Privy Council president and elder statesman Prem Tinsulanonda has urged Thai people to accommodate different ideas and to remain united.
The nation, religion and the monarchy are the main institutions which have been upheld by Thais since ancient times, Gen Prem said in a keynote address at the opening of a seminar held by the National Economic and Social Advisory Council yesterday.
Prem: ‘Accommodate different ideas’
He said the three institutions have safeguarded the country's peace and sovereignty and held the Thai people together.
The privy council president expressed concern over the ongoing political conflict and urged people to accept different ways of thinking. He did not believe differences in opinion should pose an obstacle to national unity.
"Today, our country is clearly divided and we all know what the root cause is. This has affected the unity of the people in the nation and curbed the country's progress," Gen Prem said.
"I personally believe differing opinions will not obstruct the unity of Thai people if the people aim for peace and security which are the most important things for the country."
Gen Prem said he supported open discussions and seminars on the three institutions which should come up with concrete and useful proposals.
But he said whether such seminars will be of any benefit depends on the topics chosen, and the intentions and sincerity of those involved in the seminars.
Gen Prem stressed that careful consideration must be given to the use of the three institutions to promote national security, and it was necessary to ensure that everyone understands how this would benefit the nation.
Asked by a reporter if he would like to see Thai people become united again, he responded: "You already know the answer".
When asked if he wanted Thailand to be a land of dhamma and prosperity, he said this would be his greatest wish.
As is customary, Gen Prem plans to offer New Year blessings to armed forces leaders at his Si Sao Thewes residence on Thursday.