The Government has reaffirmed that it would do its utmost to maintain peace and order, to ensure the public’s ability to carry out their normal daily routine as much as possible, as well as to ensure safety of the public, including that of the demonstrators. The reaffirmation was made in view of the anti-government rallies, led by the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship, starting from March 12.

According to the situation update by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the police would continue to be the main agency responsible for law enforcement, assisted by military and civilian personnel, as well as community volunteers. Security officials carry only anti-riot, crowd control gears, with no firearms. Clear instructions have been given to all security agencies that officers exercise utmost restraint, and should the situation escalate, that they take a graduated response – from light to heavy measures, starting with negotiation – in accordance with internationally accepted practices, including the principle of proportionality, with due respect to human rights principles.