Thailand: Bangkok police threaten to crack down on demonstrations May 21-22 /update 1

Event

Thai police have threatened to crack down on pro-election demonstrations scheduled to take place in Bangkok on Monday, May 21, and Tuesday, May 22.

The demonstrations have been called for to protest the military government (National Council for Peace and Order) and to demand elections. According to local sources, protesters are expected to rally at Thammasat University. Heightened security measures, as well as associated transportation disruptions, are expected in the vicinity of the protest. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

The demonstrations are set to coincide with the fourth anniversary of the 2014 coup, and have been organized by civil society and activist groups over the growing public discontent ahead of a general election repeatedly delayed by the military government of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. Thailand was rocked by often deadly street protests between 2008 and 2014. The ruling junta has clamped down on freedom of expression since the 2014 coup and subsequently banned public gatherings.

Advice

Individuals in Bangkok are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations due to the threat of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.