PAD leaders call for power seizure

The People's Alliance for Democracy on Friday organised a public talk to mark the Chinese New Year and its four leaders vowed to resume the struggle against former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

PAD leader Sondhi Limthongkul, speaking via a telephone call from China, said the military should stage a coup in cooperation with the people in order to wrestle a complete control of the country from Thaksin.

"If the PAD is to make a move once again, this time will not just confine to street protesting but a complete seizure of power," he said, pledging a make-or break struggle.

Sondhi said he feared for the future of the monarchy if the Thaksin camp had its way.

He took part in the talk while undergoing acupuncture treatment in China.

PAD co-leader Bhipop Thongchai said the PAD-led movement did not wane in the past six year but stood ready to step out and fight against the domination of rogue capitalists over the political system.

Bhipop argued that the country's ethical standard was being challenged in the face of attempts by rogue capitalists to plunder the country.

"The Thaksin regime is not getting stronger as evidenced by its popular support dropping from 19 million votes under Thai Rak Thai banner to 15 million votes under Pheu Thai banner," he said.

He said the PAD was ready to lead the people to victory in safeguarding the country.

Another PAD leader Somkiat Pongpaiboon said he expected a final showdown with the Thaksin regime. He claimed about the regime was contracting some 5,000 Cambodian and Vietnamese mercenaries to topple the monarchy in order to inaugurate a republic.

The PAD will pour into the streets at the first sign of changing charter provisions pertaining the monarchy and granting amnesty for Thaksin, he said.

PAD's Chamlong Srimuang said the PAD-led protests for 384 days and nights were proof of the invincibility of the people's power.

Chamlong vowed to flex the PAD's power if the situation calls for.