Army Chief Calls on Thai Leader to Quit

This week in the International Herald Tribune, there was an article discussing how Thailand's army chief, General Anupong Paochinda asked Thailand's Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat to step down. Tensions remained high in Bangkok as protesters continued to barricade the Prime Minister's office forcing business to be conducted in  Bangkok's former international airport. General Paochinda words were reminiscent of a past military coup, and urged the Prime Minister to do the right thing, and step down. 

Prime Minister Wongsawat indicated that his job was not finished, and he had to much work to do with Thailand being on the brink of war with Cambodia. Demonstrations by protesters continued all week, with most being arrested by the government. On Friday, demonstrators protested through the business district as well as red light district. 

As demonstrations continued, Thailand is becoming divided as a country, and government officials are becoming worried. Political turmoil has shadowed Thailand for the past three years, and Thai citizens are wondering if this trend will ever resolve itself.

My opinion on the current situation in Thailand, is that someone needs to step up in the political atmosphere and do what is right for Thailand as a country. If that means, that Prime Minister Wongsawat should step down and that is what is best for the country, I believe he should take the higher road and step down. I also believe that the King and Queen need to be proactive and get involved in the current situation. As leaders of the country, they should address the country and put assurance in the nation of Thailand. 

- Alyssa Ciambriello