Special report: Army coup in Thailand

Thailand's new interim Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont answers questions from journalists during his first press conference as PM in Bangkok, Oct. 1, 2006.(Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery >>>

    BANGKOK, Oct. 14 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's interim Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont said Saturday he had no objection to his predecessor Thaksin Shinawatra returning to Thailand in due course, pending discussions with all concerned parties, the Thai News Agency (TNA) said.

    Speaking to journalists in Bangkok on his return from a one-day official visit to neighboring Laos, the former Army chief and privy counselor said he had a telephone conversation with deposed prime minister Thaksin recently regarding many issues -- including his possible return to Thailand.

    "As a Thai citizen, Mr. Thaksin has the right to return to Thailand but the timing will have to be discussed among all parties concerned," Surayud said, while giving few details about his contact with his predecessor, who is now staying in London in exile after being toppled by the Sept. 19 military coup.

    Thai military leaders led by General Sonthi Boonyaratkalin seized power claiming that the Thaksin government was corrupt to the core and had abused power during its five years in office.

    The 12-member Assets Examination Committee recently set up by the military council is empowered to investigate any projects or acts by members of the Thaksin government and others who are suspected of irregularities.

    The investigation is now underway to gather evidence. The committee can freeze assets of the politicians if there is sufficient evidence to prove that they are involved in corruption, the TNA report said. Enditem

Thai King endorses National Legislative Assembly

    BANGKOK, Oct. 12 (Xinhua) -- The King of Thailand Thursday morning issued a royal command to appoint the 242-member National Legislative Assembly, a new body which will act as the country's parliament, local media reported.

Thai new cabinet list submitted for royal approval

    BANGKOK, Oct. 8 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's interim Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont has completed the list of his first cabinet and submitted it for royal endorsement, a spokesman said Sunday.

Thaksin resigns as Thai Rak Thai leader

    BANGKOK, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has sent his hand-written letter from London to state his wish to resign as Thai Rak Thai Party leader, Thai TV channel 7 reported Tuesday.