Somchai appeals for unity and reconciliation

Somchai Wongsawat is a 61-year-old former judge whose appointment as the new Prime Minister of Thailand was formally endorsed by King Bhumibol Adulyadej following Wednesday’s vote in Parliament.

Wearing a white ceremonial uniform, Somchai appealed for unity and reconciliation in his inaugural speech Thursday. “I want Thai brothers and sisters to rethink the importance our brotherhood, nationhood, unity and our advancement,” Somchai said. “We should turn to one another to reconcile, compromise and forgive.”

However, the protestors continue their siege claiming that Somchai is the brother-in-law of disgraced former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and that should disqualify him from holding the top office. Protest leaders say that any member of the People’s Power Party, which is full of Thaksin allies, is unacceptable as prime minister.

Somchai did not elaborate on what his government plans to do regarding the thousands of anti-government protesters occupying the grounds of his office. Somchai has set up a temporary office at Bangkok’s old international airport, sending the message to protesters camped at Government House since Aug. 26 that his approach will not be confrontational.