Five anti-government groups gather Friday to seek Thai PM’s resignation
Pro-democracy supporters display the three-finger symbol of resistance during a demonstration in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, June 24, 2021. Pro-democracy protesters have taken to the streets of Thailand’s capital, marking the 89th anniversary of the overthrow of the country’s absolute monarchy by renewing their demands that the government step down, the constitution be amended and the monarchy become more accountable. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
Five anti-government groups are holding rallies today, at Government House and other sites in Bangkok, to seek Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s resignation, despite a ban on gatherings of 20 people or more in the capital.
The Thai People group, led by Nititorn Lumlua, is gathering at 3pm at Uruphong Intersection, before marching to Government House. The Thai Mai Thon (Impatient Thais) group is to meet at Pan Fah Intersection at 4pm, before marching to Government House, and a group, led by Sombat Boonngamanong, is to rally by car from the Democracy Monument to Government House from 5pm.
The Thammasat and Ratsadon groups are also gathering at Uruphong Intersection at 4pm, before marching to Government House.
City deputy police chief Pol Maj Gen Piya Tavichai said today that the gatherings are illegal and people will be charged. Police officers are being deployed for gatherings planned for today and tomorrow.
Thailand’s anti-government street protests resumed last week, to demand Parliament accept constitution amendment drafts submitted by the Opposition, despite the ongoing surge in COVID-19 infections. Only one draft on the two-ballot system, from the Democrat Party, was voted for, out of 13 submitted.
