11 April 2009, 6:06 am
Clashes between protesters prompted the Thai government to postpone Saturday's planned ASEAN Summit of Asian leaders in Pattaya, Thailand.
Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva announced a state of emergency in Pattaya, Thailand, after red-shirted members of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship broke into the Royal Cliff Beach hotel where the event was being held.
Witnesses said the UDD members, who support ousted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, broke a glass window blowing whistles and horns, befor spreading into the conference venue, cheering and chanting for democracy and the resignation of Abhisit.
The red-shirts demonstrators had eailier clashed with blue-shirted counter protesters. The confrontation prevented the leaders of Japan, China and South Korea, from making their way to the summit venue.
Police also cancelled large gaterings, under the rules of State of Emergency, which resulted in the cancellation of Harmonious Wilbury's show and the grand opening of the food court.
At least the airport is open for now. Whats next for Thailand? Lets hope the tourists keep coming.
Will elections ever matter in Thailand? Sure beats the rule of the Mob. Stay tuned.
A warm welcome indeed.
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