Conflict resolution experts calls on govt to rethink Amnesty bill
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A conflict resolution expert warned on Wednesday that the blanket amnesty bill could lead to a new round of violent clashes and urged the ruling Pheu Thai party not to involve leaders from both sides of the conflict from benefiting from the amnesty bill.
Eakpant Pindavanija, a lecturer at Mahidol University’s Institute of Human Rights and Peace Studies said he’s deeply concerns that a new round of violent clashes could occur as many groups, including some red shirts, are geared up to oppose the bill and urged the Pheu Thai party to rethink before it’s too late.
“I don’t agree with the [blanket] amnesty bill,” he said, adding that only ordinary protesters and rank-and-file security officers and soldiers who acted on orders should be granted amnesty but not leaders in both camps.
“Those who should benefit from the amnesty should not have vested interests in the conflict,” Eakapant told The Nation. “The objective of an amnesty bill should be to assist these small people.”
