Thailand declares state of emergency
Tuesday, 21 January 2014
Thailand's government on Tuesday declared a state of emergency in Bangkok and surrounding areas to cope with protests that have stirred up violent attacks. Labour Minister Chalerm Yubumrung announced that the measure would take effect Wednesday and continue for 60 days. Protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban, in a speech to followers, questioned whether the declaration was justified, saying the demonstrators had peaceful. The official announcement of the emergency decree said the elections would proceed as planned, according to a news agency.