Senators table ways out of crisis

They suggested that Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej either act in a speedy manner to negotiate a settlement with the People¡¦s Alliance for Democracy in order to work out a resolution as soon as possible, or, if negotiations failed to materialise, he should quickly dissolve the House to pave the way for a snap election.

Once the prime minister opts for either of these choices, street protests and labour strikes must stop immediately in order to create an atmosphere conducive for the restoration of normal conditions and a fair vote, the senators said.

Senator Lertrat Ratanawanich called for prompt action before the situation degenerated beyond a state from which it could be salvaged.

Lertrat said that since the turmoil erupted, about 100 casualties, including a score of deaths, had been reported in the politically motivated violence.

He said the senators had no ulterior motive in making their proposal, but wanted to see a restoration of peace for the country to move forward.