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Published on April 11, 2008

Led by Defence Ministry permanent secretary General Winai Phattiyakul, the military leaders called on the president of the Privy Council in a well-wishing ceremony for the Songkran festival. All top commanders of the three wings of the armed forces were present.

By tradition, Prem opens his home to greet Songkran well-wishers, particularly those in the military service.

Prem's remarks on forgiveness coincided with the political tussle relating to constitutional changes.

The top brass later joined the well-wishing ceremony for Prime Minister and Defence Minister Samak Sundaravej at Government House to mark the Songkran festival.

Samak called for the armed forces to work with the utmost effort to safeguard the country and maintain social peace.

"In my capacity as defence minister, I am determined to work with the military to the best of my ability for the advancement of the armed forces," he said.

Samak said he found it one of the most memorable moments in his life that the military commanders had wished him a happy Songkran holiday.

Meanwhile, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra yesterday welcomed Songkran well-wishers at his Shinawatra Tower III office, government spokesman Wichianchot Sukchotrat said.

"Thaksin wishes everyone a Happy Thai New Year holiday and pledges forgiveness and expects forgiveness in return," Wichianchot said. Seen among well-wishers were Thaksin's allies and banned party executives, including Pongthep Thepkanchana, Chaiyos Sasomsap, Pairoj Suwanchawee and Chidchai Vanasatidya.

Wichianchot was curiously absent at the well-wishing ceremony organised by the top brass for Prime Minister Samak at Government House, but showed up at Thaksin's side.

The Nation