Tens of thousands of Thais continue to protest across the country despite government crackdowns, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Prayuth.
Hundreds of thousands of Thais once again staged street protests in at least six cities, including the capital Bangkok, on Saturday (Oct. 17), despite a crackdown by the government. It was the fourth consecutive day of relatively peaceful street protests in Thailand. The protesters again demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha.
Thai police used water cannons on Friday to disperse thousands of protesters and took several measures to prevent protests, including shutting down Bangkok’s mass public transportation system. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha declared a state of emergency Thursday, banning political rallies of more than five people and arresting more than 50 people, including several protest leaders.
The Royal Palace did not comment on the protests, but King Maha Vajiralongkorn said Thailand needs people who love the royal family and love the country.
Pro-democracy activists in Thailand began demonstrating three months ago, calling for the resignation of former army general Prayuth Prayuth, who staged a coup to overthrow the democratically elected civilian government in 2014. Prayuth won election as prime minister last year, but protesters say the election was fraudulent.
The protesters are also calling for reform of Thailand’s constitution to reduce the influence of the Thai royal family.
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