UN calls for an independent probe into political violence

BANGKOK, 31 May 2010 (NNT) – United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay on Monday calls on the Thai government for an independent probe into the recent political violence.

UN has expressed concerns after Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva was accused of human right abuses by ordering troops to disperse the marathon rally of the anti-government United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD). The incidence resulted in 88 fatalities.

Mrs Pillay urges the government to bring human rights violators for prosecution. However, she admittedly stated that the Thai government had shown its commitment to end the political turmoil and attempted to restore order to the Kingdom, though the government’s operations must be in line with international standards on the use of security forces and detention methods.

Speaking at an intensifying parliamentary no-confidence debate on Monday, Mr Abhisit stated the troops were defending themselves against mysterious armed groups. The government had only planned to cordon off the rally site in order to pressure the UDD leaders to terminate the rally.