New Thai team to tackle Deep South conflict amid growing violence
A new government team dedicated to peace negotiations will be formed to address the ongoing conflict in the Deep South, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
Phumtham stated that the leader of the new team has yet to be decided. The choice could involve reappointing the previous team or opting for a new one, contingent on a comprehensive evaluation of strategies designed to resolve the long-standing insurgency.
Chatchai Bangchuad, Deputy Secretary General of the National Security Council, previously led peace talks under former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. However, following the recent appointment of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, a new negotiation team is still pending selection.
Phumtham emphasised the government’s objective to initiate discussions with all relevant parties within two weeks to form the new team, highlighting the importance of avoiding further delays. He expressed concern over the increasing violence in the area.
The defence minister also questioned the effectiveness of the current approach in guiding the country towards lasting peace, noting the need for reassessment as the conflict has lasted over 20 years without resolution. Despite earlier negotiations, a ceasefire has never been successfully achieved.
This situation raises questions about whether the political and military factions involved are genuinely aligned. If they are, a ceasefire should be feasible; otherwise, further negotiations might not yield results.
Recently, the Barisan Revolusi Nasional Melayu-Patani (BRN) rebel group criticised the government for delays in forming a new negotiation team, urging officials to show genuine commitment to peace.
The BRN released a statement expressing concern over the delay, particularly after PM Paetongtarn’s official visit to Malaysia on December 16 last year, where she met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to discuss bilateral cooperation, including efforts to establish peace in Thailand’s southern border provinces, reported Bangkok Post.
Phumtham reaffirmed the government’s dedication to addressing the challenges in the Deep South.
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