Tuesday, September 2, 2008
News from Bangkok
Michal Ruth Penwell (Globalscope Thailand) wrote today to share an update about the political situation in Thailand and its effect on the team's ministry and daily lives. Thailand's Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej has declared a state of emergency in the capital city of Bangkok after clashes with the supporters of the People's
Alliance for democracy (PAD) left at least one person dead and dozens injured in the worst violence seen in Bangkok in 16 years. This situation is rooted in a bloodless coup by the military in Sept. 2006, when Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was removed from office. Thaksin and his wife were tried in Bangkok in July 2008, but fled into exile in the UK. PAD supporters say the new government is a front for Thaksin.
Meanwhile, the CMF's team's ministry activities have continued regularly and they anticipate that they will continue without problems. Living north of Bangkok has helped the team members avoid the crowds of protesters, but PAD did hold a small public meeting on the campus of the university on Monday.
"The students in the ministry are concerned about the situation, but talk very little about it," writes Michal Ruth. "Most people would rather not become involved. We feel safe and will continue to remain away from the demonstrations. We also hope that we can show an attitude of respect and peace. We do appreciate your prayers for Thailand, our ministry and our students."
Alliance for democracy (PAD) left at least one person dead and dozens injured in the worst violence seen in Bangkok in 16 years. This situation is rooted in a bloodless coup by the military in Sept. 2006, when Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was removed from office. Thaksin and his wife were tried in Bangkok in July 2008, but fled into exile in the UK. PAD supporters say the new government is a front for Thaksin.
Meanwhile, the CMF's team's ministry activities have continued regularly and they anticipate that they will continue without problems. Living north of Bangkok has helped the team members avoid the crowds of protesters, but PAD did hold a small public meeting on the campus of the university on Monday.
"The students in the ministry are concerned about the situation, but talk very little about it," writes Michal Ruth. "Most people would rather not become involved. We feel safe and will continue to remain away from the demonstrations. We also hope that we can show an attitude of respect and peace. We do appreciate your prayers for Thailand, our ministry and our students."
Labels: Campus Ministry, Thailand
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