Opposition demands to see torture decree

Cabinet blames lack of budget for delay

The opposition yesterday demanded the cabinet forward to the House an executive decree postponing enforcement of key provisions of the law aimed at countering torture and enforced disappearances.

Cholnan Srikaew, leader of the main opposition Pheu Thai Party, said the House would not be adjourned until Feb 28, so the cabinet had no excuse not to send the decree for deliberation promptly.

The House, he said, expected to receive the decree this week. It postponed the enforcement of articles 22, 23, 24 and 25 of the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act for seven months.

Dr Cholnan criticised the government for the delay, saying it would deprive people of protection against abuse and harassment by law enforcement authorities. The law, published in the Royal Gazette on…