BANGKOK, May 17: Thai authorities on Thursday began shutting down three Bangkok radio stations after deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra went on air to urge a swift return to democracy.
Mr Shinawatra, who has lived in exile in London since a coup last September, telephoned the three anti-junta community radio stations, which broadcast his calls for early elections live.
He has previously only spoken to international media and the Thai junta has threatened to close down local outlets that report his statements.
“I was shocked and speechless when I realised that the person on the other line was him,” said Chupong Theethuan of ‘Confidante’ community radio station.
“He urged quick elections and said the government does not have to worry about him as he will not travel near this region again,” he added.
The prime minister’s office confirmed on Thursday afternoon that it had moved to shut down Confidante Radio, Saturday Voice Against Dictatorship and Taxi Driver Community Radio, saying they were operating illegally and jeopardising national security.
Thailand’s army-installed Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont said he was not surprised by Mr Shinawatra’s media blitz, but argued that his deposed predecessor was using the radio shows in a bid to gain public sympathy.
“I think Thaksin wants sympathy from his supporters,” the prime minister told a television station. “I have nothing to say to Thaksin.”
Two community radio listeners had earlier called AFP and reported that the three stations had gone off air.
Speaking live on Saturday Voice Against Dictatorship, Mr Shinawatra said he was worried that some of his schemes for the rural poor had been scrapped by the military-installed government.
He told Confidante Radio he was concerned the government had scaled down scholarships for students and urged ‘children who are suffering’ to contact his foundation.
He told Saturday Voice that he would return to Thailand, but said he did not want to go back home when it might cause a confrontation.—AFP
