Thaksin not to return early due to safety concerns

Source: Xinhuanet | 06-14-2007 13:44

BANGKOK, June 14 (Xinhua) -- Noppadon Pattama, legal adviser of Thailand's former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, said Thursday the deposed prime minister will not return to Thailand to defend frozen assets this month for safety concern.

"Everyone fears death. I fear death," Noppadon was quoted by the Bangkok Post as saying. "If the premier or the Council for National Security (CNS) do not guarantee his safety, then I think he should not come back now."

Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont gave a green light for him to return to the country for the first time on Tuesday. He has previously maintained it would be best if he just stayed away.

However, CNS chairman Sonthi Boonyaratkalin said Wednesday Thaksin can return but his safety cannot be assured. "There are those who adore him and there are also many who dislike him. It is unnecessary for him to put himself in danger," Sonthi said.

Noppadon said early this week that the deposed premier would return early to defend his assets frozen on Monday by the Assets Examination Committee.

Editor:Du Xiaodan