Thaksin apologises for 2004 Tak Bai massacre amid bombings
Thaksin Shinawatra has issued an apology regarding the tragic events of the Tak Bai massacre in Narathiwat province, which took place in 2004 under his leadership. The former Thailand PM acknowledged procedural errors during his tenure and expressed remorse to the Muslim community.
Thaksin stated his deep concern for the citizens during his time as PM, admitting that mistakes were made.
“If I made any mistakes that upset you, I apologise. Muslims are taught to love peace and forgive, so I would like to apologise for the mistake.”
On October 25, 2004, seven Muslim demonstrators lost their lives during a protest at the Tak Bai Police Station in Narathiwat province. Subsequently, 78 more perished from suffocation or organ failure while being transported in trucks to a military camp in Pattani province, approximately 150 kilometres away. The demonstrators had been calling for the release of six detainees before the incident.
The events of the tragedy were a major talking point during last year’s election, coinciding with the expiration of the 20-year statute of limitations and a lawsuit being filed with the Narathiwat provincial court against nine former top officials, accusing them of murder and other crimes.
The 75 year old former Thai PM’s comments followed a series of bombings in Yala province on the night of February 22 and at Narathiwat Airport yesterday morning, coinciding with his plane’s arrival.
Thaksin noted that his reception in the southern border provinces was notably warmer than two decades ago, perceiving the change in attitude as a promising sign for resolving regional issues.
Thaksin was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong during his visit to Narathiwat. This marked his first visit to the Deep South in approximately two decades.
The bombing in Yala claimed one life and injured patrolling police officers along with four other civilians. Separately in Narathiwat, a bomb detonated on a firefighters’ pickup truck parked near the air traffic control tower at Narathiwat airport in Mueang district, just before Thaksin’s arrival.
Latest Thailand News
