Big protests as Thai MPs pass political amnesty bill

Bangkok

THAILAND'S lower house of parliament passed a controversial political amnesty bill yesterday that opponents fear will allow fugitive former premier Thaksin Shinawatra to return home and unleash fresh civil strife. Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Bangkok at three locations with the biggest demonstration being held at Samsen railway station in Bangkok's historic quarter.

Critics say the amnesty, which still needs approval by the upper house, would "whitewash" past abuses, including the killing of unarmed protesters. Observers warned the bill, which appears to be aimed at bringing Thaksin home from self-imposed exile, could trigger another round of civil unrest in a country with a history of political violence.