Supporters of the Move Forward party have issued a statement, urging senators, who abstained from voting in last Thursday’s joint sitting of the parliament to select the prime minister, to resign and calling on the eight coalition parties to remain united to fulfil their pledges to the people.

The statement also calls on the Thai people to join forces with them in their struggle to effect change in Thai society.

The statement was read at the Bangkok Arts and Culture Centre at the end of the rally, initiated by Arnon Nampa, a member of Thai Lawyers for Human Rights and former leader of the anti-establishment Ratsadon group.

In his speech to the demonstrators, Arnon warned that any coalition party which breaks away from the alliance will be branded “dictators”.

Arnon told the audience that his heart was pained when many MPs did not vote in support of Pita’s prime ministerial candidacy, citing Chada Thaised, of the Bhumjaithai party, who accused the Move Forward party for harbouring an intention to overthrow the monarchy.

He said that the “old guard” in Thai politics are afraid of the Move Forward party, not just because of its intent to amend the lèse majesté law, but due to the party’s policies to effect change in other areas, which may threaten their status quo.

Meanwhile, Somyot Prueksakasemsuk, a core member of the “June 24th” anti-establishment group, urged supporters of the Move Forward party to rally in front of the Constitutional Court on Tuesday, as it considers whether to accept the Election Commission’s petition regarding Pita’s iTV shareholding.

Somyot also urged MPs of all parties to wear black on Thursday, to “mourn” senators and MPs who do not vote in support of Pita’s candidacy this Wednesday.

The rally ended at about 6.50pm.