Airport set to be used as a temporary workplace for government workers

According to reports on 10 September 2008, Don Muang International Airport (VTBD/DMK) is set to be used as a temporary workplace for government workers. Officials stated that the Government House, which protesters have been occupying since 26 August, is in such a state of disrepair, that it will take months to fix. Officials have been operating out of the Public Relations Department and the Thai Army Headquarters since the beginning of the protests. Deputy Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat, who is currently acting as caretaker until a new prime minister is elected, stated that the reception areas of the airport will be used for government guests. Somchai also indicated that once the protesters no longer occupy the Government House a new parking garage will be built on the property off of Rajdamnoen Avenue. Meanwhile, party nominations are in full swing for the prime minister's election, which is set for 12 September. Within the People Power Party (PPP) there are a number of concerns with re-electing Samak Sundaravej, with some feeling that placing such a controversial figure back into office would throw Thailand into further political unrest. The Chart Thai party's leader stated that his party supports a PPP-led coalition, but did not specify that his party supports Samak's re-election. The Democrat Party leader stated that he is ready to be prime minister and would form a government that would represent all parties; however, the PPP dismissed rumors that it is considering joining a Democrat-led coalition