National reform undertaken by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) must not lead to an amnesty for political offenders, says Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva.
The NCPO's move to set up "reconciliation for reform centres" to end colour-coded divisions and foster unity among people must not be used to come to compromises or reach bargains, Mr Abhisit said Thursday.
He said previous reconciliation bids were merely disguised attempts to issue an amnesty to political offenders.
The NCPO must ensure all sides of the conflict comply with the law and take responsibility, accept the consequences of their actions and be willing to face legal proceedings.
Mr Abhisit said tackling corruption must also be the NCPO's priority and part of the reform process, adding that the Democrat Party has come up with proposals to address graft problems.
He noted the NCPO did not mention corruption in its first announcement after last Thursday's coup.
Corruption was a serious problem even before the political crisis took place, he said.
The NCPO should also create a better political system and change the behaviour of politicians and their parties, Mr Abhisit said. He also said the NCPO should consider easing restrictions as soon as the political violence is under control.
A source in the red-shirt United for Democracy against Dictatorship said the UDD's stance has been to push for an amnesty for protesters, except protest leaders.
The source said it would be impossible to end colour-coded political ideologies completely. People of different political views must have a place in society and it is important they are treated equally and fairly under the law, he said.
Former Senate speaker Surachai Liangboonlertchai said yesterday it is up to the NCPO to decide on the make-up of national legislative and reform assemblies.