Thai Anti-coup activists turn down offer to meet CNS and Gov't

Thai Anti-coup activists have issued a statement, saying its members would not meet with the coup leaders of the Council for National Security (CNS) nor the prime minister, but would press ahead with a major rally against the coup on Dec. 10, The Thai News Agency reported Sunday.

The September 19 Network argued that such a meeting would amount to condoning the so-called "illegitimate power".

It said it would fight a dictatorship rule to the end and would hold a mass protest against the coup, the government and its military backers on December 10 Bangkok's Sanam Luang as planned.

The activists call for the restoration of the 1997 constitution and an early return to civilian rule.

CNS chief Gen Sonthi Boonyaratkalin said earlier he would welcome talks with the group to help settle differences in an amicable manner.

Similarly, Prime Minister Gen Surayud Chulanont had expressed a wish to have a dialogue with the group.

The network, however, insisted on restoring democracy by resurrecting the previous constitution, holding a general election and reforming politics after the election is over.

Source: Xinhua