Social unity is important to avoid another coup: First Army Region commander

LtGeneral Prayuth Janocha, commander of the First Army Region, insisted that it was improper for government detractors to call for a military coup as a way to end political crises.

However, he also warned that with severe conflict, lack of unity and lack of loyalty to the monarchy, Thailand might once again reach a point where a coup was inevitable.

"If it's going to happen, it will happen. It depends on events at the time. What has to be considered is how to prevent it from happening," Prayuth said.

"Our country needs unity, peace and loyalty to the monarchy. The country needs to advance a long way. We should not step back or stand still due to trivial matters," he added.

The general yesterday dismissed as groundless speculation that certain Army units were exercising secretly in preparation for staging another coup. He said some drills were conducted at night, but they were not aimed at preparing to bring down the government.

He said the Army commanderinchief had explained the matter to the prime minister.

Prayuth also stressed the importance of the monarchy, saying the institution had from ancient times been vital to the Kingdom's sovereignty and unity. He said it was the military's duty to protect the monarchy's honour, adding that he had learned the police were taking action against moves that were in contempt of the monarchy.

Meanwhile, former armed forces supreme commander General Chaisit Shinawatra yesterday said that feuding political groups should not involve the monarchy in their conflict.

"The monarchy must be retained above politics. Whoever cites the monarchy for their political gains has no good intentions towards the country," he said.

Chaisit, a cousin of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, also dismissed the possibility of another military coup against the current government. "I don't think most people will agree to it. And the soldiers who try to do that will be put in jail."

PANYA THIEWSANGWAN

THE NATION