Bad time for Thai tourism industry as majority of european tourists refrain to visit countries under Army rules
Bangkok: Military clamps martial law in Thailand aims to restore peace and order. Announcing Martial Law on military run television Army chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha at 3:00 a.m. local time guaranteed the public that even though soldiers will now be in command of public security, order will rule the day.
The news that Military clamps martial law in Thailand aims to restore peace and order is quite expected news for political observers of the region. Thailand had been in the grip of demonstrations since November 2013 and many people were killed in this political standoff. The situation became grave in May, when Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra was forced to leave her office. Her ouster made way for sitting Prime Minister Niwatthamrong Boonsongphaisan, who said Monday that his administration would not step down.
The opposition demands that the government give way to an unelected administration that would then rewrite the constitution.
In his speech Army Chief said:
“We are concerned this violence could harm the country’s security in general. Then, in order to restore law and order to the country, we have declared martial law. I’m asking all those activist groups to stop all activities and cooperate with us in seeking a way out of this crisis.”
Thailand is a popular tourism destination and its economy depends on tourist money. Last six months were very bad for tourism industry of Thailand due to unrest in the country. Now Martial Law is clamp and majority of european tourists do not visit country where Army rules the country. This situation will dent tourism industry of Thailand that is already facing many challenges.
Room rate has already down in Bangkok and tourists who are visiting this city plan short haul tour instead of long haul. Tourism experts believe that industry will face more jolted in forthcoming summer season.
