Since the "red shirt" protests ended in Thailand, the government has maintained tight control to prevent more unrest. But the government seems to be easing up a bit: This past week, it lifted an emergency decree in several provinces, while still keeping a state of emergency over most of the country.

Thailand's government says it's lifting a state of emergency in three provinces but it will remain in force in 16 others, including Bangkok.

On Tuesday Thai prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva broke the news to media.

[Abhisit Vejjajiva, Prime Minister, Thailand]: (Thai male)
"The cabinet meeting approved lifting the state of emergency in three provinces. We assessed the situation in the three provinces, which have returned to normal."

Five provinces already had restrictions lifted on July 6 when the initial state of emergency came to an end.

The government fears some in the "red shirt" movement may still attempt to provoke further trouble, even though hundreds, including most of the leadership, are detained.

[Abhisit Vejjajiva, Prime Minister, Thailand]: (Thai, male)
"There are still some movements and meetings among them. We need to be cautious and remain stable so we can handle the situation. I don't think it is a good idea to lift the state of emergency in all areas because unrest may occur again."

The state of emergency bans political gatherings of more than five people and gives the government powers to censor the media.

It also gives broad powers to the security forces, including the right to detain suspects without charge.

Opposition parties had pressed for the emergency to be lifted in Bangkok to allow campaigning for a parliamentary by-election on Sunday.