Violence broke out overnight near the main government complex, which has been occupied for a week by activists who want Samak to resign, claiming he is merely a puppet for ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra.
'I didn't sleep last night. I have carried out my duty,' he said, adding that he would hold a press conference at the Thai army headquarters at 10.00am.
Mr Samak declared a state of emergency in Bangkok hours after street fights between thousands of his supporters and opponents that left one dead and dozens injured.
Thousands of Mr Samak's supporters who had rallied near Government House and clashed with rival protesters were seen dispersing shortly after the emergency was announced. -- AFP