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State of emergency could be extended until July 31

The National Security Council (NSC) has recommended extending enforcement of the emergency decree imposed to curb the COVID-19 pandemic for another month until July 31.

The decree period is set to expire at the end of this month.

NSC secretary-general Somsak Roongsita said on Thursday they wanted the decree enforced for one more month due to continued concerns about the Covid-19 situation.

Schools across the country will start a new term on Wednesday. Businesses which pose a high risk of virus transmission, including nightclubs, will reopen if a meeting of the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) on Monday approves the latest proposal to further ease restrictions, Gen Somsak said.

Gen Somsak said the proposed extension of the state of emergency will be also decided at the CCSA meeting on Monday. It will then go before the cabinet for approval on Tuesday. Critics and the opposition have called on the government to end the decree as it gives authorities the power to stop gatherings and curb other freedoms.

Read more at Bangkok Post