Time to settle mine disputeNow is a critical time for the government to fight tooth and nail in the Akara gold mine case saga that was brought to an international arbitrator. If defeated, the country will have to fork out 30 billion baht in compensation as demanded by the Sydney-based firm. Some media outlets reported that Mr Suriya proposed to the cabinet in March that it settle the legal case, paying the mine operator compensation. Gen Prayut said earlier he will "take responsibility" for the legal dispute. Whether the government goes through the arbitration process or settles the case through negotiation, it should make people's livelihoods and health safety the priority.

Source: Bangkok Post September 06, 2020 23:15 UTC