Thailand PM vows to continue to perform duties

Bangkok, Dec 10:

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on Tuesday made a tearful plea to the protesters to stop and "use the electoral system to choose who will become the next government."

Shepledged to continue performing her duties in accordance with the constitution until a new prime minister is elected.

In a statement made after a special cabinet meeting, Shinawatra pleaded with the public to protect democracy, and urged protestors to stop the rally and to start preparing for the next general elections slated for Feb 2, 2014, Xinhua reported.

The prime minister said she had made every compromise possible, and wished to be treated fairly.

Anti-government protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban Monday asked Shinawatra and cabinet ministers to resign within 24 hours.

Suthep also called for protests for three more days.

Protestors have demanded that the incumbent government be replaced by an unelected "people's council" and an interim administration formed by non-politicians.

Thousands of protestors marched to besiege the Government House Monday. No conflicts were reported between the police and protestors.

IANS