Sapae-ing established a leading Islamic school and became a folkloric figure for many Malay-Muslims in Thailand's culturally distinct far south despite being in self-exile since 2004. Mosques have been packed across the south for special prayers since his death was confirmed. In the Malay-speaking south, for example, Thai language and script has been enforced for decades, fuelling anger and resentment. An end to the fighting remains distant despite peace contacts. The Thai junta remain coy on ceding powers and do not believe the rebel groups they have command-and-control over the militant foot soliders.

Source: The Nation Bangkok January 18, 2017 06:12 UTC