Private sector demands peaceful solutions
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Seven business organisations demands all parties to resolve their conflicts peacefully, in the bid to contain damage to the society and the economy.
"The government and protesters should quickly find a peaceful solution for our country. We hope that there would be no more violence which would bring deep sorrow to all Thais," said Isara Vongkusolkit, chairman of Thai Chamber of Commerce/Board of Trade.
Convening today are the seven organisations which cover all parts of the economy - the Board of Trade, the Federation of Thai Industries, the Thai Bankers Association, the Tourism Council of Thailand, the Federation of Capital Market Organisations, the Stock Exchange of Thailand and the Listed Companies Association.
In their statement, they said that the conflicts have resulted in a loss of lives and the economy and this could intensify. They jointly demanded that the conflicts be solved through a negotiation process and no party should resort to violence or any illegal or undemocratic action.
The private sector also showed supports to all parties which initiate the negotiation process. It vowed to take part in the process for the sake of the nation to find a lawful and righteous solution, in cooperation with other parties like educational institutes, the media and all respectable individuals.
"Expressing political opinions is a lawful right. However, the private sector opposes the move to use violent actions in solving national problems. Conditional political demands will only lead to losses," it said.
"All parties should realise the consequences of the damage and division to the nation, the economy, society and families, as well as to Thailand's image in the international community. Should this situation be prolonged, Thailand could be declared a "failed state" or face anarchy."
Isara noted that a democratic solution would be the only way to restore peace. All parties should sit down and talk and clear all conflicts, before calling an election. Only this would ensure that the current political condition would not return after election.
