Thailand: Opposition march in Bangkok May 22 /update 2

Event

Political opposition activists are planning to stage a march in Bangkok on Tuesday, May 22, demanding that a general election be held in the country by November. Around 1000 demonstrators are anticipated to participate in the protest. Some 3000 police officers are expected to monitor the march which is slated to begin at Thammasat University and conclude at Government House. Thai authorities have declared Government House and adjacent streets to be a "no-go zone." Localized traffic disruptions are expected near the march route, as well as a heightened security presence. Additional protests, clashes between protesters and police, and further traffic disruptions cannot be ruled out.

Context

The demonstrations are set to coincide with the fourth anniversary of the 2014 coup d'etat 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 to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.