Protesters defy public gathering ban
BANGKOK: Thousands of Thai prodemocracy activists rallied yesterday to call for a new government and political reforms, defying an emergency order against public gatherings, as the government attempted to crack down on the large demonstrations.
Thousands marched to Government House to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan- ocha’s government, as well as a new constitution and reforms to the monarchy. “Slaves to dictators!” the protesters chanted.
Police said they had arrested more than 20 activists.
The anti- government activists charge that the prime minister, a former army chief who seized power in a 2014 coup, follows the interests of the monarchy, which they view as the root of Thailand’s political problems.