This article documents a current event. Information may change rapidly as the event progresses.

Wikinews has news related to:

Category:2006 Thailand coup

Thailand

This article is part of the series: Politics and government of Thailand Image File history File links Current_event_marker. ... Image File history File links Wikinews-logo. ... Wikinews is a free-content news source and a project of the Wikimedia Foundation. ... Image File history File links Flag_of_Thailand. ... Thailand had been ruled by kings since the 13th century. ...

King Bhumibol Adulyadej Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont 2006 political crisis 2006 coup d'état Council for National Security Sonthi Boonyaratkalin Civilian interim government Cabinet of Thailand National Assembly Senate House of Representatives Political parties Elections April 2006 (invalidated) October 2006 (cancelled) October 2007 Constitutions 1997 Constitution (abrogated) 2006 Interim Constitution Provinces and districts Human rights South Thailand insurgency Foreign relations Foreign aid

Other countries • Politics Portal view • talk • edit

The 2006 Thailand coup d'état took place on Tuesday 19 September 2006, when the Royal Thai Army staged a coup against the government of caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The coup, which was Thailand's first in fifteen years, followed a year-long political crisis involving Thaksin and political opponents and occurred less than a month before nation-wide House elections were originally scheduled to be held. The military cancelled the upcoming elections, suspended the Constitution, dissolved Parliament, banned protests and all political activities, suppressed and censored the media, declared martial law, and arrested Cabinet members. The coup was bloodless, with no casualties reported. International reactions ranged from criticism by countries such as Australia to expressions of neutrality from countries such as China. The United States, which considers Thailand a major non-NATO ally, said it was "disappointed," and that the coup had "no justification." The kings in the current Chakri dynasty of Thailand are often referred to as Rama followed by Roman ordinal in English translation. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ... The following is a list of Prime Ministers of Thailand: Phraya Manopakorn Nititada, (1932-1933) General Phraya Phahol Pholphayuhasena, (1933-1938) Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram, (1938-1944) Major Khuang Abhaiwongse, (1944-1945) Tawee Boonyaket, (1945) Seni Pramoj, (1945) Major Khuang Abhaiwongse, (1946) Luang Praditmanutham, (1946) Rear Admiral Thawal Thamrong Navaswadhi... To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article may require cleanup. ... The Thailand political crisis 2005-2006 was a series of events which led to the downfall of the Thai government of Thaksin Shinawatra in April 2006. ... This article focuses on the military junta that overthrew the elected civilian government of Thailand in the 2006 Thailand coup. ... General Sonthi Boonyaratkalin (Thai: ; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratglin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ... The Thailand 2006 interim civilian government is the Thai provisional civilian government headed by Interim Prime Minister, retired General Surayud Chulanont, appointed on 1 October 2006, by the Council for National Security, the initial post-coup interim military government led by General Sonthi Boonyaratglin who overthrew the government of Thaksin... In the politics of Thailand, the Cabinet is a formal body composed of government officials chosen by the Prime Minister. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... Political parties in Thailand lists political parties in Thailand. ... Politics of Thailand Categories: Election related stubs | Elections in Thailand ... National legislative elections were held in Thailand. ... After Thailands April 2006 elections were declared invalid by the Constitutional Court, it was decided that new elections would be held on 15 October 2006. ... The Democracy Monument: a representation of the 1932 Constitution sits on top of two golden offering bowls above a turret, in a traffic circle in the center of Bangkok. ... The 2006 Interim Charter of Thailand was drafted by the Council for Democratic Reform (CDR) after it seized power from the government of Thaksin Shinawatra in the 2006 Thailand coup. ... Thailand is divided into 75 provinces (จังหวัด, changwat), and one municipality - the capital Bangkok (Krung Thep Maha Nakhon in Thai). ... Human Rights in Thailand The constitution provides for freedom of speech, press, peaceful assembly and association, religion, and movement within the country and abroad. ... Flag of Pattani Raya, a symbol of Pattani separatism The South Thailand insurgency is a separatist campaign centered in the Pattani region, three southern provinces of Thailand, with violence increasingly spilling over into neighbouring provinces and threatening to extend up to the national capital in Bangkok. ... Thailands foreign policy includes support for ASEAN in the interest of regional stability and emphasis on a close and longstanding security relationship with the United States. ... Foreign Aid to Thailand On July 31, 2003, Thailand repaid its outstanding obligations under a standby arrangement from the International Monetary Fund designed to help it recover from the 1997–98 Asian financial crisis. ... Information on politics by country is available for every country, including both de jure and de facto independent states, inhabited dependent territories, as well as areas of special sovereignty. ... September 19 is the 262nd day of the year (263rd in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Royal Thai Army is the army of Thailand. ... A coup détat (pronounced ), or simply coup, is the sudden overthrow of a government through unconstitutional means by a part of the state establishment — mostly replacing just the high-level figures. ... The following is a list of Prime Ministers of Thailand: Phraya Manopakorn Nititada, (1932-1933) General Phraya Phahol Pholphayuhasena, (1933-1938) Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram, (1938-1944) Major Khuang Abhaiwongse, (1944-1945) Tawee Boonyaket, (1945) Seni Pramoj, (1945) Major Khuang Abhaiwongse, (1946) Luang Praditmanutham, (1946) Rear Admiral Thawal Thamrong Navaswadhi... Wikinews has news related to: Thai PM Shinawatra ousted by coup Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai: , IPA: [ ; born July 26, 1949), Thai politician, is the ousted prime minister of Thailand and the leader of the populist Thai Rak Thai party. ... The Thailand political crisis 2005-2006 was a series of events which led to the downfall of the Thai government of Thaksin Shinawatra in April 2006. ... After Thailands April 2006 elections were declared invalid by the Constitutional Court, it was decided that new elections would be held on 15 October 2006. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... Demonstrators march in the street while protesting the World Bank and International Monetary Fund on April 16, 2005. ... Freedom of speech in Thailand is guaranteed in the articles 39, 40, 41 in the 1997 Constitution. ... Martial law is the system of rules that takes effect (usually after a formal declaration) when a military authority takes control of the normal administration of justice. ... A coup détat (pronounced ), or simply coup, is the sudden overthrow of a government through unconstitutional means by a part of the state establishment — mostly replacing just the high-level figures. ... Map of countries designated by the United States as major non-NATO allies Major non-NATO ally (MNNA) is a designation given by the United States government to exceptionally close allies who have strong strategic working relationships with American forces but are not members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. ...

The new rulers lead by general Sonthi Boonyaratglin and organised in a Council for Democratic Reform (CDR), issued a statement on 21 September setting out their reasons for taking power and giving a commitment to restore democratic government within one year.^[1] However, the CDR also announced that after elections and the establishment of a democratic government, the council would be transformed into a permanent "Council of National Security" whose future role in Thai politics has not yet been explained.^[2] The junta later drafted an interim charter and appointed retired General Surayud Chulanont as Premier. General Sonthi Boonyaratglin (Thai: ; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratkalin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ... This article focuses on the military junta that overthrew the elected civilian government of Thailand in the 2006 Thailand coup. ... September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article may require cleanup. ...

Events

Earlier coup rumours

Headline from the Thai newspaper The Nation, 20 May 2006

The coup followed months of rumours about unrest in the armed forces and possible coup plots. In May 2006, General Sondhi Boonyaratkalin issued assurances that the military would not intervene after rumours began circulating of a possible military coup. On 20 July 2006, around a hundred middle-ranking army officers said to be supporters of Thaksin were reassigned by the army high command, fuelling rumours that the army was divided between supporters and opponents of the prime minister. In August 2006, there were reports of tank movements near Bangkok, but the military attributed these to a scheduled exercise.^[3] In early September, Thai police arrested five army officers, all members of Thailand's counter-insurgency command, after intercepting one of the officers with a bomb in a car allegedly targeting the prime minister's residence.^[4] Three of the suspects were released after the coup.^[5] Image File history File links The_nation_200506. ... Image File history File links The_nation_200506. ... General Sonthi Boonyaratkalin (สนธิ บุญยรัตกลิน; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratglin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ... July 20 is the 201st day (202nd in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, with 164 days remaining. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Wikinews has news related to: Thai PM Shinawatra ousted by coup Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai: , IPA: [ ; born July 26, 1949), Thai politician, is the ousted prime minister of Thailand and the leader of the populist Thai Rak Thai party. ...

Day one (Tuesday)

On the evening of 19 September 2006, the Thai military and police overthrew the elected government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. At the time, the premier was in New York City for a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly. September 19 is the 262nd day of the year (263rd in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The following is a list of Prime Ministers of Thailand: Phraya Manopakorn Nititada, (1932-1933) General Phraya Phahol Pholphayuhasena, (1933-1938) Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram, (1938-1944) Major Khuang Abhaiwongse, (1944-1945) Tawee Boonyaket, (1945) Seni Pramoj, (1945) Major Khuang Abhaiwongse, (1946) Luang Praditmanutham, (1946) Rear Admiral Thawal Thamrong Navaswadhi... Wikinews has news related to: Thai PM Shinawatra ousted by coup Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai: , IPA: [ ; born July 26, 1949), Thai politician, is the ousted prime minister of Thailand and the leader of the populist Thai Rak Thai party. ... United Nations General Assembly - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia /**/ @import /skins-1. ...

• At 18:30, Royal Thai Army Special Forces units moved from Lopburi province to Bangkok. At the same time, Prem Tinsulanonda, Privy Council President, had an audience with King Bhumibol Adulyadej, reportedly concerning a merit-making ceremony for Bua Kitiyakara.
• By 21:00, the Special Forces units arrived in Bangkok.
• Around 21:30, Army-owned television broadcaster Channel 5 ceased scheduled programming and aired songs authored by King Bhumibol. By this time, rumours started spreading that the military had arrested Deputy Prime Minister in charge of national security Chitchai Wannasathit and Defence Minister Thammarak Isaragura na Ayuthaya, and that Thaksin's son had left the country. National radio, terrestrial TV, cable TV and some satellite broadcasters were taken off air shortly after (see below).
• At 21:40, police commandos arrived at the residence of Thaksin. Army tanks soon took positions throughout Bangkok.
• At 22:20, Thaksin declared a state of emergency by telephone from New York. He transferred General Sonthi Boonyaratglin from his post as Army Commander to a position at the Prime Minister's Office and appointed Supreme Commander General Ruangroj Mahasaranon to take control of the crisis. His declaration, broadcast on television, was cut immediately afterwards.^[6]
• At 23:00 Thawinan Khongkran, Miss Asia 1987 and head of Public Relations for Army-owned television station Channel 5.^[7] announced on TV that military and police units had Bangkok and the surrounding areas under control:

The armed forces commander and the national police commander have successfully taken over Bangkok and the surrounding area in order to maintain peace and order. There has been no struggle. We ask for the cooperation of the public and ask your pardon for the inconvenience. Thank you and good night.[8]

Central Bangkok showing sites named in this article or relevant to the events of September 2006

The junta initially called the Council for Democratic Reform under Constitutional Monarchy (CDRM) later took the name of Council for Democratic Reform to rule out suspicions about the role of the monarchy.^[9] Lop Buri (Thai ลพบุรี) is one of the central provinces (changwat) of Thailand. ... General Prem Tinsulanonda (Thai: เปรม ติณสูลานนท์, born August 26, 1920) is a Thai military and prime minister from 1980 till 1988. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX of Thailand His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej (ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช, Phumiphon Adunyadet), King Rama IX of Thailand (royal name Phra Chaoyuhua Bhumibol Adulyadej), the Great (born December 5, 1927), has been King of Thailand since... Chitchai Wannasathit (Thai ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์) was the acting caretaker Prime Minister of Thailand from April to May 2006, when Thaksin Shinawatra took a break from his duties as prime minister following a disappointing showing in elections; Thaksin returned to his duties after more than a month. ... Thammarak Isarangkura na Ayuthaya (Thai:ธรรมรักษ์ อิศรางกูร ณ อยุธยา) is a former Thai military officer, politician, co-founder of the Thai Rak Thai party, and former Defence Minister. ... Special forces or (sometimes colloquially and incorrectly) special operations forces (general term) are military units formed and trained to conduct missions of unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, direct action, and foreign internal defense. ... General Sonthi Boonyaratglin (Thai: ; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratkalin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ... The Miss Asia Pacific International is the first and oldest beauty pageant in Asia. ... Image File history File links Cquote1. ... Image File history File links Cquote2. ... In modern usage, junta (pronounced as in Spanish HUN-ta or HOON-ta) typically refers to a military dictatorship, especially in Latin America, which is officially run by a committee of high-ranking military officers. ... This article focuses on the military junta that overthrew the elected civilian government of Thailand in the 2006 Thailand coup. ... This article focuses on the military junta that overthrew the elected civilian government of Thailand in the 2006 Thailand coup. ...

• At 23:50, the CDR issued a second statement explaining the reasons for the coup d'état and wished "to reaffirm that it has no intention to become the administrators of the country." The Council promised to retain the king as head of state and to return administrative power to the Thai people "as quickly as possible."^[10]

• By 00:39 a third statement suspended the constitution and dissolved the Cabinet, both houses of Parliament, and the Constitutional Court.

Foreign news channels, such as BBC World, CNN, CNBC and Bloomberg Television, were reported to have been taken off air,^[11] although foreign broadcasters were still able to broadcast from Bangkok. Telecommunications networks (Telephone and the internet) were operational. Queen Elizabeth II, is the Head of State of 16 countries including: the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Jamaica, New Zealand and the Bahamas, as well as crown colonies and overseas territories of the United Kingdom. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... The Constitutional Court of Thailand (Thai: ศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ) is an independent Thai court established under the 1997 Constitution with jurisdiction over the constitutionality of parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, as well as the appointment and removal of public officials and issues regarding political parties. ... BBC World is the BBCs 24-hour international, news and information television channel, launched on January 1995. ... The Cable News Network, commonly known as CNN, is a major cable television network founded in 1980 by Ted Turner. ... CNBC (until 1991 the Consumer News and Business Channel) is a group of cable and satellite television Business news channels from the U.S., owned and operated by NBC Universal, a joint venture of General Electric and Vivendi Universal. ... Bloomberg Television is a cable television network that broadcasts business and financial news 24 hours a day, owned by Bloomberg L.P. Bloomberg Television is headquartered in New York City, home of the New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ. It is widely known for its unique multiscreen format. ...

The Army declared martial law nationwide, ordered all soldiers to report to their barracks and banned troop movements unauthorised by the CDR.^[12] Television footage showed heavily armed troops in M113 armoured personnel carriers and M998 HMMWV vehicles on the streets of the city. Many soldiers and military vehicles wore strips of yellow cloth as symbol of loyalty to the king, whose royal colour is yellow. Martial law is the system of rules that takes effect (usually after a formal declaration) when a military authority takes control of the normal administration of justice. ... The M113 is an armored personnel carrier family of vehicles in use with the US military and many other nations. ... The M113, one of the most common tracked APCs, on duty during the Vietnam War. ... This article refers to the Military HMMWV, not the civilian Hummer sold by General Motors General Characteristics (Humvee) Manufacturer: AM General Length: 4. ...

Junta commander Sonthi Boonyaratglin confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister Chitchai Wannasathit and Defence Minister Thammarak Isaragura na Ayuthaya had been arrested.^[13] High-ranked civil servants were ordered to report to the Council while government offices and banks would be closed on 20 September.^[14] General Sonthi Boonyaratglin (Thai: ; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratkalin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ... Chitchai Wannasathit (Thai ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์) was the acting caretaker Prime Minister of Thailand from April to May 2006, when Thaksin Shinawatra took a break from his duties as prime minister following a disappointing showing in elections; Thaksin returned to his duties after more than a month. ... Thammarak Isarangkura na Ayuthaya (Thai:ธรรมรักษ์ อิศรางกูร ณ อยุธยา) is a former Thai military officer, politician, co-founder of the Thai Rak Thai party, and former Defence Minister. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ...

A few hours after news of the coup broke, BBC News reported that the leader of the coup would be meeting with the King later in the day, although it was unclear at that time what King Bhumibol's position on the coup was. The current BBC News logo BBC News and Current Affairs is a major arm of the BBC responsible for the corporations newsgathering and production of news programmes on BBC television, radio and online. ...

Day two (Wednesday)

Frontpage of the Bangkok Post, 20 September 2006

• At 01:30 (20:30 UTC) on 20 September it was announced that the Prime Minister had cancelled his speech at the United Nations.^[15] The prime minister watched his downfall on television from a hotel in New York. Tom Kruesopon, an TRT member and an adviser Thaksin, said the premier "has not given up his power. He is not seeking asylum."^[16]

• At 09:16 General Sonthi Boonyaratglin announced in a television conference that the military had needed to seize power in order to unite the nation after months of political turmoil:

We have seized power. The constitution, the Senate, the House of Representatives, the Cabinet and the Constitutional Court have all been dissolved. We agreed that the caretaker prime minister has caused an unprecedented rift in society, widespread corruption, nepotism, and interfered in independent agencies, crippling them so they cannot function. If the caretaker government is allowed to govern it will hurt the country. They have also repeatedly insulted the king. Thus the council needed to seize power to control the situation, to restore normalcy and to create unity as soon as possible.

These charges should be put into context. For instance, a 2006 World Bank study found that during the Thaksin government from 2002 to 2005, Thailand's regulatory quality and ability to control corruption improved.^[17]. For more information, see Policies of the Thaksin government. Image File history File links BP200906. ... Image File history File links BP200906. ... The Bangkok Post is one of three daily English-language newspapers published in Bangkok, Thailand. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... Image File history File links Cquote1. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ... The Constitutional Court of Thailand (Thai: ศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ) is an independent Thai court established under the 1997 Constitution with jurisdiction over the constitutionality of parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, as well as the appointment and removal of public officials and issues regarding political parties. ... Nepotism means favoring relatives or personal friends because of their relationship rather than because of their abilities. ... Harding called for a return to normalcy. ... Image File history File links Cquote2. ... Logo of the World Bank The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD, in Romance languages: BIRD), better known as the World Bank, is an international organization whose original mission was to finance the reconstruction of nations devastated by WWII. Now, its mission has expanded to fight poverty by means... Wikinews has news related to: Thai PM Shinawatra ousted by coup Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai: , IPA: [ ; born July 26, 1949), Thai politician, is the ousted prime minister of Thailand and the leader of the populist Thai Rak Thai party. ...

Soldiers of the Royal Thai Army in the streets of Bangkok on the day after the coup.

Shortly after this announcement, Thai TV programmes resumed whilst cable TV partly resumed. However, main foreign news channels (CNN, BBC, CNBC, NHK and Bloomberg) remained blacked out. The Royal Thai Army is the army of Thailand. ...

• At 12:14 Coup authorities demanded the cooperation of mass media^[18] and later asked the Information and Communications Technology ministry(ICT) to control the distribution of all media information deemed harmful to the provisional military council.^[19]

• By 14:50, the 1997 Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand (also known as the "People's Constitution") was removed from the website of the National Assembly of Thailand.^[20]

The country's northern border with Laos and Myanmar were closed for a couple of day.^[21] The National Assembly (Rathasapha) is the legislative branch of the government of Thailand. ...

In an interview given before leaving New York for London with Deputy Prime Minister Surakiart Sathirathai, spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee, and his personal assistant Padung Limcharoenrat, Thaksin Shinawatra said: Surakiart Sathirathai (Thai: สุรเกียรติ์ เสถียรไทย, born June 7, 1958, Bangkok) is a Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand oversseing Foreign Affairs, Education and Culture. ...

I didn't expect that this will happen. I came here as Prime Minister but left as an unemployed man. It's fine that no one gives me a job. I volunteered to work but they didn't want to give me job, so it's fine.[22]

Thaksin was escorted to his home in Kensington where he joined his daughter Pinthongta, who is studying in London.^[23] A Foreign Office spokeswoman said that Thaksin's trip was a private visit.^[24] Image File history File links Cquote1. ... Image File history File links Cquote2. ... Kensington is an area to the west of Central London in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. ...

• At 15:35, junta leader Sonthi Boonyaratglin announced that the military had no plan to seize the personal assets of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and no plans to seize shares of Shin Corporation back from Temasek Holdings. Early in 2006, Thaksin sold his family's shares in Shin Corporation to Temasek.^[25]

• At 20:17 General Sonthi announced in a television statement that King Bhumibol Adulyadej had endorsed him as the head of the interim governing council. He also promised to restore democracy in a year's time.^[25]

Late in the evening, a spokesman of the CDR announced that the king has issued a royal command to appoint Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin as the CDR president.^[26] General Sonthi Boonyaratglin (Thai: ; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratkalin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ... Shin Corporation (SET: SHIN; NASDAQ: SHNZY; NASDAQ: SHNVF; NASDAQ: SHNUF) is the largest conglomerate in Thailand. ... Temasek Holdings is the investment arm of the Singapore government. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ...

Contradicting earlier announcement the CDR issued a 13th statement maintaining the status of the newly selected Election Commission and adding that the EC ACT would organise the election of local administrations and councils.^[27]

The Council for Democratic Reform then issued its seventh order dividing responsibilities into four divisions as part of responsibility sharing. The four divisions are the CDR , the secretariat, the advisory division and special affairs division.^[28]

Day three (Thursday)

Armoured vehicules parked inside the compound of the Headquarters of the 1st Army

The files and papers related to the investigation of the alleged^[29] car bomb plot against Mr Thaksin (24 August 2006) vanished from the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) Tuesday night around 21:30. Police loyal to deputy police chief Pol Gen Priewphan Damapong (brother of ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's wife Khunying Potjaman) were also seen loading assault weapons from the CSD in vehicles that went off to an unknown destination.^[30] August 24 is the 236th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (237th in leap years), with 129 days remaining. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

In the afternoon, Thailand's coup leader ordered media executives to army headquarters to tell them to stop carrying expression of public opinion following the military takeover. The move came after the military imposed strict controls on the media and said they would block information deemed harmful to the provisional military council now in control of Thailand. The army official said the normal television programming will be resumed but the council would begin making its own televised announcements every two hours starting from 11:00 am (0400 GMT).^[31]

RTA Troops and tanks begin the process of reducing their presence at key government facilities. Four tanks remained at Government House early Thursday, down from 10 the previous day, and fewer armed soldiers are on guard. "As of now we have only two companies of troops — some 50 to 60 — deployed at Government House but total withdrawal is up to the army commander because there is not yet complete trust in the situation," Lieutenant Romklao Thuwatham.^[32]

Thailand's coup leader ordered two more top aides, Newin Chidchob, the minister attached to the premier's office, and Yongyuth Tiyapairat, minister of natural resources and environment, to deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to report to the military, one day after detaining his senior deputy. "They must report themselves to the Council for Political Reform at Army Headquarters" at noon (0500 GMT) Thursday, the order said, referring to the provisional body the coup leaders have set up.^[33] Wikinews has news related to: Thai PM Shinawatra ousted by coup Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai: , IPA: [ ; born July 26, 1949), Thai politician, is the ousted prime minister of Thailand and the leader of the populist Thai Rak Thai party. ...

Ousted deputy prime minister Somkid Jatusripitak arrived at the Don Muang International Airport returning from France.^[34]

The chartered Thai Airways jet that took ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra to New York and later to London returned to the Don Muang Military Airport after being diverted from Bangkok's commercial airport. Onboard the plane were some 20 members of the press corps and low-ranking officials who had travelled with him. 10 heavily armed commandos immediately surrounded the plane and conducted an inspection. All were released after their passports were stamped.^[35] Wikinews has news related to: Thai PM Shinawatra ousted by coup Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai: , IPA: [ ; born July 26, 1949), Thai politician, is the ousted prime minister of Thailand and the leader of the populist Thai Rak Thai party. ...

Ousted Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra called for new snap elections in his homeland and confirmed he is bowing out of politics, urging "national reconciliation" after the coup in Bangkok. In a statement issued in London, Thaksin said he will devote himself to development and possibly charity work.

We hope the new regime will quickly arrange a new general election and continue to uphold the principles of democracy for the future of all Thais.[36]

The Nation reported that General Sonthi Boonyaratglin confronted Prin Suwannathat - commander of the First Infantry Division and a classmate of Thaksin before starting out the coup. When told "We have a consensus for a coup. What's your stance?" Prin reportedly replied: "It's up to all of you." allowing the coup to take place without bloodshed and with no resistance from pro-Thaksin forces.^[37] Image File history File links Cquote1. ... Image File history File links Cquote2. ...

Timing of the coup

Columnist Thanong Khanthong of The Nation claimed that Gen. Sonthi acted to prevent an imminent military coup by Thaksin. The columnist contended that Thaksin intended to use the political rally planned by the People's Alliance for Democracy at the Royal Plaza on Wednesday 20 September to trigger violence and then declare a state of emergency and place the country under martial law. General Sonthi would have learned from an intelligence report that Yongyuth Tiyapairat and Newin Chidchob were planning to organise a counter protest with the support of the Forestry Police armed with HK 33 rifles^[38] and acted before the bloodshed was set to take place.^[39] On Friday, the Rangers were in the process of being disarmed.^[40] Both Newin and Yongyuth were later detained, the latter being accused of mobilizing the Forestry Police.^[38][41] The Peoples Alliance for Democracy is a coalition of protesters against the government of Thaksin Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ...

However, fellow The Nation columnist Chang Noi called Thanong Khanthong's claims "a myth" that had "achieved the status of 'fact'." Chang Noi noted the absolute lack of any corroborating evidence to support the claims of imminent violence as well as the lack of opposing troop movements on the night of the coup. Chang Noi called the myth a "salve" for people "surprised and a little ashamed to find themselves supporting a coup. This myth makes the coup reactive and defensive." He also noted that General Saprang Kalayanamitr, commander of the Third Army, claimed that planning for the coup had begun 7 months in advance, thus contradicting claims that the coup was executed as a reactive pre-emptive strike against violence^[42] and Sonthi's who had said "hundreds of thousands" of pro- and anti-Thaksin supporters planned to descend on Bangkok. "There would have been a bloodbath."^[43]

The Nation noted that the timing of the coup contains many instances of the number nine, a highly auspicious number in Thai numerology. The coup occurred at the 19th day of the 9th month of Buddhist Era 2549. Coup leader Sonthi Boonyaratglin made a major public announcement on the morning after the coup at 9.39 am.^[44] The Nation earlier indicated 9:16 as the time for Sonthi's press conference^[45] and it should be noted that the Buddhist calendar is in line with the Gregorian calendar only since 1941. The factual accuracy of this article is disputed. ... The Thai solar, or Suriyakati (สุริยคติ), calendar is used in traditional and official contexts in Thailand, although the Western calendar is sometimes used in business. ... The Buddhist calendar is used on mainland southeast Asia in the countries of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar (formerly Burma) in several related forms. ... The Gregorian calendar is the calendar that is used nearly everywhere in the world. ...

Thailand's political situation

Thailand's deposed government

Outside Thailand

General Sonthi Boonyaratglin said Wednesday that ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra could return to the country, but warned he could face criminal charges. "Any prosecution would proceed under the law, and would depend on the evidence," Sonthi said.^[46]

However, Privy Councilor and interim Prime Minister General Surayud Chulanont warned against Thaksin's return, calling his return a "threat." "Myself and several other people understand that supporters and opponents will clash on the day that Thaksin returns home. It would be a big commotion," he said.^[47][48] The King of Thailand appoints a Privy Council of advisors. ... To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article may require cleanup. ...

Deputy Premier Surakiart Sathirathai was with Thaksin attending the UN General Assembly in New York when the military staged a coup on Tuesday against the prime minister. Surakiart was, at the time, in the hotly contested race to succeed UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, a Thai official said. "The (new) Thai authorities have reaffirmed their support for Dr Surakiart's candidature for the UNSG," Thai ambassador to the United States Virasakdi Futrakul told AFP. "There's no change. He's still in the race." The former Deputy Premier had left for Bangkok after the Junta took power and is reported to be returning to New York shortly.^[49] Surakiart Sathirathai (Thai: สุรเกียรติ์ เสถียรไทย, born June 7, 1958, Bangkok) is a Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand oversseing Foreign Affairs, Education and Culture. ... The United Nations Secretary-General is the head of the Secretariat, one of the principal divisions of the United Nations. ... This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... Official language(s) English de facto Capital Albany Largest city New York City Area  Ranked 27th  - Total 54,520 sq mi (141,205 km²)  - Width 285 miles (455 km)  - Length 330 miles (530 km)  - % water 13. ...

Finance Minister Thanong Bidaya remained in Singapore where he was attending the annual meeting of the World Bank/IMF. Commerce Minister Somkid Jatusripitak remained in Paris but returned to Bangkok on Thursday.^[50] Foreign Minister Kantathi Suphamongkhon flew from Paris, where he was attending the Thai-France Cultural Exhibition presided over by HRH Princess Sirindhorn, to London.^[51] Agriculture Minister Sudarat Keyuraphan was reported to have fled to Paris with her family.^[52] Thai Rak Thai party executive and former Interior Minister Kongsak Wantana left the country for Germany.^{[53][citation needed]} Logo of the World Bank The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD, in Romance languages: BIRD), better known as the World Bank, is an international organization whose original mission was to finance the reconstruction of nations devastated by WWII. Now, its mission has expanded to fight poverty by means... The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organization that oversees the global financial system by observing exchange rates and balance of payments, as well as offering financial and technical assistance when requested. ... Somkid Jatusripitak (Thai: สมคิด จาตุศรีพิทักษ์ ) born 15 July 1953, Thai politician, is currently Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce of the Kingdom of Thailand. ... Part of the Paris region skyline with from left to right: Montparnasse Tower, Eiffel Tower, and La Défense. ... Minister of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Foreign Affairs 443 Sri Ayutthaya Road Bangkok 10400 Thailand Telephone: (66) 2643 5000 Fax: (66) 2643 5314 Website: [1] Profile Kantathi Suphamongkhon is a Thai diplomat and politician. ... HRH Maha Chakri Sirindhorn HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn (Thai: ; Som det phra thep phra rat raat cha su daa Chao fa Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Ratha si ma ku na korn pi ya chat Siam ba rom ma raat cha ku maa ree) is an extremely popular princess of Thailand... Sudarat Keyuraphan (born May 1, 1961, Thai: สุดารัตน์ เกยุราพันธ์ ) is a Thai politician and the deputy leader of the Thai Rak Thai party. ... Thai Rak Thai (ไทยรักไทย, lit. ...

Arrested or detained by the junta

Deputy Prime Minister in charge of national security Chitchai Wannasathit was arrested after the coup and detained at the Army Command. He was detained on Wednesday and is now being held at a guesthouse on the northern outskirts of Bangkok, according to army spokesman Colonel Acar Tiproj.^[54] Defence Minister Thammarak Isaragura na Ayuthaya is in hiding.^{[citation needed]} His whereabouts are unknown. Former Secretary-General to the Premier Prommin Lertsuridej and Labor Ministry Permanent Secretary Somchai Wongsawat (who is Thaksin's brother-in-law) were also placed under arrest on the second floor of the Army Command building.^{[53][citation needed]} The Secretary-General was last reported being detained at the same guesthouse as the Deputy Chitchai Wannasathit.^[54] Chitchai Wannasathit (Thai ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์) was the acting caretaker Prime Minister of Thailand from April to May 2006, when Thaksin Shinawatra took a break from his duties as prime minister following a disappointing showing in elections; Thaksin returned to his duties after more than a month. ... The Bangkok Skytrain at sunset on Thanon Narathiwat Ratcha Nakharin with Empire Tower at the back. ... Thammarak Isarangkura na Ayuthaya (Thai:ธรรมรักษ์ อิศรางกูร ณ อยุธยา) is a former Thai military officer, politician, co-founder of the Thai Rak Thai party, and former Defence Minister. ... Chitchai Wannasathit (Thai ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์) was the acting caretaker Prime Minister of Thailand from April to May 2006, when Thaksin Shinawatra took a break from his duties as prime minister following a disappointing showing in elections; Thaksin returned to his duties after more than a month. ...

Natural Resources and Environmental Minister Yongyuth Tiyapairat and Deputy Agriculture Minister Newin Chidchop were ordered to report themselves to the junta by noon Thursday. The junta did not specify what punishment they would receive if they failed to report. At the time, there were reports that both Yongyuth and Newin were in London.^[55] Troops raided Yongyuth's houses in Mae Chan district of Chiang Rai province (at 10.35 Wednesday) and Bangkok (Wednesday night), but did not find him.^[56] Both Yongyuth and Newin reported themselves at Army Headquarters on Thursday, and were detained.^[57][58]

Chidchai Wannasathit, Newin Chidchop, Yongyuth Tiyapairat, and Prommin Lertsuridet were freed after the Interim Charter was promulgated.^[59] The status of Thammarak Isaragura na Ayuthaya was unknown.

In Thailand

Several party executives including Chaturon Chaisang, Phumtham Wechayachai and Suranand Vejjajiva were reported to still be in Thailand and not arrested by the junta. TRT MP Veera Musikapong was also at liberty. Party Deputy and Industry Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit and former Social Development and Human Security Minister Watana Muangsook were reported to be staying in the country at an unidentified location.^[60] Suriya Jungrungreangkit (born December 10, 1954, Thai: สุริยะ จึงรุ่งเรืองกิจ) is a Thai politician of the Thai Rak Thai party. ...

Civil servants, government agencies and family

The junta initiated the removal from the civil service of people appointed by the Thaksin government as well as his former classmates at the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School. Several military officers were transferred to inactive posts. Also removed were 18 senior police officers which the junta claimed could pose a threat to national security if they were to remain in their current posts. For a list of transfered military and police officers, see Removal from the civil service by the CDR The Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School (Thai: โรงเรียนเตรียมทหาร) is a Thai military academy, providing an education equivalent to the last two years of senior high school (years 11-12). ... This article focuses on the military junta that overthrew the elected civilian government of Thailand in the 2006 Thailand coup. ...

The junta affirmed on 20 September that along with the abolition of the Constitution, the Constitutional Court and other independent organisations set up under the abrogated charter were automatically abolished. However, the status of Auditor-General Jaruvan Maintaka was maintained by an order of the junta. The same order dissolved the State Audit Commission. She appeared when summoned along with senior government officials by the junta.^[61] The Constitutional Court of Thailand (Thai: ศาลรัฐธรรมนูญ) is an independent Thai court established under the 1997 Constitution with jurisdiction over the constitutionality of parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, as well as the appointment and removal of public officials and issues regarding political parties. ... Jaruvan Maintaka (Thai: จารุวรรณ เมณฑกา), born 1947, is the current Auditor-General (Thai: ผู้ว่าการตรวจเงินแผ่นดิน) of the Kingdom of Thailand. ...

Surasit Sangkhapong, director of the Government Lottery Office and an aide of Thaksin resigned to allow Auditor-General Jaruvan Maintaka to conduct an investigation into an allegation of irregularity.^[62] Jaruvan Maintaka (Thai: จารุวรรณ เมณฑกา), born 1947, is the current Auditor-General (Thai: ผู้ว่าการตรวจเงินแผ่นดิน) of the Kingdom of Thailand. ...

Pol Col Priewphan Damapong, Deputy Police Commissioner-General and brother-in-law of Thaksin Shinawatra, reported himself to the national police chief in line with the junta's orders.^[63]

Thaksin's wife and son, initially reported as having left Thailand for Singapore ahead of the declaration of martial law,^[64] were later reported in Thailand.^[65][66][67] It was suggested they remained to look after the family's finances.^[65] On Monday 25 September Pojaman Shinawatra left Bangkok at 1:30 am (1830 GMT) to join her husband in London.^[68] September 25 is the 268th day of the year (269th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

Council for Democratic Reform

Main article: Council for Democratic Reform

The junta ruled with a series of announcements. An early announcement asked the media to call it by its full name, the Council for Democratic Reform under the Constitutional Monarchy (CDRM), rather than just the Council for Democratic Reform (CDR). The junta said that the public might be misled if it wasn't understood that the junta was working "under the Constitutional Monarchy".^[69] Later, the junta formally shortened its English name (but not its Thai name) to Council for Democratic Reform (CDR) in order to avoid any suspicions about the role of the monarchy in the coup.^[70] This article focuses on the military junta that overthrew the elected civilian government of Thailand in the 2006 Thailand coup. ...

The 11th official announcement of the military regime outlined its leadership. It was composed of the leaders of all branches of the Thai military and police.^[71]

• Army Commander General Sonthi Boonyaratglin, named Chief of the Council for Democratic Reform
• Navy Commander Admiral Sathiraphan Keyanon, named first deputy chief of CDR
• Air Force Commander Air Chief Marshal Chalit Pookpasuk, named second deputy chief of CDR
• Police Commissioner-General Police General Kowit Wattana, named third deputy chief of CDR
• National Security Council Secretary-General General Winai Phatthiyakul, named Secretary-General of the CDR
• Supreme Commander General Ruangroj Mahasaranon, named Chief Adviser to the CDR

On 20 September 2006 (local time in Bangkok), the junta denied that it had appointed a Prime Minister, and noted that General Sonthi Boonyaratglin had the powers of a Premier.^[72] General Sonthi Boonyaratglin (Thai: ; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratkalin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ... Kowit Wattana is the Police Comissioner-General of Thailand. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

A week after the coup, Sonthi's former classmate General Boonsrang Naimpradit was promoted from Deputy Supreme Commander to the post of Supreme Cmmander, replacing Ruangroj Mahasaranon. Junta Secretary General, Winai Phattiyakul, was promoted to the post of Permanent Secretary for Defence.^[73]

Gen Sonthi also promoted his fellow classmates and lieutenants in the coup, 1st Army Region Commander Lt-Gen Anupong Paochinda and 3rd Army Region Commander Lt-Gen Saprang Kalayanamitr, to the post of Assistant Army Commander.^[74][75]

Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin told Reuters news agency :"I can assure you it is impossible that we will control the government. [...] We will be the government's tool to keep peace."^[76]

In its 16th announcement, the CDR gave itself the role of parliament.^[77] On 22 September, the junta gave Police General Kowit Wattana absolute power over all police matters and named him chair of a new National Police Commission to rewrite the 2004 National Police Bill.^[78] Kowit Wattana is the Police Comissioner-General of Thailand. ...

Appointment of advisory committee

Main article: Council for Democratic Reform#Appointment of advisors

The junta ordered 58 prominent civilians to serve as its advisers. However, most of the appointees denied any knowledge of the appointments, with several saying they couldn't serve. "I have said that the coup is wrong, how can I serve as its advisory board?" asked Chaiwat Satha-anand of the Faculty of Political Science of Chulalongkorn University.^[79] Pratheep Ungsongtham Hata, who was appointed to the reconciliation panel, also boycotted the CDR's advisory board, noting that as a democracy advocate, she could not work with the CDR, which took by unconstitutional means. Pibhob Dhongchai, a leader of the defunct anti-Thaksin People's Alliance for Democracy, said he could not participate in the reconciliation panel because he was a member of the National Economic and Social Advisory Council, and already had a channel to advise the government.^[80] This article focuses on the military junta that overthrew the elected civilian government of Thailand in the 2006 Thailand coup. ... Chulalongkorn University is the oldest university in Thailand and has long been considered to be the countrys most prestigious university. ... The Peoples Alliance for Democracy is a coalition of protesters against the government of Thaksin Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand. ...

Pasuk Pongpaichit, an anti-Thaksin economist who had also been appointed, denied that she would serve as an advisor, using as her excuse an impending extended trip to Japan.^[81] However, some appointees welcomed their appointments, like Nakharin Mektrairat and Thawee Suraritthikul, the deans of the Faculty of Political Science of Thammasat and Sukhothai Thammathirat University, respectively.^[82] When asked by the press why the junta had not informed the appointees of their appointments, the CDR spokesman Lt-Gen Palangoon Klaharn said: "It is not necessary. Some matters are urgent. It is an honour to help the country. I believe that those who have been named will not reject the appointment because we haven't damaged their reputation."^[83]

Investigation of the deposed government

See also: Council for Democratic Reform#Investigation of the deposed government

The junta established a committee empowered to investigate any projects or acts by members of the Thaksin government and others who were suspected of any irregularities, including personal tax evasion. The committee, chaired by Nam Yimyaem, had the authority to freeze the assets of members and families of the Thaksin government accused of corruption and was composed of several figures who had been publically critical of the Thaksin government, including Kaewsan Atibhoti, Jaruvan Maintaka, Banjerd Singkaneti, Klanarong Chantik, and Sak Korsaengruang. This article focuses on the military junta that overthrew the elected civilian government of Thailand in the 2006 Thailand coup. ... Jaruvan Maintaka (Thai: จารุวรรณ เมณฑกา), born 1947, is the current Auditor-General (Thai: ผู้ว่าการตรวจเงินแผ่นดิน) of the Kingdom of Thailand. ...

A seperate decree (No. 31) gave the NCCC the authority to freeze the assets of politicians who failed to report their financial status by a deadline or intentionally reported false information. Another decree (No. 27) increased the penalty for political party executives whose parties had been ordered dissolved, from simply banning them from forming or becoming executives of a new party, to stripping them of their electoral rights for five years.^[84][85]

Interim constitution

Main article: 2006 Interim Constitution of Thailand

A draft interim constitution was released on 27 September 2006, and received mixed reactions.^[86][87] Structurally, the draft was similar to the 1991 Constitution, the 1976 Constitution, and the 1959 Charter, in that it allows an extremely powerful executive branch to appoint the entire legislature. The CDR, which would be transformed into a Council for National Security (CNS), would appoint the head of the executive branch, the entire legislature, and the drafters of a permanent constitution.^[88] The 2006 Interim Charter of Thailand was drafted by the Council for Democratic Reform (CDR) after it seized power from the government of Thaksin Shinawatra in the 2006 Thailand coup. ... September 27 is the 270th day of the year (271st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Democracy Monument: a representation of the 1932 Constitution sits on top of two golden offering bowls above a turret, in a traffic circle in the center of Bangkok. ... This article focuses on the military junta that overthrew the elected civilian government of Thailand in the 2006 Thailand coup. ...

Thailand's future government

Main article: Thailand 2006 interim civilian government

See also: Surayud Chulanont#Prime Minister of Thailand

Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin, leader of the Council for Democratic Reform under Constitutional Monarchy told foreign diplomats that a civilian government and prime minister would be appointed to run the country within two weeks.^[89] The constitution would be amended for a rapid return to democracy through a national election in a year's time.^[90] This would imply that the October 2006 elections will not take place as scheduled. The Thailand 2006 interim civilian government is the Thai provisional civilian government headed by Interim Prime Minister, retired General Surayud Chulanont, appointed on 1 October 2006, by the Council for National Security, the initial post-coup interim military government led by General Sonthi Boonyaratglin who overthrew the government of Thaksin... To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article may require cleanup. ... After Thailands April 2006 elections were declared invalid by the Constitutional Court, it was decided that new elections would be held on 15 October 2006. ...

Sonthi confirmed a previous statement saying that Thaksin and the members of his cabinet have done no wrong and can return to Thailand. However, Privy Councilor and top contender of appointment as interim Prime Minister General Surayud Chulanont warned against Thaksin's return, calling his return a "threat."^[91][92] The King of Thailand appoints a Privy Council of advisors. ... To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article may require cleanup. ...

Sonthi said Thailand was and still is a democracy and that tourists can continue to visit the country normally. The U.S. State Department has not issued a travel warning for Thailand, but has advised tourists to be vigilant. The United States Department of State, often referred to as the State Department, is the Cabinet-level foreign affairs agency of the United States government, equivalent to foreign ministries in other countries. ...

On 20 September 2006, Thailand's Army chief and current interim leader, General Sonthi Boonyaratglin, pledged to hold general elections by October 2007.^[93] September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Wikipedia does not yet have an article with this exact name. ... An election is a decision making process whereby people vote for preferred political candidates or parties to act as representatives in government. ...

Many civilians were rumored to have been short-listed for appointment to figurehead Prime Minister. These included General Surayud Chulanont (Privy Councilor to King Bhumibol Adulyadej), Akharathorn Chularat, (Chief Justice of the Supreme Administrative Court), and Pridiyathorn Devakula, (Governor of the Bank of Thailand), and Supachai Panitchpakdi (Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development).^[94][95] To meet Wikipedias quality standards, this article may require cleanup. ... The King of Thailand appoints a Privy Council of advisors. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ... Mom Rajawongse Pridiyathorn Devakula (Thai: born 15 July 1947) has been Governor of the Bank of Thailand since 2001. ... The Bank of Thailand (ธนาคารแห่งประเทศไทย) is the central bank of the Thailand. ... Supachai Panitchpakdi (Thai: ศุภชัย พานิชภักดิ์, born 1946 in Bangkok, Thailand) is the new Secretary General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). ... The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) was established in 1964 as a permanent intergovernmental body, UNCTAD is the principal organ of the United Nations General Assembly dealing with trade, investment and development issues. ...

On 26 September 2006, junta leader Sonthi Boonyaratglin said that the junta would remain in place after the appointment of a civilian government, noting "It's necessary to keep the council so that there is no loophole for the executive branch."^[96] September 26 is the 269th day of the year (270th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 96 days remaining. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Following the appointment of a new interim civilian government, the junta would be transformed into a permanent "Council of National Security". It will dissolve itself once the general election is held a year later.^[97]

Restrictions on human rights and freedom of expression

For general information about the Thai media, see Media in Thailand. For information about censorship in Thailand prior to the coup see Censorship in Thailand. Thailand has a well-developed media sector, especially by Southeast Asian standards. ... Freedom of speech in Thailand is guaranteed in the articles 39, 40, 41 in the 1997 Constitution. ...

Over 90% of Thais own a television and over 50% own a radio. For most Thais, TV and radio are the only source of daily news and information about the coup. Less then 20% of the population reads daily newspapers.^[98] As of 2004 Internet users made up less than 12% of of the population nationwide, and 26% in the Bangkok area.^[99] The junta imposed and maintained censorship on television from the first day of the coup onwards. However, no newspaper publications were suppressed and censorship of the Internet did not start until several days after the coup.

Restrictions on broadcasting and the press

The CDR demanded the cooperation of the Thai mass media and authorised the censorship of news reports that might be negative to the military.^[100] During the first 12 hours of the coup information was available only to those able to access the Internet or receive TV channels by satellites not controlled by the junta.

Television censorship

On the evening of Tuesday 19 September, regular programmes on Thai television channels were replaced by video clips and music authored by the King. The next day, shortly after Sondhi's TV conference, all Thai channels were back on air under control of the ICT Ministry authorised to censor information. September 19 is the 262nd day of the year (263rd in leap years). ...

On Thursday 21 September 2006, the CDR summoned media executives to Army Headquarters and ordered them to stop carrying expressions of public opinion. This included a ban against the common practice of broadcasting viewers' text messages on a news ticker. The junta did not say whether the ban would extend to newspaper editorials or internet web boards.^[101] September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... SMS arrival notification on a Siemens phone Short Message Service (SMS) is a service available on most digital mobile phones (and other mobile devices, e. ... A News Ticker is a small screen space on News television networks dedicated to headlines or minor pieces of news. ...

Thai television broadcasters did not air footage of demonstrations against the coup, including the first major protest on 22 September at Siam Square.^[102]

Local cable broadcasts of CNN, BBC, CNBC, NHK, and several other several other foreign news channels were censored, with any footage involving former Premier Thaksin blacked out.^[103] Please wikify (format) this article as suggested in the Guide to layout and the Manual of Style. ... The Cable News Network, commonly known as CNN, is a major cable television network founded in 1980 by Ted Turner. ... The British Broadcasting Corporation, invariably known as the BBC (and also informally known as the Beeb or Auntie) is the largest public broadcasting corporation in the world. ... CNBC (until 1991 the Consumer News and Business Channel) is a group of cable and satellite television Business news channels from the U.S., owned and operated by NBC Universal, a joint venture of General Electric and Vivendi Universal. ... NHK (日本放送協会, Nippon Hōsō Kyōkai), or the Japan Broadcasting Corporation, is Japans public broadcaster. ... Wikinews has news related to: Thai PM Shinawatra ousted by coup Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai: , IPA: [ ; born July 26, 1949), Thai politician, is the ousted prime minister of Thailand and the leader of the populist Thai Rak Thai party. ...

On Thursday September 21, 2006, The Guardian disclosed that armed soldiers are sitting in every television news studio and control room.^[104]. As of Thursday October 12, 2006, Suwanna Uyanan, vice president of the Thai Broadcasting Journalists Association, says that soldiers are still occupying Channel 11, where she works. ^[105] September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Guardian is a British newspaper owned by the Guardian Media Group. ... October 12 is the 285th day of the year in the Gregorian calendar (286th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

The nine members of Board of Directors of MCOT, a privatised state-owned media company, resigned on 26 September with effect as of 27 September in order to take responsibility for allowing Thaksin Shinwatra to address the nation on MCOT-controlled Modernine TV (Channel 9).^[106] MCOT Public Company Limited (Thai: บริษัท อสมท จำกัด (มหาชน)) is a Thai media conglomerate. ... September 26 is the 269th day of the year (270th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar, with 96 days remaining. ... September 27 is the 270th day of the year (271st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

Radio censorship

On Thursday 21 September 2006, the CDR ordered more than 300 community radio stations in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son to suspend broadcasts. Community radio stations in Lamphun, Lampang, and Phayao were also ordered to turn their transmitters off. In addition, the pro-Thaksin Muan Chon Community Radio in Udon Thani stopped broadcasting on Wednesday. Police were stationed at the radio building as well as the office of Siang Tham Community Radio Station, owned by revered monk Luang Ta Maha Bua. Maha Bua had been a key supporter of the People's Alliance for Democracy.^[107] September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Thailand has a well-developed media sector, especially by Southeast Asian standards. ... Chiang Mai (Thai เชียงใหม่) is the second-biggest province (changwat) of Thailand, located in the north of the country. ... Chiang Rai (Thai เชียงราย) is the most northern province (changwat) of Thailand. ... Mae Hong Son (Thai แม่ฮ่องสอน) (also Mae Hong Sorn) is one of the northern provinces (changwat) of Thailand. ... Luang Ta Maha Bua (Thai: หลวงตามหาบัว ) is the common name of Pra Dharma Visuthimongkol (Thai: พระธรรมวิสุทธิมงคล ), a controversial Buddhist monk from Thailand. ... The Peoples Alliance for Democracy is a coalition of protesters against the government of Thaksin Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand. ...

In response to the community radio ban, some station operators vowed to air only non political programmes. They promised self-censorship to ensure their programmes would not infringe against CDR rules. Others in the North initiated a signed pledge campaign that they would not become involved in politics and that their programming would be completely free of politics.^[108]

Press censorship

The websites of the leading Bangkok newspapers Bangkok Post, The Nation and Thai Rath had been functioning normally and were reporting the coup. Both the Bangkok Post and The Nation had been strong critics of the deposed government. The Daily News website included extensive photographic coverage of the military operations. On the morning of Wednesday, 20 September newspapers were available as usual. The Bangkok Post is one of three daily English-language newspapers published in Bangkok, Thailand. ... External Links: MangoDaily. ... Thai Rath (Thai ไทยรัฐ) is a Thai language daily newspaper published in Bangkok, Thailand and distributed nationwide. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ...

On Saturday 23 September 2006, the CDR said they would "urgently retaliate against foreign reporters whose coverage has been deemed insulting to the monarchy." Numerous international news agencies speculated at the King's role in the coup (see Role and position of the King). In September 2006, following a lengthy political crisis in Thailand, members of the Royal Thai Army staged a coup détat against the government of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. ...

Internet censorship

On September 21, during a meeting with internet service providers and operators of TV stations, radio stations and other ICT businesses, the ICT Ministry (ICT) asked webmasters to close political webboards found to contain provocative messages for 12 days. Kraisorn Pornsuthee, ICT Permanent Secretary said that websites and webboards will face permanent closure if such messages continue to appear, but that messages could be posted on webboards as long as they do not provoke any misunderstandings.^[109] The anti-coup website 19sep.org was shut down, but later relocated to the US.^[110] The official website of the Thai Rak Thai party was also shut down.

The Midnight University website, a free scholarly resource and discussion board, was shut down after the management of Midnight University and scholars from Chiang Mai University conducted protest against the junta's draft interim charter. Somkiat Tangnamo, the webmaster of Midnight University, claimed the site contained 1,500 free scholarly articles and received 2.5 million visits per month. Kasian Tejapira of Thammasat University claimed the website was "the foremost free and critical educational and public intellectual website in Thailand. [The shutdown] is not only a huge loss to academic and intellectual freedom in Thai society, but also the closure of a free forum for the contention of ideas so as to find a peaceful alternative to violent conflict in Thailand".Kraisorn Pornsuthee ICT Ministry permanent secretary said he did not know about the shutdown of the website and would ask for details from his officials.^[111] Chiang Mai University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยเชียงใหม่) was the first provincial university in Thailand and the first university in Thailand that is named after the city it is located in. ... Thammasat University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), formerly known as the University of Moral and Political Science (มหาวิทยาลัยวิชาธรรมศาสตร์และการเมือง), is the second oldest university in Thailand and is often considered to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. ...

In the second week after the coup, the Thai Rak Thai website was temporarily inaccessible, without indication if it was an act of censure or not. The Thaksin.com website used by Thaksin to receive mails and comments from his supporters and to promote himself was also inaccessible.^[112]

Restrictions on political meetings and political parties

The military also banned any gathering of five or more people for political purposes, threatening violators with six months in jail. On Wednesday 20 September, the military arrested activist Chalard Worachat along with hunger striker and former MP Thawee Kraikup at Democracy Monument while they were peacefully protesting against the coup.^[100] September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... Chalard Worachat (Thai: ) is a Thai activist. ... A hunger strike is a method of non-violent resistance in which participants fast as an act of political protest or to achieve a goal such as a policy change. ...

The anti-Thaksin People's Alliance for Democracy formally cancelled its scheduled rally for 20 September 2006 and later dissolved itself, after having reached its self-set goal of toppling the Thaksin government.^[113][114] The status of the Mass Party, established by PAD leaders, was not known. The Peoples Alliance for Democracy is a coalition of protesters against the government of Thaksin Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Thailand's coup leaders Thursday banned political parties from holding meetings or from conducting any other activities, according to a statement read on national television. The junta also barred the establishment of new political parties.

In order to maintain law and order, meetings of political parties and conducting of other political activities are banned.[115] Image File history File links Cquote1. ...

"Political gatherings of more than five people have already been banned, but political activities can resume when normalcy is restored," the statement said.^[116] Image File history File links Cquote2. ...

In its 22nd Announcement, the junta ordered a complete ban on all political activities, including those at the local level like tambon administrative organizations and provincial administrative organisations.^[117]

Despite the bans, the organizers of the Thai Social Forum, a major nation-wide conference of 300 social and political activists, insisted that the meeting would continue to take place from at Thammasat University's Rangsit Center from 21-23 October. Jon Ungphakorn, an organizer said that the stress of the conference would be media reform and press freedom.^[118] Thammasat University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), formerly known as the University of Moral and Political Science (มหาวิทยาลัยวิชาธรรมศาสตร์และการเมือง), is the second oldest university in Thailand and is often considered to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. ... Jon Ungpakorn (Thai จอน อึ๊งภากรณ์, born September 19, 1947) is a Thai NGO executive and member of the Senate. ...

Restrictions on the right to travel

The military has interpreted the restriction on the right to assembly as a restriction against travel, especially in the stronghold of ex-PM North and Eastern area, in at least one case. On the night of 25 September, 100 teachers from Chiang Rai (in the North) were traveling via bus to attend a social function in Chonburi (on the eastern coast) when they were stopped by soldiers at a checkpoint. The soldiers refused to allow the two busloads of teachers to continue because they failed to provide a permit from the Chiang Rai Army Commander for them to move in a group larger than five people.^[119] Nakhon Chiang Rai, showing the ancient city walls and more recent gates : Pratu Nang Ing (ประตูนางอิง) Pratu Chiang Mai (ประตูเชียงใหม่) Pratu Wai (ประตูหวาย) Pratu Pa Daeng (ประตูป่าแดัง) Pratu Pi (ประตูผี) Pratu Kha Tam (ประตูขะต๊ำ) Pratu Tha Nak (ประตูท่านาค) Pratu Tha Sai (ประตูท่าทราย) Pratu Tho (ประตูท่อ) Pratu Yang Soeng (ประตูยางเสิ้ง) Pratu Jao Chai (ประตูเจ้าชาย) Pratu Sri (ประตูสรี) Nakhon Chiang Rai (Thai เชียงราย) is a... Chunburi is both a province and a city in Thailand. ...

Large groups travelling into Bangkok are now required to seek authorization from their District Offices.^[120]

Role and position of the King

It was widely assumed by Thai analysts and the international media that the coup had the support of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The silence of both the King and Privy Council President General Prem Tinsulanonda on the day following the coup was taken as indicating support. Remarks made earlier in 2006 by Thaksin had been widely understood as a criticism of Prem’s continued influence in Thai politics. Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ... The King of Thailand appoints a Privy Council of advisors. ... General Prem Tinsulanonda (Thai: เปรม ติณสูลานนท์, born August 26, 1920) is a Thai military and prime minister from 1980 till 1988. ... Wikinews has news related to: Thai PM Shinawatra ousted by coup Thaksin Shinawatra (Thai: , IPA: [ ; born July 26, 1949), Thai politician, is the ousted prime minister of Thailand and the leader of the populist Thai Rak Thai party. ...

Royal endorsement is critical to establishing legitimacy for military rebellions - every successful coup over the past 60 years has been endorsed by King Bhumibol. Previous unendorsed coups in 1981 and 1985 failed after at most a few days. For background, see King Bhumibol's role in Thai politics. Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX of Thailand His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej (ภูมิพลอดุลยเดช, Phumiphon Adunyadet), King Rama IX of Thailand (royal name Phra Chaoyuhua Bhumibol Adulyadej), the Great (born December 5, 1927), has been King of Thailand since... Major General Manoonkrit Roopkachorn (born Manoon Roopkachorn) is a former Thai military officer and a Thai Senator. ... Major General Manoonkrit Roopkachorn (born Manoon Roopkachorn) is a former Thai military officer and a Thai Senator. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ...

At the time that Special Forces started mobilizing from Lopburi to Bangkok, Prem was having an audience with the King.^[6] This led to speculation outside Thailand that the King had advance knowledge of the coup, or even that he had executive control over it, although there was no direct evidence for this. The day after the coup, the King endorsed it and its leader. Given the extensive reserve powers retained by the King, this statement gave legitimacy to the coup and legal authority to Sonthi’s position. A reserve power is a power that may be exercised by the head of state of a country in certain exceptional circumstances. ...

Several Thai analysts have said that the King must have at least been in favour of the coup. "The role of the king was critical in this crisis," said Thitinan Pongsudhirak of Chulalongkorn University, adding that "This coup was nothing short of Thaksin versus the King. He is widely seen as having implicitly endorsed the coup." Thitinan said he believed the King had allowed the coup to take place as it was the best option available. "What we were heading for otherwise was violence in the streets," he said. Thitinan Pongsudhirak is a Thai political scientist and a Profesor at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok. ... Chulalongkorn University is the oldest university in Thailand and has long been considered to be the countrys most prestigious university. ...

Sulak Sivaraksa, a well-known social critic, said, "Without his involvement, the coup would have been impossible." Sulak added that the King is "very skilful. He never becomes obviously involved. If this coup goes wrong, Sonthi will get the blame, but whatever happens, the King will only get praise."^[121] Sulak Sivaraksa Sulak Sivaraksa (Thai สุลักษณ์ ศิวรักษ์, born March 27, 1933 in Thailand) is founder and director of the Thai NGO Sathirakoses-Nagapradeepa Foundation“. Besides being the initator of a number of social, humanitarian, ecological and spiritual movements and organizations in Thailand, like the College SEM (Spirit in Education Movement) Sulak Sivaraksa... General Sonthi Boonyaratglin (Thai: ; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratkalin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ...

The Bangkok correspondent of The Australian, Peter Alford, wrote: "The King’s overriding commitment has always been to social stability… and by December last year, he had clearly lost any faith in Thaksin’s capacity to govern without wedging the country apart… All Prem need do is refrain from criticising the coup… for almost all Thais to believe they know the King's will."^[122] The Australian (informally referred to as The Oz) is a national daily broadsheet newspaper published by Rupert Murdochs News Corporation. ...

National reactions

The coup occurred after nearly two years of escalating anti-Thaksin sentiment, particularly in Bangkok. Even long-standing rural supporters of Thaksin reported increasing frustration at the tensions caused by the Thailand political crisis 2005-2006.^[123] The Thailand political crisis 2005-2006 was a series of events which led to the downfall of the Thai government of Thaksin Shinawatra in April 2006. ...

Public support for the coup has been widely aired and published whilst public expression of opinion against the coup has been limited by the military control over the media, the ban on protests and political activity, and the arrest of some Cabinet members by the junta. Protest has also arisen from both pro- and anti- Thaksin supporters and is directed against the use of military power to resolve a political stalemate. Protest is also limited following the king's endorsement of the coup and the junta's use of a royal decree that legitimizes the coup. See also Censorship in Thailand. Freedom of speech in Thailand is guaranteed in the articles 39, 40, 41 in the 1997 Constitution. ...

Reactions from the Thai Rak Thai and its supporters

See also: Thai Rak Thai#After the September 2006 coup

With Thaksin and most of the Thai Rak Thai-party leaders in London and some of its top executive in detention,^[124][125] the reaction of the TRT has been minimal. Several former party leader believe the party will have to be dissolved. Former Khon Kaen MP Prajak Kaewklaharn said "When we have no leader and no executives, the party cannot continue" Thai Rak Thai (ไทยรักไทย, lit. ... Thai Rak Thai (ไทยรักไทย, lit. ...

A former TRT MP from Udon Thani, Thirachai Saenkaew, called for the junta to allow party-leader Thaksin Shinawatra to contest the next election. Thirachai claimed that TRT supporters wanted Thaksin to return to politics after the political reform.^[126]

Former Udon Thani MP Theerachai Saenkaew said his constituents would still vote for Thaksin and his party at the next general election. "Following the normalisation of the political situation, democratic rule should move forward in accordance with the voice of the people," Theerachai said.^[127]

Former Sakon Nakhon MP Chalermchai Ulankul a member of a faction allied with Suchart Tancharoen, a key TRT figure said he and others might be unemployed for about a year. However, he said his group was "firm" and preparing to run in the election next year. "As long as the Thai Rak Thai Party is not dissolved, we can't say we will move to be under any other party. However, I don't know who will continue the TRT."^[125]

Nearly two weeks after the coup, TRT's deputy leader Sonthaya Kuenpluem and his 20-member faction resigned from the party. Somsak Thepsuthin, another TRT's deputy leader said he and his Wan Nam Yom faction which has about 80 members would also submit their resignation. The move comes after the CDR issued an order banning from political activities for five years all executive members of a party that has been dissolved. TRT is currently under investigation and could be dissolved for hiring smaller party during the April 2006 election.^[128]

On tuesday 2 October ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and former Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusipitak resigned from Thai Rak Thai Party.^[129][130]

Reactions from grass-root supporters who lack political organisation have been muted. A woman who benefited from Thaksin populist policies said "He gave me a chance to keep my daughter alive. He gave us food when we were in need. Now that he's been chased out, the poor have lost their closest friend.'"^[131] Thaksinomics is a term used to refer to the economic policies of Thaksin Shinawatra, Prime Minister of Thailand since 2001. ...

Public support

Main article: Public support for the 2006 Thailand coup d'état

Food given by supporters of the coup stacking up near an armoured vehicle.

On Wednesday, 20 September 2006, Suan Dusit Rajabhat University published the result of a poll of 2019 people. The results are that 84% support the coup d'état, and 75% believe the coup will "improve politics". Only 5% believe the coup will make politics worse.^[132][133] This should be contrasted with a nationwide poll taken in July that found that 49% of the people would vote for Thaksin's party in the now-cancelled October election.^[134] Starting Thursday 21 September, the junta ordered the media to stop publicizing the results of public opinion against the coup, which presumably includes public opinion polls.

There were widespread displays of public kindness to soldier controling positions throughout Bangkok. People brought food, drinks, and flowers to troops, and often posed for pictures next to soliders and tanks. The area in front of the Royal Plaza was particularly popular, with a large crowd and food vendors surrounding the many M-41/A tanks concetrated there. Some schools took students on tours of the area.^[135]

Soldier asking the crowd to move back as people wait to have picture of their children taken with him.

Soldiers were heartened by warm public response. A soldier who agreed with the coup although he said it wasn't democratic said "I talked to people protesting against Thaksin Shinawatra who said they could do anything and would sacrifice their lives. If that happened - and officers had to suppress the chaos - the loss would be greater". He added "We have our own democracy. We are all under His Majesty the King and people still have faith in the monarch. The military has a duty to protect the country, the religion and the King."^[136]

A group of lecturers and students from Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon briefly held a rally in front of Army headquarters to urge their their counterparts from Chulalongkorn and Thammasat Universities not to be opposed to the coup.^[137] Many students from Chulalongkorn University also supported the coup.^[138] Chulalongkorn University is the oldest university in Thailand and has long been considered to be the countrys most prestigious university. ... Thammasat University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), formerly known as the University of Moral and Political Science (มหาวิทยาลัยวิชาธรรมศาสตร์และการเมือง), is the second oldest university in Thailand and is often considered to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. ...

The Campaign for Popular Democracy, which coordinates 32 civic groups, 6 universities and 169 NGOs, came out in support of the coup, as did several politicians, including former Senator Kraisak Choonhavan. Kraisak, who's father Chatichai Choonhavan had been deposed by a coup in 1991, said, "This is the first coup where I don’t have to watch my back."^{[139][140][141]} General Chatichai Choonhavan (5 April 1920—6 May 1998) was the Prime Minister of Thailand from 1988–1991. ...

A demonstration also occurred in front of the UN Building in New York City in support of the coup.^[142] United Nations headquarters, view from East River United Nations headquarters in New York City The United Nations headquarters is a distinctive complex in New York City that has served as the United Nationss headquarters since its completion in 1952. ...

Public disapproval

Main article: Public disapproval and protest of the 2006 Thailand coup d'état

Former prime minister Chuan Leekpai said of the events, "As politicians, we do not support any kind of coup, but during the past five years, the government of Thaksin created several conditions that forced the military to stage the coup. Thaksin has caused the crisis in the country."^[143] Chuan Leekpai on the cover of Asiaweek magazine Chuan Leekpai (Thai: ชวน หลีกภัย, Chinese: 川呂沛; pinyin: Chuān Lǚpèi; born July 28, 1938 in Trang) was the Prime Minister of Thailand from September 23, 1992 to May 24, 1995 and again from November 9, 1997 to February 9, 2001. ...

Anand Panyarachun, one of Thailand's most respected intellectuals, head of drafting committee of the 1997 Constitution, and former coup-installed Prime Minister, noted his criticism of the coup in an interview with the Far Eastern Economic Review.^[144] Anand Panyarachun (born August 9, 1932) was Thailands Prime Minister twice, between 1991-1992 and once again in 1992. ... Wikipedia does not yet have an article with this exact name. ... Far Eastern Economic Reviews cover for September issue in 2005 Far Eastern Economic Review (Chinese: 遠東經濟評論) (also referred to as FEER) is an unique Asian news magazine written in the English language since it was founded and developed entirely in Asia. ...

You have to remember that since 1992, we have had four general elections; we had peaceful transfers of power; we had governments who served full four-year terms. The military in 1992 had gone back to the barracks, and up to a few months ago there were no speculations and rumors about a possible coup. The armed forces, particularly the army, had gone back to the barracks and had become real professional soldiers. So to me what happened must be considered to be an extremely unfortunate dead-end street. So let’s hope that there will be a new civilian government, fully engaged in some of the reform measures, including the revision of the present Constitution.[145]

However, Anand later qualified his disapproval, by noting that "A coup d'etat has a different meaning in the Thai context," and blaming the coup on Thaksin, "Over the past five years Thaksin and his party have become too powerful. They have consolidated their hold over the government machinery and certain sectors of the armed forces and parliament. So I think it's a more precarious situation."^[146] Image File history File links Cquote1. ... Image File history File links Cquote2. ...

Other prominent academics also voiced disapproval of the coup, including Pasuk Pongpaijitr, Chaiwat Satha-anand, and Giles Ungphakorn.

Leader of the Democrat Party Abhisit Vejjajiva voiced displeasure at the coup hours just before all political activities were banned: This article is part of or related to the Liberalism series Categories: Politics stubs | Liberal related stubs | Liberal parties | Thai political parties ... Abhisit Vejjajiva is a Thai politician. ...

We cannot and do not support any kind of extra-constitutional change, but it's done. The country has to move forward and the best way forward is for the coup leaders to quickly return power to the people and carry out reforms they promised. They have to prove themselves. I urge them to lift all restrictions as soon as possible. There is no need to write a brand new constitution. They could make changes to the 1997 constitution and if that's the case, there is no reason to take a year. Six months is a good time.[147]

Other Democrat Party leaders, like Chuan Leekpai and Korn Chatikavanij expressed displeasure over the coup, but blamed Thaksin.^[148][149] Image File history File links Cquote1. ... Image File history File links Cquote2. ... Chuan Leekpai on the cover of Asiaweek magazine Chuan Leekpai (Thai: ชวน หลีกภัย, Chinese: 川呂沛; pinyin: Chuān Lǚpèi; born July 28, 1938 in Trang) was the Prime Minister of Thailand from September 23, 1992 to May 24, 1995 and again from November 9, 1997 to February 9, 2001. ...

Several student groups also stated disapproval at the coup. Signs were set up and demonstrations organized to protest it. However, there no unified multi-university statement of disapproval was made.

Reports on the numbers, extent and nature of public demonstrations againt the coup and the military government are often contingent on national medias whose freedom of speech is limited by the censure imposed by the CDRM. Organised local opposition to the coup was muted by a junta ban against assemblies of more than 5 people. International protests against the coup were scattered, with a group of anti-coup demonstrators claiming to have protested in front of the Thai Consulate in New York City.^[150] Nickname: Big Apple Location in the state of New York Coordinates: Country United States State New York Boroughs Bronx (The Bronx) New York (Manhattan) Queens (Queens) Kings (Brooklyn) Richmond (Staten Island) Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R) Area    - City 1,214. ...

Hunger striker Thawee Kraikup before his arrest

Image File history File links ThaweeHungerStrike. ... Image File history File links ThaweeHungerStrike. ... A hunger strike is a method of non-violent resistance in which participants fast as an act of political protest or to achieve a goal such as a policy change. ...

Democracy Monument, 20 September

Activist Chalard Worachat and former MP Thawee Kraikup held a protest against the junta at the Democracy Monument the day after the coup. Thawee held up a sign saying "Fasting in Protest Against the Destroyer of Democracy." Military forces arrived soon afterwards and arrested Chalard at 12.30.^[151] Thawee refused to stop his protest and was arrested 3 hours later. Their fate is not known. Chalard Worachat (Thai: ) is a Thai activist. ... The Democracy Monument, Bangkok The Democracy Monument (in Thai: Anusawari Prachathipatai) is a public monument in the centre of Bangkok, capital of Thailand. ... A hunger strike is a method of non-violent resistance in which participants fast as an act of political protest or to achieve a goal such as a policy change. ...

Siam Center, 22 September

A group of protesters at Siam Square, 22 Sep. 2006

The first public protest after the coup attracted between 20 and 100 protesters in front of Siam Center on the evening of Friday 22 September 2006.^{[152][153][154][155][156][157]} Nobody was arrested but police recorded the protest on video and noted that the tape would be examined to determine if protestors broke martial law. It is unknown whether the police or junta will arrest those it had recorded.^[158] Demonstrators wore black to mourn the death of democracy, and urged people who opposed the coup to also wear black.^[159] Protestor Giles Ungphakorn noted, "We believe we speak for a significant number of Thais who are too worried or too afraid to speak." The protest was not reported on Thai television channels.The Independent reported that when the first protestor, a female student, began reading out a statement, armed police forced their way through the crowd and grabbed her. A police officer jabbed a gun into her stomach and tell her: "You're coming with us." The protesters tried to hold the woman back, but her fate is unknown.^[160] Siam Center and Siam Discovery Center are twin shopping malls in Pathum Wan district, Bangkok. ... The Independent is a British compact newspaper published by Tony OReillys Independent News & Media. ...

Thammasat University, 25 September

The second public protest against the coup occurred on Monday 25 September 2006 attracted between 50-60 protestors and 200 spectators. It was held at 5pm at Thammasat University. The protest included a political discussion on "Why we must resist the coup", and was organized by the "Dome Daeng" group of Thammasat University, the "Chula Students for Liberty" group, and students from Mahidol, Ramkhamhaeng and Kasetsart universities and King Mongkut's Institute of Technology. "The choice in our world is not just between Thaksin or tanks," said Arunwana Sanitkawathee, a protesting Thammasat journalism student.^[161] The one-hour rally featured a banner mocking the "Council of Demented and Ridiculous Military". There were no uniformed police, but several intelligence officers were present and recorded the event on video.^[162][163] September 25 is the 268th day of the year (269th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Thammasat University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), formerly known as the University of Moral and Political Science (มหาวิทยาลัยวิชาธรรมศาสตร์และการเมือง), is the second oldest university in Thailand and is often considered to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. ... Thammasat University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), formerly known as the University of Moral and Political Science (มหาวิทยาลัยวิชาธรรมศาสตร์และการเมือง), is the second oldest university in Thailand and is often considered to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. ... Chulalongkorn University is the oldest university in Thailand and has long been considered to be the countrys most prestigious university. ... This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... Kasetsart University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยเกษตรศาสตร์) the first agricultural university in Thailand, was established on February 2, 1943 with the prime aims in promoting subjects related to agricultural science. ... Thailand institute of technology universities The King Mongkuts Institute of Technology at Ladkrabang (KMITL) King Mongkuts Institute of Technology North Bangkok (KMITNB) King Mongkuts University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) Category: ‪Universities in Thailand‬ ... Thammasat University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), formerly known as the University of Moral and Political Science (มหาวิทยาลัยวิชาธรรมศาสตร์และการเมือง), is the second oldest university in Thailand and is often considered to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. ...

Subsequent protests

Protests were also held at Chulalongkorn University on 27 September 2006.^[164] A protest was also held in Chiang Mai on 28 September 2006.The website of Midnight University was later shut down.^[165] On 2 October 2006, several dozen students and labor representatives demonstrated in front of Army Headquarters and burned the junta's Interim Constitution.^[166] Chulalongkorn University is the oldest university in Thailand and has long been considered to be the countrys most prestigious university. ... September 27 is the 270th day of the year (271st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... A street scene in Chiang Mai, showing (centre right), a gate of the old city wall. ... September 28 is the 271st day of the year (272nd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... October 2 is the 275th day (276th in leap years) of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, with 90 days remaining. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The 2006 Interim Charter of Thailand was drafted by the Council for Democratic Reform (CDR) after it seized power from the government of Thaksin Shinawatra in the 2006 Thailand coup. ...

Violent protests

At 6 am, Saturday 30 September 2006, a taxi driver who had spray painted "[CDR is] destroying the country," and "Sacrificing life" onto his vehicle intentionally rammed it into a tank at the Royal Plaza. The driver, Nuamthong Praiwan, was severely injured and taken to a police station nearby. He later told reporters from a hospital bed that he wanted to protest the junta for damaging the country.^[167][168] September 30 is the 273rd day of the year (274th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

Petitions

An active on-line petition organized by Thongchai Winichakul, of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, was also set up at the PetitionOnline website to urge the junta not to arrest or harm protestors. Several influencial figures have signed the petition so far, including Kasian Tejapira of Thammasat University, Viroj Na Ranong of the TDRI, and Duncan McCargo of the University of Leeds.^[169] The University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public university located in Madison, Wisconsin. ... Thammasat University (Thai: มหาวิทยาลัยธรรมศาสตร์), formerly known as the University of Moral and Political Science (มหาวิทยาลัยวิชาธรรมศาสตร์และการเมือง), is the second oldest university in Thailand and is often considered to be one of the most prestigious universities in the country. ... Parkinson Building, University of Leeds The University of Leeds, England, is one of the largest universities in the United Kingdom and the most popular by applicants, with 52,444 applicants in 2003 for 7,228 places (UCAS). ...

Media

In an editorial, Bangkok's English-language broadsheet, The Nation, gave qualified support to the coup. It noted that "the likes of Thaksin should be rejected at the ballot box or through public pressure in the form of peaceful protests." However, under the circumstances in Thailand, it said the coup "may be a necessary evil."^[170] External Links: MangoDaily. ...

Bangkok Royal Thai Army

Thanaphol Eiwsakul, editor of Fah Diew Kan magazine (which had been censored by the Thaksin government), urged the public to resist the coup by exercising their right to protest coups as guaranteed by Article 65 of the 1997 Constitution. He vowed to stage a protest on Thursday, 21 September 2006.^[171] September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

The Campaign for Popular Media Reform criticized the military for media censorship stationing soliders outside media outlets. "Our standpoint is, we still believe that the military have no right, they should not give any order to shut down any media, even those [community] radio stations."^[172]

In a statement issued on 25 September the Thai Journalists Association and the Broadcast Journalists Association did not condemn the coup, nor did it protest the junta's orders restricting freedom of the press. However, it urged the junta to transfer power back to the people as soon as possible and give the promised interim government a free hand to run the country. It also urged the junta to ensure that the promised constitution gave similar rights to the abrogated 1997 People's Constitution and also to allow the public to participate in its drafting, as the 1997 Constitution was.^[173]

Human rights groups

Saneh Chamarik, chairman of the state National Human Rights Commission, stated in an interview:

I do not think [the coup] is about progression or regression [of democracy], but about problem solving.

His remark was criticized by Suwit Lertkraimethi, an organizer of the 19 September Network against Coup d'Etat, who noted, "His role is to protect human rights, but his statement showed his approval of human-rights violations." Suwit demanded Saneh's resignation from the NHRC.^[174] Image File history File links Cquote1. ... Image File history File links Cquote2. ...

The Hong Kong-based Asian Human Rights Commission was critical of the coup. "The Asian Human Rights Commission is gravely disturbed by this takeover of power. It has no place in Thailand at a time that parliamentary democracy, despite difficulties, was maturing and taking root." The Commission called on the military to appoint a caretaker civilian government swiftly and on the United Nations General Assembly to condemn the coup. Later, the Commission called for the junta to release the 4 Cabinet members who the junta had arrested and detained without charges beyong the 7-day period allowed by Thai martial law provisions.^[175] New York-based Human Rights Watch was also critical of the coup. "Thaksin's rule had seriously eroded respect for human rights in Thailand, but suspending basic rights under the constitution is not the answer," said Brad Adams, Asia director of Human Rights Watch. "Thailand needs to solve its problems through the rule of law and the people exercising their right to choose their own leaders."^[176] The Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) was founded in 1986 by a prominent group of jurists and human rights activists in Asia. ... United Nations General Assembly - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia /**/ @import /skins-1. ... Human Rights Watch Banner Human Rights Watch is a United States-based international non-governmental organization that conducts research and advocacy on human rights. ...

The Thailand Union for Civil Liberty was also critical of the coup. In a formal statement, it noted that the coup was destructive to the democratic system and would result in serious human rights infractions. The Association demanded that the junta respect human rights, involve public participation to draft a constitution that protected human rights at least as well as the abrogated 1997 Constitution, and hold speedy elections.^[177]

Amnesty International demanded that the junta must uphold human rights. "No one should be penalised for their peaceful exercise of the rights of freedom of expression, association or assembly," the London-based group said in a statement. Amnesty also called for the junta to "comply with Thailand's obligations under international human rights law."^[178] Amnesty International (commonly known as Amnesty or AI) is an non-governmental membership organization with the stated purpose of campaigning for internationally recognized human rights. ...

On Monday 25 september, 20 academics and human right activists submitted a petition to the junta to request that they cancel restrictions that violate basic human rights. They also called for all sectors of the public to take part in the drafting of a new constitution.^[179]

Southern border provinces

Main article: South Thailand insurgency

Thailand's southern Muslims, who widely despised ousted Premier Thaksin Shinawatra, said they hoped Muslim Army Commander and junta head General Sonthi Boonyaratglin would hold peace talks with separatist insurgents. Before the coup, Sonthi had suggested negotiations with insurgents, to much government criticism. However, up until 16 September, the Army admitted it didn't know who to negotiate with.^[180] Flag of Pattani Raya, a symbol of Pattani separatism The South Thailand insurgency is a separatist campaign centered in the Pattani region, three southern provinces of Thailand, with violence increasingly spilling over into neighbouring provinces and threatening to extend up to the national capital in Bangkok. ... General Sonthi Boonyaratglin (Thai: ; first name also spelled Sondhi; last name also spelled Boonyaratkalin or Boonyarakarin) is Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. ...

After a brief lull, violence resumed 2 days after the coup, when two villagers were shot in Yala. On 23 September, 4 policemen were injured in a bus stop bombing on a road to be travelled by Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn later that afternoon. Then on 25 September, 2 police stations and a military outpost were attacked by 30 gunmen in a coordinated series of attacks.^{[181][182][183][184]} HRH Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn of Thailand Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn (born July 28, 1952) is the only son of Bhumibol Adulyadej, King (Rama IX) of Thailand, and Queen Sirikit. ...

Karen refugees Myanmar/Thailand border

The secretary-general of the insurgent Karen Nation Union Mahn Sha told The Irrawaddy that he believed Surayud will honor his word to return power to the people, and steer the country in the right direction. Many Burmese refugees will have fond memory of Surayud who, as army chief under Chuan Leekpai’s Democrat government in 1998, endorsed a policy of not pushing back refugees who fled from war and persecution in Burma. “He understands the nature of democratic groups,” Mahn Sha said. The Karen leader thought that "[Surayud ] was highly regarded among other Burmese pro-democracy groups because of his integrity and professionalism in the army";"He is a good soldier who sympathizes with refugees from Burma,” said Mahn Sha adding hoping that Surayud would not have a “one sided view” towards Burmese politics not based on business considerations.^[185]

International reactions

Main article: International reactions to the 2006 Thailand coup d'état

Diplomatic reactions

The reactions to the coup outside of Thailand have generally been negative. The United States said "There's no justification for a military coup in Thailand or in anyplace else, and we certainly are extremely disappointed by this action."^[186] It later noted that it would like to see elections held earlier than the one-year timetable set by the coup leaders.^[187] The United States later cut off $24 million in military aid although funding for humanitarian purposes would continue.^[188]

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan noted that "I don't have the details but this is not a practice to be encouraged." He also said, "As the African Union, for example, has indicated, they do not support those who come to power through the barrel of a gun."^[189] The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights later noted that the coup contravened human rights conventions and urged the junta to "to ensure respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and reinstate the country's human rights commission."^[190] Kofi Annan, current Secretary-General of the United Nations The United Nations Secretary-General is the head of the Secretariat, one of the principal divisions of the United Nations. ... This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ... Anthem: Let Us All Unite and Celebrate Together Capital Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Membership 53 member states Official languages The languages of Africa, as well as Arabic, English, French, Portuguese and Swahili Formation - As Organisation of African Unity - As AU - May 25, 1963 - July 9, 2002 Chairman of the African Union... The purpose of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights involves the promotion and protection of human rights worldwide through direct contact with individual governments and the provision of technical assistance where appropriate. ...

A spokesman for the President of the European Council and Prime Minister of Finland, Matti Vanhanen, noted his "grave concern" and added, "It is highly regrettable that democratic institutions seem to have been taken over by military force. Prime Minister Vanhanen emphasises the need to revert to democratic order without delay."^[191] The People's Republic of China, however, wished the country "harmony and prosperity," stating that "it is Thailand's own internal affair."^[192] Presidency of the Council of the European Union refers to the responsibility of presiding over all aspects of the Council of the European Union, when exercised collectively by a government, on a pre-established rota of the member states, of the European Union. ... The Prime Minister (Finnish Pääministeri, Swedish: Statsminister) is the head of government in Finland. ... This article or section does not cite its references or sources. ...

International media responses

Several international publications condemned the coup. The Economist noted that the coup would not solve any problems, that its purpose was to prevent an election victory by the Thai Rak Thai party, and that it undid a decade's worth of democratic progress. It also noted how the general lack of international condemnation for the coup might embold military leaders or reinforce authoritative tendancies in neighbouring countries.^[193] The New York Times also criticized the coup, noting that Thailand, a former exemplary leader of democracy, was now sidestepping constitutional processes to achieve political ends.^[194] The Economist is a weekly news and international affairs publication of The Economist Newspaper Ltd edited in London, UK. It has been in continuous publication since September 1843. ... The New York Times is an internationally known daily newspaper published in New York City and distributed in the United States and many other nations worldwide. ...

Economic consequences

Main article: Economic consequences of the 2006 Thailand coup d'état

Stock Exchange

Thai stocks fell to two-month lows before recovering in the first day of trading since a military coup ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Shares of Shin Corp., linked to Thaksin, and its units declined. The SET Index dropped 9.99, or 1.4 percent, to 692.57 at the 4:30 p.m. close in Bangkok. About six stocks fell for every one that rose at the exchange, with 43 billion baht ($1.1 billion) changing hands. That was the most since 51 billion baht in shares traded on April 5, the day after Thaksin said he would step down to end a political crisis. The SET rose 3.1 percent that day. Shin Corporation (SET: SHIN; NASDAQ: SHNZY; NASDAQ: SHNVF; NASDAQ: SHNUF) is the largest conglomerate in Thailand. ... The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) is the national stock exchange of Thailand. ... The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) is the national stock exchange of Thailand. ...

The SET Index fell 29.64 points, or 4.2 % to 702.63 in the first minutes of trading Thursday to its lowest intraday level since July 21.^[195] But quickly bounced back, suggesting the coup would do no greater damage. Merrill Lynch said "This time investors should be encouraged by the fact that the uncertainty surrounding Thaksin's tenure has been removed." and kept its "overweight" rating on Thai stocks. Foreign Institutions with JPM leading is net buy 7,393 million baht ($200 million) in this day. After the previous coup, in February 1991, the SET tumbled 7.3% on the first day of trading before rallying 24% in the next two months.^[196] The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) is the national stock exchange of Thailand. ... Merrill Lynch & Co. ... The National Peace Keeping Council (NPKC, Thai: คณะรักษาความสงบเรียบร้อยแห่งชาติ) was a Thai military junta that overthrew the the civilian elected government of Chatichai Choonhavan in 1991. ... The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) is the national stock exchange of Thailand. ...

Currency

The Thai baht loss the biggest loss in almost three years after the military seized control of Bangkok and Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra declared a state of emergency. The baht fell 1.3 percent to 37.77 per dollar at 5:06 p.m. in New York, from 37.29 late on Sept. 18, the biggest decline since Oct. 14, 2003. The baht trimmed losses after falling by as much as 1.8 percent on speculation King Bhumibol Adulyadej will resolve the crisis.^[197] Thai banknotes and coins. ... Bhumibol Adulyadej (Thai: ; IPA: ; Royal Institute: Phumiphon Adunyadet;  ) (born December 5, 1927), officially styled the Great (Thai: มหาราช, Maharaja) and also known as Rama IX, is the current King of Thailand. ...

And then rebounded in the following day as investors bet this week's coup will break a political deadlock that has stalled public works spending. The currency rose the most in more than eight months after army chief Sondhi Boonyarataklin took power without bloodshed and pledged to hold elections in October 2007. The baht rose 1 percent to 37.38 per dollar at 2:30 p.m. in Bangkok. "This represents a buying opportunity as it removes the political roadblock from the economy," said Richard Yetsenga, a currency strategist at HSBC Holdings Plc in Hong Kong. "The coup is as calm as you could possibly expect." and expects the currency to reach 37 by year-end.^[198] HSBC Holdings plc (LSE: HSBA, SEHK: 005, NYSE: HBC, Euronext: HSBC, BSX: 1077223879) is one of the largest banking groups in the world, ranked the fifth-largest company and third-largest banking company in the world in Forbes Global 2000. ...

Trade

The coup's impact on negotiations for a US-Thailand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States are not immediately clear, but Washington still hopes to secure a pact when democracy is restored, a top US trade official said yesterday.US Trade Representative Susan Schwab said "Formal negotiations were suspended pending the elections that had been anticipated later this year and we had assumed that the formal negotiations would resume in December".^[199] FTA may stand for: FTA Free Trade Agreement, see free trade, or Trade bloc for a list of FTAs FTA Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement Free trade area FTAA Free Trade Area of the Americas Failure to appear, legal term Fundamental theorem of algebra, mathematical term Free-to-air... Susan C. Schwab is currently Acting United States Trade Representative. ...

Credit ratings

Thailand's bond ratings are currently unchanged, but credit rating agencies have announced that they may downgrade them depending on future developments.^[200]

References

September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the U.S publication. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the U.S publication. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the U.S publication. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Bangkok Post is one of three daily English-language newspapers published in Bangkok, Thailand. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the U.S publication. ... September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the U.S publication. ... September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the U.S publication. ... September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the U.S publication. ... August 25 is the 237th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar (238th in leap years), with 128 days remaining. ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Bangkok Post is one of three daily English-language newspapers published in Bangkok, Thailand. ... September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is about the U.S publication. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The British Broadcasting Corporation, invariably known as the BBC (and also informally known as the Beeb or Auntie) is the largest public broadcasting corporation in the world. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... The Australian (informally referred to as The Oz) is a national daily broadsheet newspaper published by Rupert Murdochs News Corporation. ... September 21 is the 264th day of the year (265th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Fox News Channels slogan is We Report, You Decide The Fox News Channel is a U.S. cable and satellite news channel. ... This article is about the U.S publication. ... September 20 is the 263rd day of the year (264th in leap years). ... 2006 (MMVI) is a common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. ...

See also

• History of Thailand since 1973
• Constitution of Thailand
• Media in Thailand
• Censorship in Thailand
• Politics of Thailand
• Royal Thai Army

The history of Thailand since 1973 has been marked by a struggle to define the political contours of the state. ... The Democracy Monument: a representation of the 1932 Constitution sits on top of two golden offering bowls above a turret, in a traffic circle in the center of Bangkok. ... Thailand has a well-developed media sector, especially by Southeast Asian standards. ... Freedom of speech in Thailand is guaranteed in the articles 39, 40, 41 in the 1997 Constitution. ... Thailand had been ruled by kings since the 13th century. ... The Royal Thai Army is the army of Thailand. ...

External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to:

2006 Thailand coup d'état

• The Official Website of the Council for Democratic Reform. Most of the content is in Thai; there is a limited English language section. The site contains all of the juntas announcements and decrees.
• (Thai) Coup declaration video from YouTube (original version)
• (Thai) (English) Coup declaration video from YouTube (including paraphrased English subtitles)
• (Thai) A Collection of Photos from the Royal Thai Navy's webboard
• (English) News articles related to Thai Coup 2006
• (English) The latest news on the Thai Coup 2006
• (English) A Bloodless Coup d'Etat for Thailand
• (English) Bad Excuses for the Coup, by Thongchai Winichakul of the University of Wisconsin-Madison
• (English) NewMandala, some good up-to-date commentary on the coup and Thaksin.

Image File history File links Commons-logo. ... Wikimedia Commons logo by Reid Beels The Wikimedia Commons (also called Commons or Wikicommons) is a repository of free content images, sound and other multimedia files. ... A Paraphrase is a statement or remark explained in other words or another way, so as to simplify or clarify its meaning. ... The University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public university located in Madison, Wisconsin. ...