[ad_1]
They are images that recall the months of protests in Hong Kong: protesters, shoulder to shoulder, trying to defend themselves from the beam of a water cannon. They have fine umbrellas in their hands. Bangkok police also used tear gas on Friday and tried to break through the ranks of protesters.
The activists shared images on Twitter that showed the water was blue; participants struck by the liquid later reported that the chemical in the water acted like tear gas. Around 2,000 protesters are said to have taken to the streets on Friday.
Three fingers against the government
The protesters protested against the decree that prohibits gatherings of more than five people. Participants usually raise three fingers as a signal. It comes from the science fiction film series “The Hunger Games”.
Despite continued protests against his government, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has categorically rejected the resignation. “I will not go,” the 66-year-old told reporters on Friday.
Protesters demand an end to intimidation
There have been mass demonstrations in the Southeast Asian country for months. The participants demand the resignation of the head of government, a new election and extensive reforms. General Prayut Chan-o-cha has been in power since a military coup in 2014. The democracy movement also calls for an end to intimidation of citizens and political opponents.
Most of the protest leaders were arrested on Thursday alone, including Anon Nampa (36), who is considered the most important leader of the movement. It is said that they took him to the northern city of Chiang Mai.
Thai king much less popular than his father
Thousands of people took to the streets again on Thursday, this time on the Ratchaprasong shopping street. The government has deployed thousands of security guards. If the demonstrations continue, a night curfew will be imposed, the government announced.
The demonstrations also deal with the role of the monarchy and a strict law allowing up to 15 years in prison for lese majesté. The subject has long been taboo in Thailand, especially during the reign of King Bhumibol, revered almost as a god, who died in 2016 at the age of 89. Her son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn (68), lives most of the time in Bavaria. He is much less popular than his father, but he also has a large following. (SDA / neo)
