Thai President replaces martial law with new order to secure sweeping powers

Thai Prime Minister Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha says he will lift martial law and replace it with a new order. The move according to reports will give him more sweeping powers.

Critics have expressed alarm at the move, with Human Rights Watch's Asia Director, Brad Adams saying it marked the country's deepening descent into dictatorship.

Martial law was imposed shortly before Thailand's military seized power in May last year, ousting the democratically elected government of Yingluck Shinawatra after months of violent street protests.

Amnesty International says ever since, hundreds of people have been arbitrarily held and dozens brought before military courts for engaging in peaceful political gatherings or expression.

CNN