, however, it said, the coup "may be a necessary evil." Nevertheless, the editorial said, "the seizure of power, albeit one that was achieved without the loss of lives, is nonetheless a form of political violence that is incompatible with the democratic aspirations of the Thai people." There must be an early return to democracy, it said.[72]

Thanaphol Eiwsakul, editor of Fah Diew Kan magazine (which had been censored by the Thaksin government), urged the public to resist the coup by exercising their right to protest coups as guaranteed by Article 65 of the 1997 Constitution. He vowed to stage a protest on Thursday, 21 September 2006.[73]

Public support

 
Thai women bringing food supporting soldiers in an alleyways nearby Hualamphong Railway Station

On Wednesday, 20 September 2006, Suan Dusit Rajabhat University published the result of a poll of 2019 people. The results are that 84% support the coup d'état, and 75% believe the coup will "improve politics". Only 5% believe it will make politics worse.[74][75]

The Nation noted that local reaction was largely subdued. Although the Bangkok middle-class was gladdened at the coup, Thaksin's rural supporters lacked real leaders to register strong voices of dissent.[76]

Many Thai people in Bangkok and surrounding area have come supporting the soldiers by bringing food, drinks, and flowers.

Several Thai people in New York City demonstrated outside the UN showing support for the coup. [77]

Public protests against the coup

 
Hunger striker Thawee Kraikup before his arrest

Organised local opposition to the coup was muted, due to a military ban against protests. International protests against the coup were scattered, with a group of demonstrators protesting in front of the Thai Consulate in New York City. Similar protests were also planned for the Orange County/Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area.[78]

Activist Chalard Worachat and former MP Thawee Kraikup held a protest against the junta at the Democracy Monument. Thawee held up a sign saying "Fasting in Protest Against the Destroyer of Democracy." Military forces arrived soon afterwards and arrested Chalard at 12.30.[79] Thawee refused to stop his hunger strike and was arrested 3 hours later. Thawee actively resisted arrest.

A student group, the "News Center for Student Activities" also issued a statement condemning the coup, saying it was "anti-democratic and truly dictatorial". The group urged the Thai people to wear black to mourn the death of Thai democracy and to refrain from co-operating with the "military junta".

The vice president of the Thammasat University Student Union stated on 20 September that it is holding talks with representatives of student unions from other universities in order to prepare a response. The Political Satire Group of Thammasat University erected a large sign at Rangsit Center protesting the coup.[80]

Several blogs reported that a group calling itself the "19 September Network against Coup d'Etat" organized a petition signing at 18.00 on Friday 22 September 2006 at the Siam Paragon shopping center in Bangkok.[81][82][83] The Network was joined by the Student Activity Information Resource (SAIR). An SAIR organizer claimed that he had submitted a petition at the office of the National Human Rights Commission, urging it to protect their right to gather at Siam Paragon.[84]

An active on-line petition organized by Thongchai Winichakul, of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, was also set up at the PetitionOnline website. An on-line web board located at 19sep.org was shut down by the hosting service on orders of the Thai Information and Communications Technology Ministry[85], who in turn are now receiving orders from the junta.

Human rights groups

Saneh Chamarik, chairman of the state National Human Rights Commission, stated in an interview

I do not think [the coup] is about progression or regression [of democracy] but about problem solving.

His remark was criticized by Suwit Lertkraimethi, an organizer of the 19 September Network against Coup d'Etat, who noted, "His role is to protect human rights, but his statement showed his approval of human-rights violations." Suwit demanded Saneh's resignation from the NHRC.[86]

The Bangkok-based Asian Human Rights Commission was critical of the coup. "The Asian Human Rights Commission is gravely disturbed by this takeover of power. It has no place in Thailand at a time that parliamentary democracy, despite difficulties, was maturing and taking root." The Commission called on the military to appoint a caretaker civilian government swiftly and on the United Nations General Assembly to condemn the coup. New York-based Human Rights Watch was also critical of the coup. "Thaksin's rule had seriously eroded respect for human rights in Thailand, but suspending basic rights under the constitution is not the answer," said Brad Adams, Asia director of Human Rights Watch. "Thailand needs to solve its problems through the rule of law and the people exercising their right to choose their own leaders."[87]

The Association for People's Rights was also critical of the coup. In a formal statement, it noted that the coup was destructive to the democratic system and would result in serious human rights infractions. The Association demanded that the junta respect human rights, involve public participation to draft a constitution that protected human rights at least as well as the abrogated 1997 Constitution, and hold speedy elections.[88]

Others

Thailand's southern Muslims, who widely despised ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra, say they hope the Muslim general, General Sonthi Boonyaratglin, who overthrew him will follow through on his offer to hold peace talks with Islamic separatists. Sonthi, the first Muslim to head the Thai army, was previously tasked with resolving the bloody conflict that has claimed over 1,400 lives, and there is optimism that his conciliatory approach may now produce results.[89]

Government statements

The strict controls imposed by the military on the media restrict people’s access to reactions from the world community though both The Nation and The Bangkok Post have published some of them. Information is available to those able to access the Internet or receiving TV channel by satellites not controlled by the junta.

Americas

  •   Canada - In a press release, Minister of Foreign Affairs Peter MacKay said, "Canada is deeply concerned by these developments. We urge a peaceful solution to this crisis in conformity with the country’s constitution. Thailand has made marked progress in terms of respect for human rights and the rule of law, and Canada urges all parties to continue to uphold these values."[90]
  •   United States
    • The State Department initially announced that it was "monitoring the situation with concern."[91] A spokesman said, "We look to the Thai people to resolve their political differences in a peaceful manner and in accord with the principles of democracy and the rule of law."[92]
    • Later on, the US's criticism increased in severity, with State Department Deputy Spokesman Tom Casey saying, "There's no justification for a military coup in Thailand or in anyplace else, and we certainly are extremely disappointed by this action. It's a step backward for democracy in Thailand. We very much urge that democratic elections are held as soon as possible, which is a commitment military officials have made. That commitment needs to be met, and it needs to be respected. There are also consequences when these kinds of actions take place, and obviously, in light of what's happened, in light of this coup, there are aspects of our relationship that we're going to have to review."[93] Casey later noted that the US would like to see elections held earlier than the one-year timetable set by the coup leaders.
    • U.S. Ambassador to the UN John R. Bolton noted that "We have press reports and I think for now the important thing is to look for the sustaining of constitutional processes in Thailand."[94]
    • White House Press Secretary Tony Snow said that "We're disappointed in the coup. We hope those who mounted it will make good and make good swiftly on their promises to restore democracy." Snow also hinted that currently inconclusive talks with Bangkok on a Free Trade Agreement, might also depend on a return to democratic rule. "Once you have democracy restored, we'll also be in a position to move forward on a free trade agreement with them."[95]
    • Tom Casey also warned that certain US aid to Thailand could be reviewed, figures appear to be referring to some categories of assistance dependent on democracy being maintained. [96] Casey later noted that the US is also reviewing its aid to Thailand. Under the so-called Foreign Operations Assistance Act, the United States has budgeted about 14 million dollars in bilateral assistance, including four million dollars in the military area, to Thailand in fiscal 2006.[97]
  •   Costa Rica - Finance Minister Guillermo Zúñiga lamented the fact that some people think "these types of ways [coups] can solve problems."[98]

Asia

  • Template:Country data flagcountry - Beijing brushed off Thailand's military coup as an internal affair and wished the country "harmony and prosperity". "It's Thailand's own internal affair. The PRC has consistently upheld the principle of non-interference in other countries' internal affairs," the foreign ministry said in a statement posted on its website. [99][100][101]
  •   Hong Kong - Security secretary Ambrose Lee said on 20 September that Hong Kong residents in Thailand should take care of themselves, their property and their personal safety. The Security Bureau reminded Hong Kong residents going to Thailand that they should keep themselves abreast of the latest developments and pay attention to personal safety, and said the government would continue to closely monitor the situation. [102] [103]
  •   India - New Delhi issued a statement urging all Indian citizens in Thailand to contact the embassy in Bangkok. The foreign ministry condemns any act that hinders democracy and also hopes that there will be a smooth transition of power from the military to the representatives of the last election, which itself is mired in controversy.
  •   Indonesia - The Indonesian government, through its foreign ministry spokesman Desra Percaya, states that Indonesia "expects that the principles of democracy ... would be further upheld, ... [and] further hopes that the political crisis in Thailand could be resolved amicably and democratically for the greater interest of the people of Thailand." [104][105]
  •   Japan - Japan's Foreign Minister said the military coup in Thailand was regrettable and urged efforts to quickly restore democracy.[106]
  • Template:Country data flagcountry - a Foreign Ministry spokesman said, "We hope Thailand will restore peace according to legal procedures."[90]
  • Template:Country data flagcountry - Lao Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Yong Chantalangsy, has said "These are interior affairs of Thailand. No comment, we are following the situation very closely." No border points have been closed between the two countries. "Everything is normal and flights are operating as usual," the Yong Chantalangsy said.[6]
  • Template:Country data flagcountry - Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi of Malaysia expressed shock over the coup. He said he hoped the country would soon be ruled by a democratically elected government.[107]
  • Template:Country data flagcountry - a Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said, "We hope for calm and avoidance of violence." and further added "We want to see political stability in Thailand which is a very important member of ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) and has made important contributions to ASEAN's development," [108]
  •   Philippines - President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and several lawmakers have said that they are concerned about the coup in Thailand. In addition, they are confident in the loyalty of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. President Arroyo is monitoring the situation from the UN headquarters in New York.[109] Although the government has not issued an official statement, Senator Richard Gordon said that he calls for President Arroyo to lash at Sonthi Boonyaratglin for launching the coup.[110]
  •   Singapore - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "Singapore hopes all parties involved will work towards a positive outcome." The ministry "hopes the situation there will return to normal as soon as possible."[111] Foreign Minister George Yeo has expressed his shock and deep concern over the recent coup in Thailand. He said that Singapore called on all parties involved to seek reconciliation and restore constitutional Government as soon as possible. [112]
  •   Republic of China (Taiwan) - The Republic of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs advised recent travellers to Thailand to be alert due to safety concerns.[113]

Europe

  •   Europe - A spokesman for the President of the European Council and Prime Minister of Finland, Matti Vanhanen, noted his "grave concern" and added, "It is highly regrettable that democratic institutions seem to have been taken over by military force. Prime Minister Vanhanen emphasises the need to revert to democratic order without delay."[114]
  •   Netherlands - Herman van Gelderen, spokesman for the Dutch Foreign Minister, said the minister was "very worried" but could not comment further for want of information.[115]
  •   Norway - Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stated, “The armed forces must step down to allow the return of the democratically elected government. I hope the situation will be resolved peacefully, and that the country returns to democratic order as soon as possible.” [116]
  •   Sweden - Minister for Foreign Affairs and former President of the United Nations General Assembly Jan Eliasson stated, "I am very concerned about the information from Bangkok tonight that a military coup d'état has taken place. The situation is not yet clear, but it is imperative that political differences are resolved within the framework of the constitution, peacefully and in accordance with democratic principles and with respect for human rights. We are naturally following developments in Bangkok very closely".[117]
  •   Denmark - Foreign minister Per Stig Møller denounced the coup, calling it "banana republic-like, that the military seizes power while the PM is out of the country. But it's not over yet, there's no conclusion yet. Thaksin has a lot of support outside Bangkok. So we'll have to see what happens when he returns home. I just hope it does not end in violence. I hope that democracy will be re-established in Thailand." [118]
  •   United Kingdom - Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett stated, "We are never happy about military attempts to overthrow a government, if that is what is happening. But we very much hope there will be peace and the situation will be resolved and that some peaceful way out of the problem will be determined." [90] A Foreign Office spokeswoman later added, "There are elections scheduled for October and November and we are actively trying to find out whether those elections will go ahead or not. Obviously, we believe they should."[18]
  • A group of Thai student called "Oxford Initiative" (OI) was in the process of issuing a statement after a meeting on Thursday to express disagreement with the coup. A leading member of the group speaking on condition of anonymity said he regretted that the Thai military had chosen to achieve political ends through non-democratic means. He added that views of OI members are not necessarily representative of the entire community of Thai students in Oxford who are more or less divided over the current coup[119].
  •   Russia - The Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement, "We hope that a way out of the current situation will be found with a rapid return to the path of constitutional rule and by the reinforcement of the democratic process with the participation of all political forces."[120] Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also noted that his "opinion is that everybody should be governed by the need to strengthen the constitutional regime in the country." [121]
  •   Ireland - The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs stated that it was monitoring the situation and has asked Irish people there to exercise utmost caution. [122]

Oceania

  •   Australia - Foreign Minister of Australia Alexander Downer stated, "We want to see a return to democratic rule. It’s of grave concern for us that the government has been overthrown in this way. There was an expectation in Thailand that there would be an election towards the end of this year and it is of concern to us that the military appear to have simply seized power." The Australian Labor Party's foreign affairs spokesman, Kevin Rudd, noted that the coup "needs to be condemned and condemned unequivocally," adding that "The way to resolve these crises is through democratic and constitutional means. A coup d'etat is a direct assault on democracy itself. The region cannot stand idly by and leave such actions uncondemned."[123]
  •   New Zealand - New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark condemned the coup, saying that New Zealand "condemns any process which seeks to overturn a government by unconstitutional and undemocratic means." She added that "New Zealand urges all political and military players to resolve their differences peacefully and to act in accordance with Thailand's constitution and democratic principles," and that she was "deeply disturbed" by reports from Thailand.

International

  • Template:Country data flagcountry - United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan told CNN, "I don't have the details but this is not a practice to be encouraged." He also said, "As the African Union, for example, has indicated, they do not support those who come to power through the barrel of a gun," and, "Over the past decade or so, they have established a solid democracy and institutions under the leadership of the King. I'm sure they will be able to restore that institution and go back to a democratic system as soon as possible."[124]
  • International Monetary Fund - IMF Managing Director Rodrigo Rato stated at the IMF's annual meeting in Singapore that, "We are following developments very closely and look forward for the evolution and benefit of democracy and stability in the country."[125]

Effects in the financial markets

Emerging market stocks, bonds and currencies all fell on Tuesday, 19 September, after news came out about the apparent coup in Thailand. The baht declined by more than 1.3% against the US dollar on news of the coup, its largest daily decline against the US dollar since October 2003.[126] During the US trading session on Tuesday Thai Fund Inc. (NYSETTF) fell by 3.8% after tumbling as much as 7.1% earlier, giving an indication how Thailand's stock market will react if and when it opens on Thursday morning. According to Bloomberg, military leaders ordered the stock exchange, banks and government departments closed on 20 September.[127]

The SET Index fell 29.64 points, or 4.2 % to 702.63 in the first minutes of trading Thursday 21 September 2006[128] but quickly bounced back, suggesting the coup would do no greater damage. The SET Index dropped 9.99 points, or 1.4 percent, to 692.57 at the 04.30 pm. close in Bangkok. After the previous coup, in February 1991, the SET Index tumbled 7.3% on the first day of trading before rallying 24% in the next two months.[129]

Credit ratings

Thailand's bond ratings are currently unchanged, but credit rating agencies have announced that they may downgrade them depending on future developments.

Standard & Poor's Ratings Services said that it would place its 'BBB+' long-term foreign, 'A' long-term local, 'A2' short-term foreign, and 'A1' short-term local currency sovereign credit ratings for Thailand on CreditWatch, which reflected the possibility of sustained deterioration in national credit worthiness. A S&P analyst noted that "A fairly rapid return to civilian rule in accordance with the country's constitution and renewed commitment to macroeconomic stability and needed reform likely would lead to the affirmation of existing ratings."

Fitch Ratings put its sovereign credit ratings for Thailand on Rating Watch Negative, but noted that the coup might have a positive effect if it leads to a resolution of the country's long running political crisis. [130]

Moody's Investors Service has reaffirmed Thailand's ratings and stable outlook two days after a military coup, saying the country's fundamentals were strong enough to weather the instability. "The country's financial and external payments positions should be strong enough to withstand temporary disturbances caused by Tuesday's military coup," Moody's said. None of Moody's ratings or guidelines for Thailand were changed, including the Baa1 foreign and local currency ratings of the government, the A3 foreign currency ceiling for bonds, and the Baa1 foreign currency ceiling for bank deposits. [131]

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