Senate speaker assigned as mediator to solve tensions

Earlier in the afternoon Prasopsuk met with House Speaker Chai Chidchob and opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva. They agreed to try to use parliamentary representation to broker a peaceful resolution to the political crisis before it spiralled out of control.

Abhisit said the three had agreed to name Prasopsuk as the mediator to convince the government and the People's Alliance for Democracy to work out a compromise. Prasopsuk indicated that he would do his best.

Samak told reporters that he is considering a way out of the state of emergency, which has been imposed since Tuesday but could be implemented. But he said he needs to consult with all agencies involved first.

All the political parties have agreed to instruct their MPs to stop inflaming the conflict in order to allow for an atmosphere more conducive for a negotiated settlement.

Abhisit said top legislative leaders view negotiating as the most practical way to end the turmoil because holding a national referendum might be too late to pull the country and its economy from the brink of ruin.

The top lawmakers urgently met after Army chief General Anupong Paochinda made it clear on Tuesday that the military would not step into the political bickering and that Parliament must do more to find a political solution.

Anupong voiced disappointment at the August 31 parliamentary session, which saw barbs flying but produced no tangible results.

Before the three met, Chai said he was willing to convene another parliamentary session.

It was unclear how Prasopsuk would accomplish his task although he pledged to strive for a speedy solution.

The military denied any rift with the government, saying the state of emergency in Bangkok was declared on Tuesday but its formalities were completed two days later.

Lt General Prayuth Chanocha, commander of the First Army Area, which includes the capital, dismissed notions about a possible split between the government and the military regarding enforcement of the emergency decree.

Samak on Thursday sought and received Cabinet approval to consolidate his emergency powers via some 20 laws. This sparked speculation that he might want to take away those powers from Anupong after the general showed reluctance to exercise force in quashing the protesters.

Prayuth tried to allay concerns by saying that Thursday's Cabinet decision was meant to sort out legal procedures relating to the state of emergency in Bangkok.

Under the emergency provisions, the prime minister is the designated enforcer of emergency power and he has to delegate his responsibilities via a clear line of command, as specified on Thursday.

Under the new command chain, Anupong will dispense his duties in executing emergency measures through the State of Emergency Command, comprised of civilian, police and military officials.

Anupong will report directly to the prime minister.