Bangkok: Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, MP for the party list and deputy leader of the Prachachon Party, has called on the public to remain calm and resist calls for a coup amidst ongoing tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. He emphasized the importance of resolving international disputes through legitimacy and peaceful negotiation.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wiroj addressed the situation on the Thai-Cambodian border, noting that while it appears to be improving, it is too soon to declare it resolved. He acknowledged that incentive measures have been effective in bringing Cambodia back to the negotiating table. Mr. Wiroj questioned Cambodia's legitimacy in seeking to bring the matter to the International Court of Justice, citing Cambodia's violation of the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU 43).
Mr. Wiroj insisted that Thailand is not the party that violated the agreement and called for Cambodia to respect MOU 43. He highlighted the need for discussions that are more beneficial to the people of both countries to resolve border disputes, emphasizing that Thailand has not made any additional demands beyond the original MOU.
Touching on domestic and international politics, Mr. Wiroj acknowledged the potential involvement of superpowers in the issue. He urged caution in expressing opinions and stressed the importance of linking domestic, international, and geopolitical considerations.
He further advised the government to prepare long-term measures, potentially including budget frameworks, to support affected individuals and entrepreneurs. He emphasized that the government must maintain pressure on Cambodia to negotiate under the MOU 2000 framework.
Addressing the rising calls on social media for a coup, Mr. Wiroj warned against undermining Thailand's democracy and legitimacy on the world stage. He insisted that a government formed through a coup would lack international acceptance and legitimacy, aligning with the interests of Cambodian leadership who seek to diminish Thailand's standing.
Mr. Wiroj reiterated the importance of adhering to MOU 43, arguing that Thailand has no new demands and remains committed to agreements made voluntarily with Cambodia. He called for clear communication from the Thai government to emphasize this stance to both domestic and international audiences.
In response to Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Vejjayachai's diplomatic gestures towards Cambodia, Mr. Wiroj noted that while maintaining diplomatic etiquette is necessary, the focus should be on implementing concrete measures to bring Cambodia to the negotiating table. He urged Thai society to focus on achieving objectives efficiently, guided by strategic and long-term planning.