Senate agrees to mediate peace talks

In a press conference, held jointly with Senate Speaker Prasopsuk Boondet, director of King Prajadhipok Institute's Centre for Peace and Governance, Wanchai Wattanasap, confirmed that the Senate had agreed to sit in on talks with anti-government groups. He added that the next time a peaceful resolution was needed for the country, he would invite senators to join in as well.

Meanwhile, the Senate speaker said he would announce the decision through the Parliament radio and on television.

"The one who walks up and asks to end conflicts is not a coward. This is a brave path, though society may see it as that of a loser," Wanchai said. "Our movement is not to negotiate leniency for wrongdoers, stop the justice system's processes or to make unreasonable compromises. Nobody wants to see violence. Anything is better than throwing bombs or pointing fingers at each other."

Prasopsuk said he personally disagreed with charter amendments that would pave the way for legislation that gives amnesty to banned politicians as that could lead to more conflicts. He said other government figures also agreed that the process should be suspended.

However, Prasopsuk said he was sure peace talks would held end the current conflicts.

Wanchai added that Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat had also agreed to join the talks, though the director said the PM should have paid heed to public opinions on the charter amendment.