Junta's proposal is approved by cabinet but it does not involve all Thai provinces. Martial law will remain in force in the southern provinces where insecurity has forced public schools to shut down. Thai defence minister visits Malaysia to find a solution to insurgency crisis.

Bangkok (AsiaNews) – Thailand's military is set to lift martial law from some provinces, including Bangkok, which was imposed on September 19 following a coup that ousted then beleaguered Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. The Council for National Security established by the military has recommended the action to Thailand's transitional government which approved the move today. It is still not known when and where the measure will take place.

The country still remains uneasy. The military junta has several times pointed the finger at underground rumblings in the rural north, i.e. in Thaksin's stronghold.

Martial law has meant restriction on the internet, press and public and political gatherings.

Further details about the proposal should be made public today.

Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej should eventually sign the proposal into law.

It is certain that the southern provinces on the border with Malaysia will remain under martial law. Terrorist attacks blamed on Muslim separatists have been up.

Public schools in Pattani, Narathiwat and Yala have in fact decided to remain closed "until further notice". Recently, school buildings have been damaged by arson and teachers, including two Buddhist teachers who were killed, were victims of assault last week.

The southern, mostly Muslim border provinces will also be at the centre of talks Thai Defence Minister Boonrawd Somtas will hold during his three-day visit to Malaysia which began today. He is accompanied by army chief and coup leader, General Sonthi Boonyaratglin.

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