Chamlong Srimuang - Secretary To Prem

Secretary To Prem

On April 1, 1981, the Young Turks, frustrated at the slow pace of political reform under Prem, staged a coup, later nicknamed the "April Fools Day" coup. Chamlong refused to take part, instead standing by Prem. The coup collapsed after the royal family, accompanied by Prem to Nakhon Ratchasima Province, announced their support for troops loyal to the government.

A rift between Chamlong and Prem later erupted when the lower house of Parliament passed a law legalizing abortions in cases of rape and in situations when a pregnant woman's life was in danger. Chamlong was strongly opposed to what he viewed as "free abortions," and he resigned as Prem's secretary and successfully lobbied the Senate to veto the law.

Chamlong next was assigned to teach psychology and politics at the National Defense College.

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