By Chainarong Monthienvichienchai
THAILAND – Skirmishes reportedly continued Tuesday despite a ceasefire agreement reached at midnight on Jul 28 between Thailand and Cambodia, following five days of deadly cross-border violence.
As uncertainty lingers, Church leaders in northeastern Thailand have decided to keep evacuees at emergency shelters until the situation stabilizes and the safety of returning parishioners can be assured.
“Evacuees from the border region with Cambodia are being advised not to return to their homes, despite a ceasefire agreement,” said Bishop Stephen Boonlert Phromsena of Ubon Ratchathani Diocese, which borders Cambodia and has borne the brunt of the clashes. “While the ceasefire offers hope for an end to the conflict, we are prioritizing the safety and security of our parishioners displaced by the recent clashes.”
The Thai government acknowledged on Tuesday morning at Government House that communication gaps remain in implementing the ceasefire.
“There’s still something that hasn’t been fully communicated,” Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai admitted. “Today, the army commanders of both countries will hold discussions. After the talks, the ceasefire should be much clearer.”
Church continues relief efforts amid fragile peace
Hundreds of Catholics from seven parishes in the Diocese of Ubon Ratchathani, along with nearly 200,000 residents, have been evacuated to shelters in Ubon Ratchathani, Si Sa Ket, Surin, and Buri Ram provinces.
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