In a new twist, Chamlong Srimuang, a core leader of PAD, today sent a note to Airports Authority Governor Serirat Prasutanont asking him to reopen the two international airports "because our protestors have not blocked the landings and departures of aircraft."

Serirat said he had instructed the new airports to reopen as of 6.00 pm tomorrow (Monday, Dec 1) because as of today, many protestors are still rallying in front of the airports' passenger terminals.

Chamlong said in his letter that the PAD protestors were gathered outside the terminals. "We have not gone into the runways or the control towers. So, I ask you, as the governor in charge of the two main airports, to provide proper protection to the aircraft and related activities."

In other words, the PAD leader was suggesting that PAD did not not to be blamed for the "seizures" of Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueng -- an action that has come under severe criticism from within the country and without.

Chamlong's letter was a subtle retreat to blunt the heavy criticism from various circles after the two airports were effectively closed following PAD protestors' rallies at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueng.