Though the latest turmoils in Thailand have calmed down, some people state that it might only be a question of time, when the next riots will take place. The Civil War in Thailand has its roots in charges that the recent Parliament elections were not legitimate and protesters, called the Red Shirts, were demanding new elections. Their charge is that the current government is highly representative of the richer segments of Bangkok society and leave the poor in cities and rural areas without representation.

Protests

Protests against the current government began to take a toll as over 80 people were killed in the streets and the army had to be brought in to attempt to restore order. The Prime Minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, managed to stay clear of a vote of no-confidence brought against him by opponents in the government. He refuses to set up new elections until peace has been restored and the protests are brought under control. The protesters support the Puea Thai Party, which has attempted to thwart the Army’s use of force in stopping the protests in the capital.

Future

As one of the largest countries in Southeast Asia, there is much doubt that the government will be able to solve its own problems. The gulf that is growing between the people and the government may continue whether or not this current protest movement is stopped. To date, over 1,500 people have been injured in the course of the protests and the unrest continues to grow. Accusations continue to fly back and forth between the protesters and the government. The protesters claim that the government army has used unnecessary force in dealing with protesters along with setting up their leaders to be arrested illegally. The government claims the faction of the protesters are using terrorism.