Thai radio shut over ex-PM's call

The ex-PM is reported to have called two other Thai radio stations

A radio station in Thailand has been taken off air only hours after broadcasting an interview with ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

The Confidante Community radio station was the first Thai broadcaster to carry an interview with Mr Thaksin since his overthrow by the military in September.

Mr Thaksin, who lives in exile, called for a swift return to democracy.

Military authorities said the radio station had aired material that could instigate unrest.

Mr Thaksin telephoned the radio station on Wednesday night, when a nine-minute interview was broadcast live. The interview was aired again on Thursday morning.

'A peaceful end'

"I am concerned about the country... I don't want to be the cause for people to gather in protest and the cause of social chaos," Mr Thaksin said, reportedly phoning from London.

"I want to see peace and reconciliation but... if it seems like revenge, it's hard to find a peaceful end."

The former prime minister is reported to have called two other Thai radio stations. He has been posting regular messages on his website.

The military threatened in January to close down any broadcasters which carried statements by Mr Thaksin considered likely to endanger national security.

Mr Thaksin was deposed in September following popular protests calling for his resignation over alleged corruption and abuse of power.