Thailand's army chief Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin has told Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra the current situation does not yet warrant the use of military force, local press reported Thursday.

Speaking after his meeting with Thaksin at Baan Phitsanulok on Wednesday, Gen Sonthi that they talked about the ongoing political tension and the prime minister did not ask the help from the military nor a plan to declare a state of emergency.

Sonthi said he also told the prime minister that use of military force is not yet necessary, as resorting to force would damage the government's image.

Sondhi Limthongkul, one of the key figures leading the protests, told the audience on Wednesday that he heard the government would declare a state of emergency by next Wednesday, citing the need for order ahead of the April 2 general election.

The general said he and the prime minister also discussed a spate of rumors which could cause damage and conflicts in society.

The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), which has been staging the anti-Thaksin rallies, has set a 48-hour deadline for the premier to step down, or it will take a "decisive measure." The deadline is due Thursday night. They also planned the biggest anti-Thaksin rally on Saturday.

The change of the rally venue to Makkhawan Rangsan bridge were not worrying since the demonstrators were still gathering in peace and respected the rules, Gen Sonthi was quoted by Bangkok Post as saying.

He called on the rally-goers, especially speakers, to avoid using harsh or rude words which could worsen the situation and set a bad example for children who were taking part.

Source: Xinhua