Protesters, police urged to refrain from use of violence

They said the clashes should not be used as a pretext to declare martial law or a state of emergency, warning that Thailand's reputation would suffer further.

"I'm afraid that [the junta] may declare martial law or a state of emergency, citing the violence," well-known human rights lawyer Somchai Homlaor said, adding such measures should only be used in times of war or extreme anarchy.

"If they do it, people will see the military as opportunists and it will be negative in the eyes of the world community," Somchai warned.

"Though some police officers may have been injured, the situation should be regarded as under control."

Somsri Hananantasuk, a key member of the Campaign Committee on Human Rights, agreed. "I don't see any need [for martial law] as the trouble didn't cover many spots," she said.

Labour activist Sakdina Chatrakul na Ayudhya was also against martial law being declared, saying it was best to seek peaceful solutions through dialogue.

"A declaration of martial will worsen the standing of Thailand," he said.

All three activists agreed that everyone should adhere to the principle of non-violence and that the police must respect citizens' rights to peaceful assembly.

"The right to peaceful assembly is a basic right under a democratic system - a right that has been recognised by all Thai constitutions, as long as it's a peaceful and unarmed protest," said Somchai, adding the rocks and sticks some protesters picked up during the clashes could not be considered weapons and should not put all of the protesters, many of whom were supporters of ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra, in the position of being considered armed.

Somsri was concerned about protesters inciting violence. Some people were inclined to violence, so it was up to the protest leaders to ensure demonstrations against the junta and Privy Council President Prem Tinsulanonda remained peaceful.

The activists said the arrest of eight protest leaders without clear charges and evidence would spur further conflict and violence.

Meanwhile, junta-appointed charter drafter Chuchai Suphawongse said the protesters might have intended to incite violence and warned that if this were true, it would diminish their credibility.

The Union for Civil Liberty issued a statement urging an investigation by a non-partisan committee with legal action being taken against every culprit whether police or protester. The investigation outcome should be made public.

Pravit Rojanaphruk

The Nation