Thailand’s government has imposed a 60-day “state of emergency” on the capital Bangkok and surrounding provinces, to deal with the opposition protests aimed at forcing Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to step down. 

“We need it because the protesters have closed government buildings, banks and escalated the situation, which has caused injuries and deaths.  The government sees the need to announce the emergency decree to keep the situation under control,” said Thailand's labor minister Chalerm Yubumrung.

Huge throngs of opposition protesters have since last month chocked Bagkok’s government areas, bringing the capital to a standstill.  They’re demanding Yingluck's resignation to make way for an appointed, unelected government of so-called “good people” to implement unvetted reforms to fight alleged corruption. 

The opposition is refusing to contest the 2 February, but wasn’t expected to win even if it did because Yingluck’s ruling party enjoys widespread support in the north, where it began development and health programs in the long-neglected area.

The Prime Minister is acting to protect the elections, and she says the police and not the military will enforce the state of emergency.

“We will use peaceful negotiations with the protesters in line with international standards.  We have told the police to stick with international standards, to be patient with the protesters,” said Prime Minister Shinawatra.