Three protest groups have converged at the Democracy Monument, as the metropolitan police warn them to confine themselves to this main protest site, and not march to elsewhere.
The “Bad Student” group had earlier gathered in front of the Education Ministry, with a coffin and a portrait of Education Minister Nataphol Teepsuwan. After completing a mock burial, they later moved to the Democracy Monument to join the other two protest groups, “Mob Fest” and “Women Freedom”.
Three stages were erected. The one at Kok Wua intersection and another at the Pan Fah Bridge are intended for concerts and the third, in front of the McDonalds fast food outlet at the Democracy Monument, was reserved for the Women Freedom Group, to allow speakers to talk about gender issues.
Police reminded the protesters that their rallies must end at about 1am and no loud speakers will be allowed after midnight, to avoid any disturbance to people living in the vicinity.
Protesters were also told not to display posters which insult or offend other people and to refrain from making insulting remarks while speaking. They were also asked to wear face masks at all times, in line with the health advisory.
Meanwhile, royalist groups gathered on Rajdamnoen Avenue, along which a motorcade, carrying Their Majesties the King and Queen, was due to pass at about 5pm on their way to preside over the official opening of the extension of the Blue Line train at Sanam Chai station.
Other royalist groups, mostly wearing yellow shirts, also gathered in front of The Mall Bang Kae and the Sanam Chai station to greet Their Majesties.
