New facilitator boosts Thai-BRN peace talk optimism

Peace talks between the Thai government and the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) separatist movement are expected to yield positive outcomes with the appointment of a new talks facilitator.

This optimism stems from the recent designation of Datuk Mohd Rabin Bin Basir, former Director-General of Malaysia’s National Security Council, as the new mediator by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. He replaces Gen Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Zulkiflei Mohd Zin, who was reportedly seen as too rigid and ineffective in progressing the talks.

Chatchai Bangchuad, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Security Council (NSC) and head of the government’s peace negotiation team expressed confidence in the new facilitator’s approach. Chatchai highlighted Mohd Rabin’s open-mindedness, flexibility, and determination as key factors that could drive the success of the negotiations.

“I have met with Mohd Rabin and discussed plans for the upcoming peace talks. He shows strong determination to make the negotiations successful and is keen to make the talks productive.”

Mohd Rabin has suggested that the Thai negotiation team engage more deeply with the BRN to ensure the conversations lead to genuine peace and positive results. This new direction is seen as a promising step toward resolving the long-standing conflict.

Chatchai also reported a positive discussion with Major General Pramote Prom-in, a deputy commander of the 4th Army and deputy director of Isoc’s Region 4 Forward Command, during a meeting in Malaysia. The talks, held from July 21 to 23, were described as constructive, with both parties setting a clear framework for the Joint Comprehensive Plan towards Peace (JCPP).

The JCPP, previously agreed upon by both parties, faced opposition from the BRN later. However, Chatchai emphasised that the framework would initially include mutually agreed-upon points, while contentious issues would be addressed subsequently.

“Therefore, we will first include what we can both agree on in the framework. As for matters which we still disagree on, they will be discussed later.”

Thailand remains united

Addressing concerns about potential territorial separation, Chatchai firmly stated that the talks would remain within the constitutional bounds, which assert that Thailand is an indivisible kingdom.

“I have been working in the field of national security for over 30 years. There is no way I will allow territorial separation to happen.”

When questioned about granting special administrative status to the three southernmost border provinces of Yala, Narathiwat, and Pattani, Chatchai downplayed the necessity. He pointed out that local administrative organisations are predominantly led by local Muslims, implying that current governance structures are adequate.

Violence in the region persists due to the BRN’s dissatisfaction with ongoing military operations, which sometimes result in arrests and deaths. However, Chatchai stressed the need for these operations under the law.

Regarding the authenticity of the BRN negotiators, Chatchai confirmed their legitimacy, noting that their identities were verified and they were chosen by the Malaysian government to participate in the peace dialogue.

Chatchai also highlighted the importance of frequent meetings between Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and his Malaysian counterpart, Anwar Ibrahim, for the peace talks. The two leaders are set to meet again tomorrow in Narathiwat’s Sungai Kolok district, with Srettha scheduled to cross into the Malaysian state of Kelantan for lunch with Anwar.

He noted that the Thai premier prioritised the peace talks, visits to the southern region, and discussions with Anwar, which is expected to accelerate progress.

Chatchai concluded by expressing optimism about Mohd Rabin’s direct reporting to the Malaysian prime minister, which he believes will expedite the peace process, reported Bangkok Post.