Sondhi Group Opposes 2001 Thaksin Agreement with Cambodia
PUBLISHED: 24 Dec 2024 at 16:42
UPDATED: 24 Dec 2024 at 18:36
Former protest leader Sondhi Limthongkul and his supporters are organizing potential demonstrations against the government due to its inaction on their call to revoke a 2001 memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Cambodia, which they claim jeopardizes Thailand’s territorial integrity and marine resources in the Gulf of Thailand.
The deadline for government action coincided with their visit to the Government House complaints centre on Tuesday, marking the end of a 15-day ultimatum for the revocation of the controversial agreement signed during Thaksin Shinawatra’s administration.
The MoU involves shared resource development between Thailand and Cambodia, raising concerns among Sondhi’s group about its implications for Thailand’s marine territorial rights.
Sondhi expressed frustration that the government had yet to address their grievances, highlighting their demand for the Constitutional Court to determine the MoU’s constitutionality and for the organization of public forums to broaden citizen discourse on the matter.
He warned that continued government inaction could harm national interests and voiced intentions to safeguard Thai sovereignty through decisive action.
Parnthep Pourpongpan, a supporter of Sondhi, criticized Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for failing to engage in promised discussions and rejecting the call for public forums, suggesting that the opposition’s concerns were being dismissed.
Plans are underway for rallies at key government locations, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the parliament, to compel the administration towards a constructive response.
Government Responds
In response to the situation, Prime Minister Paetongtarn assured that the government is not neglecting the concerns surrounding the 2001 agreement. She stated that efforts are ongoing to gather insights from various stakeholders.
When questioned about the refusal to hold public forums, she cited sensitive information related to negotiations with Cambodia as a reason for not disclosing details at this time, urging the public to remain patient and assured that their opinions are being considered.
She emphasized ongoing consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant bodies, acknowledging the careful handling needed due to the delicate nature of the situation.
