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Thais Protest Against Prime Minister as Opposition Threatens Election
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Boycott
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=112078C:3919ACA Thaksin Shinawatra
is facing mounting pressure over allegations of corruption





Thai protester shows a banner during a protest against PM Shinawatra
at Sanam Luang or the Royal Field in Bangkok, February 26,
2006Thousands of Thai anti-government protesters in Bangkok are
demanding Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra step down.

The protesters gathered in Thailand's capital Sunday, displaying
banners demanding Mr. Thaksin resign.

Meanwhile, opposition parties delayed a boycott decision on snap
national elections called by the embattled leader until Monday.

Earlier Sunday, the three main opposition parties - Democrat, Chart
Thai, Mahachon - said they wanted a meeting with officials from Mr.
Thaksin's party to discuss political reforms.







Thaksin Shinawatra (file photo) The prime minister announced snap
elections for April 2 on Friday after he dissolved parliament amid
increasing demands that he resign. Some political observers have said
the move appears aimed at retaining a hold on power, since his party
commands an overwhelming majority in parliament and would be expected
to win the election.

Prime Minister Thaksin is facing mounting pressure over allegations of
corruption and his family's nearly $2 billion, tax-free stock sale of
its telecom business. Some information for this report was provided by
AFP and AP.


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