Thai Labour Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung on February 28 rejected a proposal for talks from the protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban as demonstrators rallied at ministries to put pressure on Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to step down.

Chalerm, who oversees the state of emergency imposed last month, said the PM should not talk to Suthep because she is the legitimate leader of the country while Suthep is facing warrants for his arrest and heads an illegal movement.

The man is proposing negotiations as protester numbers are dwindling, the senior minister said.

Suthep on February 27 suggested that he and Yingluck hold a televised debate.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on February 26 called on all Thai parties to participate in comprehensive and meaningful dialogue to put an end to the current crisis and promote innovation.

The UN chief said he is willing to support in any form so that all Thai parties and people can overcome the situation.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul also called for the United Nations’ help to resolve the political crisis in his country.-VNA