BANGKOK, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Thailand's Council for National Security has said it is willing to repeal martial law in 48 provinces while retaining military control in 28 provinces.
The council said the final decision on whether to repeal martial law in those provinces lies with the prime minister and the cabinet, The Bangkok Post reported Tuesday.
A source within the military said under the CNS plan, martial law would remain in place in Bangkok, southern provinces where violence is ongoing and provinces that remain loyal to former Thai Rak Thai Party members.
The source said Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont and Defense Minister Boonrawd Somtas have received the details of the plan and the Cabinet was expected to discuss it Tuesday.
Army Gen. Sonthi Boonyaratkalin, chairman of the CNS, said military rule would only be lifted in provinces that do not border other countries. However, Sonthi said martial law may be lifted in the remaining 28 provinces if the prime minister and Cabinet decide it is no longer necessary.
