Protesters to gather nationwide between September 9-21
Category: Unrest
Severity: 2 (Low)
Source: Drum Cussac
09/09/2020 (Thailand) - Rival political activist groups plan to demonstrate nationwide between Wednesday, September 9, and September 19. Pro-democracy groups have been gathering to denounce the current government's alleged non-democratic policies and are demanding political reforms. Some have also criticized the monarchy and accused it of being undemocratic. Government supporters, conversely, believe pro-democracy supporters undermine state institutions, including the monarchy. Organizers of the rallies have released the following dates for gatherings (local time):
* Wednesday, September 9: A pro-democracy gathering at Thammasat University in Bangkok, from 15:00.
* Wednesday, September 9: A pro-democracy rally at Yala Rajabhat University in Yala, from 15:00.
* Thursday, September 10: A pro-democracy rally at Muang Police Station in Khon Kaen, from 09:00.
* Thursday, September 10: A pro-government gathering at in Siam Square Soi 5, Bangkok, from 10:00.
* Friday, September 11: A pro-democracy rally at Thung Si Muang Park, Udon Thani, from 17:00.
* Saturday, September 12: A pro-democracy rally at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.
* Saturday, September 12: A pro-government rally at Chang Phueak Park in Yala, 10:00-13:30.
* Saturday, September 12: A pro-democracy rally at Sanam Na Muang Park in Nakhon Si Thammarat, from 15:00.
* Sunday, September 13: A pro-democracy rally at King Narai the Great Monument in Lopburi, from 17:00.
* September 19: A pro-democracy rally at Thammasat University in Bangkok.
A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of the protest sites.
Context
Public opposition has grown against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha's over government spending, the dissolution of an opposition party, and many other factors. Activists have also called for reforms to the powers of the monarchy. Protests on an increasing scale have been held in Bangkok and other locations across Thailand in recent weeks. Counter protests have also been held, particularly in support of the monarchy.
On August 8, student groups officially launched the Free People group, which has grown out of the previous Free Youth movement responsible for much of the recent protest activity. On August 16, 10,000 people took part in a demonstration organized by the group in Bangkok, one of the largest protests to be held since the coup in 2014. At least ten people were arrested by police. Protests organized by student groups have since been occurring in Bangkok on a near-daily basis.
Those in Thailand are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions, avoid all protests or demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.
Copyright © 2024 Drum Cussac
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