Bangkok : Thailand’s embattled Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra today proposed the formation of a “reform council” to placate protesters demanding her resignation, but the move was immediately rejected by the opposition. Yingluck, who has been rattled by weeks of street protests, said the body would be set up in parallel with the February 2 snap polls and will recommend political reforms and anti-corruption measures.
“It is now time to develop a mechanism to push forward and mobilise national reform,” she said in an address to the nation. “My government has listened to suggestions of several sides from the several forums and agrees that reforms are needed in the social, economic and political dimensions.”
Protest leaders immediately rejected Yingluck’s plan, saying she was “not sincere” about reforms. A spokesman for the protesters said the proposed council would be under her influence.
“It is certain that she will interfere with the proposed council,” he said. Rejecting the opposition’s claims, Yingluck insisted that her government would not get involved in the establishment of the council.
