Thousands of Thai protesters marched in the capital of Bangkok Wednesday, demanding the resignation of the prime minister and clashing with pro-monarchy demonstrators.
Student protests have persisted in Thailand in recent months, calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, who took power in a military coup six years ago.
The student-led movement has also criticized King Maha Vajiralongkorn – a bold move in a country where insulting the monarchy can lead to criminal charges.
Marchers approached Government House, where the prime minister lives, Wednesday evening, clashing with pro-monarchy demonstrators along the way.
The Bangkok Post newspaper reported that demonstrators broke police lines outside Government House, where they intended to stage a sit-in.
Protesters outside Government House to oust Prime Minister #Prayut Chan-o-cha. #BangkokPost #Thailand #politics pic.twitter.com/ELDIKzmoh4
— Bangkok Post (@BangkokPostNews) October 14, 2020
The latest wave of protests began in February when the Future Forward Party (FFP), a progressive party largely supported by young Thais, was dissolved by court order. Protests were then halted due to COVID-19 concerns, but regained energy in July, despite a ban on large gatherings.