Prime Minister Paetongtarn Expresses Regret as Justice Looms Beyond Reach
PUBLISHED: 24 Oct 2024 at 20:48
In a poignant statement delivered on Thursday, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra publicly apologized for the tragic deaths of 78 protesters during a military operation two decades ago, just hours before the statute of limitations is set to expire on the case, which has seen no convictions of state officials.
The Tak Bai incident in Narathiwat province in 2004, which led to the deaths of 85 individuals, became a significant point of interest amid the ongoing separatist insurgency that has claimed over 7,600 lives since then.
“I am deeply saddened for what happened and apologize on behalf of the government,” said Paetongtarn, vowing to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
This massacre occurred during her father’s administration; while he offered an apology two years ago, he did not accept accountability. The global community condemned the brutal nature of the event, where 78 individuals suffocated while crammed into army trucks during transport.
These victims were part of a larger group arrested during a demonstration that escalated after police fired upon the crowd, resulting in seven fatalities on that day.
Despite recent legal efforts, including lawsuits from victims’ families against high-ranking officials, these cases have stalled. With the statute of limitations set to expire at midnight on Friday, hopes for justice are dwindling.
The Narathiwat court had previously accepted a lawsuit against seven senior officials, including a retired general, but attendance at hearings has been lacking. Another case involving additional personnel has shown little advancement as well.
Paetongtarn emphasized the importance of keeping politics out of the tragedy, noting that extending the statute of limitations would contravene constitutional guidelines.
Thai authorities have confirmed they are actively pursuing the 14 identified suspects in the case, with Interpol red notices issued for their apprehension.
“Although the case is expiring, history and memories do not,” said Ratsada Manooratsada, representing the victims’ families. “The families will never forget because the perpetrators were not brought to justice.”
Among the names surfaced in these cases is Gen Pisal Wattanawongkiri, the former commander overseeing the region during the incident, who has recently resigned from his political role amid ongoing scrutiny.
The legal focus includes both the high-ranking officials responsible for the orders that led to the tragedy, as well as the army personnel involved in the transport of the detained individuals.
