Thai military's expanded policing powers worries Canada
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Canada has voiced its concern about the National Council for Peace and Order's order which grants expanded policing powers to the Thai military.
In a statement released by the Embassy of Canada, it said the implementation of the Order No. 13/2016 threatens to undermine the rule of law and due process in Thailand while increasing the potential for human rights abuses.
It also reiterates "significant concerns" regarding the military government's restrictions on basic civil and political rights, including the Thai government's stated intention to expand its use of attitude adjustment as a means to intimidate political opponents and activists.
It also promises to closely follow developments regarding the referendum law and urges Thai authorities to ensure Thai citizens are able to engage in a free and inclusive debate regarding the merits of the draft constitution.
"Canada calls on Thailand to respect its international human rights obligations, including those related to freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and the rule of law," it said.
