BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed the recent unrest in Thailand’s southern border provinces on May 6. She confirmed that the government has already issued strict orders to security forces to ensure public safety, while also emphasizing the importance of dialogue and understanding with the local population. The PM underscored that the government does not support any form of violence and urged the public and media not to divide people based on ethnicity or religion, stating, “Everyone is human, with families – we must not be divided.”
Prime Minister Paetongtarn said she had coordinated with Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai to deploy both military and police forces in the region, while also initiating community engagement efforts to better understand local concerns and offer support. The dual approach—security and communication—is key to reducing tensions, she said.
When asked about other negotiation channels, the PM confirmed that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has maintained regular contact with Malaysian Prime Minister and current ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim, noting that the matter is of high importance. She said that while multiple channels exist, no formal movement has yet been made, but the government remains open to dialogue.
In response to rising concerns among the public, especially comparisons to the surge in violence 20 years ago, Paetongtarn assured that security forces have established checkpoints and are operating proactively. She insisted that anyone who breaks the law must be prosecuted, highlighting that public confidence cannot be restored if perpetrators are not held accountable. She added that the BRN’s recent statement condemning civilian attacks is being taken seriously, and that efforts to bring those responsible to justice are well underway.
