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                       Crisis Talks Continue in Thailand

   by VOA News

   Thailand's army chief is holding a second day of crisis talks Thursday
   with rival political parties, as a state of martial law continues
   across the country.

   General Prayuth Chan-Ocha declared martial law Tuesday, saying it was
   necessary to prevent violence and end a months-old political deadlock.

   A first round of talks Wednesday failed to achieve a compromise between
   the opposition and supporters of ex-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

   The army denies the martial law amounts to a coup, even though the move
   appears to have severely limited the power of the interim government.

   Despite the martial law, life continues as usual in Bangkok, though
   some residents are worried about a possible outbreak of violence.
   Mettha Nurak says she is hopeful the talks will succeed.
   "I think the meeting will produce a conclusion today, but it also
   depends on the various parties. I hope they can come to a conclusion on
   what is the way out [of the crisis] and bring it to the people," said
   Mettha.

   Thaksin's sister, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, and several
   cabinet members were ousted by the Supreme Court this month for abuse
   of power.

   A caretaker prime minister loyal to Thaksin has been named, but
   opposition protesters are demanding the entire government step aside.

   Nearly 30 people have been killed during six months of anti-government
   protests.

   Under martial law, the both pro- and anti-government demonstrators will
   not be able to leave their designated protest sites.

   The military also shut down several media outlets and warned against
   broadcasting news that will worsen tensions.

   Thailand's army, which has been traditionally on the side of the
   opposition, has staged 11 coups in the last 80 years.
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References

   1. http://www.voanews.com/content/crisis-talks-continue-in-thailand/1919959.html