Steve Manoon
The Nation
Opinion
Dear Sir: I would like to make the following points regarding the Thai-Cambodian conflict:
The conflict needs to be resolved through proper strategies. Until the land is clearly defined as to its “owner”, both sides should move out. The space would also serve as a buffer zone until the land is designated to the rightful owner. This includes military forces of both countries moving out.
Both Thailand and Cambodia should approach the International Court to resolve their disagreements. The case culminating in the 1962 verdict of the International Court, granting Preah Vihear temple to Cambodia should also be reopened since there are several legal loopholes in the trial and verdict. This includes an examination of the original agreement made by Thailand (Siam) and France in 1904 and the subsequent altered form of 1907.
The MoU 2000 agreement has to be annulled. The act is against the Constitution – the 1997 Constitution. It specified that all agreements involving the borders of the nation first be passed through Parliament. It then also has to have the support of the majority of Thais. Neither act was fulfilled. The MoU, therefore, is illegal and unconstitutional.
However, this is what the government of Thailand is doing instead:
- It is requesting all Thais move out of the disputed area, but allows Cambodians to remain.
- It is enforcing no structures be built on the disputed land, but allows Cambodia to do so.
- It continues to make agreements with Cambodia without involving the Thai public.
While the Cambodians arrest Thais who venture into the disputed area, this government does not similarly arrest Cambodians who enter the area.
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