DPM proposes setting up special administrative zones in Thai far South, Phuket

BANGKOK, September 7 (TNA) - Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yubamrung has aired an idea to turn Thailand's three violence-plagued southernmost provinces of Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat, as well as the renowned resort Phuket Province, also in the Thai South, into special administrative zones. Chalerm proposed the idea on Friday, aimed mainly to end the persistent violent unrest in the Thai deep South, saying that the special administrative zones, if established, should be ruled by elected mayors or governors under the supervision of the central government, like the long-established Pattaya City in Thailand's eastern seaside Chonburi Province. Chalerm said that he plans to raise the proposal at the next meeting of ruling Puea Thai MPs, and that the idea needs the promulgation of a new bill. (TNA)