"Thaksin should no longer return to Thailand," said PAD leader Sondhi Limthongkul. "He should stay abroad because while he's away, things are rather peaceful here."

Sondhi said he does not mind who Thaksin picks as the new Thai Rak Thai Party leader as long as Thaksin himself is out of politics - and out of the kingdom.

"Thaksin may bring Khun Boonchoo, his servant, to be the new leader and that's Thaksin's affair, as long as he's no longer in politics,"  Sindhi said.

The new schedule for the mass protest reflects the PAD's wish to mount further pressure on Thaksin while the premier is still overseas.

The PAD leader added the mass protest might not end on Wednesday "depending on the situation and the people's wish" but promised that it will be peaceful and there would be no breaking into any government offices.

Somkiat Pongpaiboon, another PAD leader, said during the past few days while Thaksin was away, government officials have been forthcoming in exposing further details about his alleged corruption and abuse of power.

He added that some 40 alleged abuses and corruption cases would be the main topic of speeches during next week's demonstration.

"Good governance can exist if this Thai person is not around," Somkiat pointed out.

The group invited everyone who is against Thaksin to converge on Wednesday.

Pravit Rojanaphruk

The Nation