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Thailand faces further political uncertainty after the army announced the introduction of martial law “to preserve law and order”.
The military measure came as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) prepared to launch a range of tactical campaigns aimed at Europe and the Middle East “to retain tourists’ confidence and ensure the growth of the country’s tourism industry, as part of the plans to combat recent challenges and setbacks”.
The surprise move by the army grants the military wide-ranging powers to enforce its decision. The army insisted that its assumption of responsibility for national security was not a coup.
However, the chief security advisor to the interim prime minister said the government had not been consulted about the army’s decision, the BBC reported.
“Everything is normal except the military is responsible for all national security issues,” said Paradorn Pattanatabut.
An army spokesman said that the imposition of martial law would have no impact on the caretaker government which remains in office.
A court ordered prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra and several cabinet ministers to step down earlier this month.
An announcement on military-run television said that martial law had been imposed “to restore peace and order for people from all sides”.
“The public do not need to panic but can still live their lives as normal,” it said.
Troops have taken steps to stop pro-government red-shirt supporters from gathering at their usual rallying-place outside Bangkok.
TAT governor Thawatchai Arunyik said: “During the beginning of this year, Thailand faced several volatile factors including the ongoing domestic political situation, but we are pleased to see that the overall European market remained strong and positive, although the Middle East market turned quite stagnant.
“Given the results, we recognise the need for us to be even more proactive in our strategies and activities to make sure that Thailand remains a must-visit destination among travellers from these two markets, as well as other markets.
“To attract more visitors from Europe, TAT will join hands with airlines and tour operators in launching special promotional tour packages as well as cooperate with online travel agents in introducing tactical campaigns via digital platforms.
“Also, we will be staging Amazing Thailand roadshows in various European countries as well as expanding the Thailand Fan Club network through a range of proactive customer relationships management activities.”
The number of travellers from Europe to Thailand in the first four months of the year rose by 7.63% to a total of 2.7 million. Russia contributed the highest number, totalling 823,233 visitors – up 12.32% – followed by the UK at 341,448, a rise of 5.75%.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: “On the morning of 20 May the Thai army chief declared martial law across the whole of Thailand.
“There is increased military presence in Bangkok and neighbouring provinces with some roadblocks.
“You should allow extra time for journeys, including to the Bankgok airports.”
Bangkok-based Diethelm Travel said: “The army has insisted that its declaration of martial law is not a coup and is urging the public to go on with their daily lives.
“They stated that they want to preserve law and order in a more efficient way after the months long political crisis.”
However, the company continues to advise all visitors to Bangkok to avoid protest sites and surrounding areas, political rallies and marches.
“All beach resorts and other destinations within Thailand have not been affected by the political situation and the airports and other transportation systems are running as normal.” Diethelm said.