Another step towards dictatorship

Following a series of bombings and other violence in Yala a few days ago, Thaksin has brought in new legislation which would allow him to declare a state of emergency and exercise the ability to censor the press, arrest people without charges, and intercept phone conversations.

The press, even the usually docile and pro-TRT elements, are upset, as is the opposition and human rights groups. Thaksin has issued assurances that he would not abuse the powers given him by the new law. Yeah - right. Declaration of the state of emergency would require only cabinet-level approval.