Yingluck appeals for troop support during fresh poll

Yingluck appeals for troop support during fresh poll

Caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra will meet armed forces leaders today to discuss the military's role in tightening security for a new poll.

Though the date for a fresh general election has not been finalised, the premier is expected to touch on the issue, along with problems arising from the current political situation, during talks ahead of a Defence Council meeting later today, a Defence Ministry source said.

The Pheu Thai Party on Tuesday agreed with an Election Commission (EC) proposal to stage fresh polls on July 20, though the election regulator is yet to formally decide on a date.

Anti-government protesters disrupted the Feb 2 election — which was also boycotted by the Democrat Party — leading to the eventual nullification of the poll results by the Constitutional Court late last month.

The ministry source said Ms Yingluck, who doubles as caretaker defence minister, is expected to talk with the military leaders on plans to deploy soldiers to support the EC to ensure there are no disruptions during polling.

Some government supporters earlier proposed that balloting booths be set up in military camps to avoid disruptions by protesters.

Other issues expected to be raised during Ms Yingluck's talks with the military top brass include the insurgency in the far South.

The premier will discuss security preparations for the 10th anniversary of the Krue Sue Mosque killings in Pattani on April 28, amid fears insurgents may stir up violence to mark the occasion, the source said.

Security forces, led by Gen Panlop Pinmanee, stormed the mosque in 2004 amid claims that Muslims hiding there were insurgents responsible for attacks on government officials.

Up to 32 people were shot dead, prompting intense criticism that the soldiers used unreasonable force.

Ms Yingluck is also expected to discuss the peace talks with the Barisan Revolusi Nasional separatist group, which have stalled since political unrest broke out.

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