Thailand Political Situation - TCEB Update 2 April 2015 at 10.00 hrs. (GMT+7)

Thailand Ends Martial Law

Prime Minister promises to use new powers responsibly

Thailand's Prime Minister, Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha, yesterday announced the lifting of martial law, 10 months after its declaration in May 2014. The announcement was made late on Wednesday evening, following Gen. Prayuth’s audience with His Majesty the King, who gave consent to the move on the grounds that it was no longer necessary.

In his televised statement, Prime Minister Prayuth said it will be replaced by a new security order under Article 44 of the Provisional Charter. Article 44 allows the Prime Minister broader powers to issue executive orders to deal with threats to national security or the monarchy.

Martial law was rarely evident in the streets of Bangkok, with few soldiers visible and life continuing as normal. TCEB announcement comes as particularly good news for Thailand’s business event industry, which is vital to Thailand's economy.

The government has promised to restore democracy following reforms; until then, former army chief Prayuth has responded to critics of Article 44 by promising to exercise his new sweeping powers responsibly, insisting that they will only be used to urgently solve national problems without violating human rights.

Thailand is at the forefront of the business events industry, with our ‘Thailand CONNECT the World’ campaign, we offer a diversity of destinations enriched by efficient infrastructure and transport links, and five designated MICE Cities that offer a brilliant blend of world-class facilities, unrivalled business opportunities, and high quality MICE professionals & standards.

TCEB will keep you updated. Should you require any further information and assistance, please call TCEB office: +66 (0) 2694 6000, TCEB call center at 1105 (within Thailand only), visit www.tceb.or.th or contact info@tceb.or.th.

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