Time for Thailand to pick up the pieces

For 72 hours, Bangkok was turned into a battleground for thousands of anti-government protesters, soldiers and police. Fortunately, the riots were brought under control on the third day without causing too many casualties. Skirmishes occurred between security forces and protesters that injured more than 120 people. Two people died from gunshots that came from squabbling between the anti-government protesters and local residents.

The non-violent measures and soft approach adopted by the government under Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva won kudos for the young leaders and security forces. It was a far cry from the past when the military and police used brute force to suppress street protesters, resulting in high death tolls.

Just three days ago, Abhisit was heavily criticized for his decision to call off the Pattaya summit after the disruption by anti-government protesters, known locally as the red-shirt group, inside the summit's venue. At the time, the security forces did not show any effort to block the protesters from trespassing. Critics faulted Abhisit and his security teams for failing to take seriously the potential danger posed by the anti-government protesters. Some ventured to say that the military was no longer supporting him.