Thailand's Red-Shirt Protesters Consider Election Offer

Thailand 's red-shirt protesters say they are considering a government offer of elections in November as a way out of the political crisis. One leader said 20 top red-shirts would discuss the offer, saying he supported a non-violent end to the deadlock.

Photo: Thailand's Red-Shirt Protesters Consider Election Offer

The red-shirts have been protesting in Bangkok since 14 March, paralysing parts of the Thai capital. Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has been under intense pressure to end the stand-off, BBC News says.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva on Monday offered a plan that includes elections in November, an investigation into violence during the protests, assistance to the poor and the promotion of social justice.

The protesters, known as red shirts, are largely rural residents and the urban poor. Many support former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, and say the current government is illegitimate because it was selected by parliament, Voice of America informs.