Protests against Thai coup persist despite warning

May 27, 2014

Over in Thailand, the political crisis continues with protesters demonstrating against the military’s take over of power. On Monday afternoon, hundreds of people gathered around a monument, defying the army’s orders to stop public gatherings and protests. Soldiers and riot police surrounded the protesters, and at several points, faced off directly with them. There have been no reports of any violent clashes so far. But the army says if protests continue, that’s not something that they can guarantee.
Earlier on the same day, Thailand’s monarchy endorsed the military takeover and acknowledged Army Chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha, as the new head of the de facto government. The General has promised free elections, but says peace must be returned first. He has ordered troops to stay in control and the nightly curfew between 10 pm and 5am be kept in place.