"This is a democratic decision," acting chairman Nipathai Sassananan said.

He spoke as his group thanked the government for approving Bt77 million in assistance to families of those killed in the 1973 uprising, which toppled decades of military rule.

The committee also represents many who were maimed in the struggle 33 years ago. But its statement yesterday stunned many people.

Activists had been expecting it to join the protest against Thaksin, who has been widely accused of trampling on the Constitution and ruling like a dictator.

Pro-democracy activists have been calling for the PM to quit and for the charter to be amended. Their campaign flared after Thaksin's family struck a Bt73-billion deal in late January to sell its stake in Shin Corp to Singapore's Temasek Holdings.

Nipathai noted his committee had received many requests to join the anti-Thaksin movement. "However, we have come to our own decision," he said.

"We can't ignore the fact that this government is a result of three major battles for democracy - the October 14, 1973 rally, October 6, 1976 uprising and Black May [in 1992].

"This government is a result of 1997 Constitution, which we've called People's Constitution," he said.

Nipathai urged the opposition Democrat, Chat Thai and Mahachon parties to participate in the election.

"We are not [doing this] for the money," he said. The committee was trying to protect the charter, which was the result of "the sacrifice of so many lives".

The committee was ready to help the Thai Rak Thai Party, he added.

Committee member Lamiad Boonmak said the Thaksin-led government was the first to address the grievances of the relatives of the October 14 heroes.

"I would like to thank the government. I want the premier [Thaksin] to fight on and remain brave through all obstacles," Lamiad said. "Let him provide solace to us and those in difficult situations," she added.

Thaksin thanked the committee for its support. "I am fighting for the democracy your relatives sacrificed for. I will protect the democracy with my life," he said.

Thaksin said he would ensure the speedy disbursement of financial assistance and that the government was grateful to the heroes.

Some living heroes from the October 14 uprising, including Campaign for Popular Democracy secretary-general Suriyasai Katasila and Thammasat University lecturer Thirayuth Boonmee, are leading the movement to oust Thaksin.

Hassaya Chartmontri,

Piyanart Srivalo

The Nation