Thailand protests: parliament convenes to discuss ‘illegal’ pro-democracy movement

The protesters want the PM to quit, the military-scripted constitution to be rewritten and the role of the powerful monarchy to be reformed

Tensions spiked earlier this month when protesters flashed three-finger salutes at Queen Suthida’s motorcade as it passed by

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Thailand Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha during an open special session of parliament in Bangkok. Photo: AP

Published: 12:31pm, 26 Oct 2020Updated: 9:29pm, 25 Nov 2020

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha on Monday said Thailand’s “illegal protests” must be brought under control as he opened a special parliamentary session to discuss months of pro-democracy rallies.

Prayuth, the former military chief who staged the 2014 coup, has faced increasing pressure in recent weeks from tens of thousands of protesters demanding his resignation.

“Though the people have the freedom to protest based on the constitution, authorities need to control the illegal protests,” said Prayuth, who recalled parliament from recess last week. “We do not want to see clashes or riots in the country,” he said, accusing some protesters of “inappropriate actions”.

Prayuth last week recalled parliament – which was in recess – to discuss how to reduce tensions.

The protesters want Prayuth’s resignation, the military-scripted constitution to be rewritten and the government to “stop harassing” political opponents.