These incidents were just the most recent undue restrictions on the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association. "We are in control and are trying to apprehend perpetrators and the insurgents responsible. However police have apprehended the suspects allegedly responsible.The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's deputy permanent secretary Chakkapan Piewngam said he inspected preparations at all districts - checking ballot papers and ballot boxes so they can be distributed to polling stations early today.Chakkapan said ballot boxes used in 50 districts of Bangkok are metal boxes that are strong and durable. "Amnesty International calls on the Thai government to respect and protect human rights by creating an environment in which individuals and groups can freely and confidently share ideas and express their opinions on the upcoming referendum and any subsequent stage in its plans for political transition," the statement said. In its press statement issued on Friday, Amnesty said the referendum was taking place "against a backdrop of pervasive human rights violations that have created a chilling climate".It said Thai officials had arbitrarily arrested scores of people, had cancelled or disrupted peaceful assemblies and took a television station off the air in recent weeks.

Source: The Nation Bangkok August 06, 2016 17:26 UTC