PM threatens protesters with full force of the law if unrest continues to escalate

Thai PM Prayut Chan-o-cha has warned pro-democracy protesters that they face the full force of the law if ongoing political rallies continue to escalate. On Tuesday, thousands of anti-government protesters gathered outside the Parliament building, where MPs and senators were voting on draft amendments to the constitution. A draft submitted by human rights group iLaw, with the backing of 100,000 signatures, was rejected on its first reading, leading to condemnation from pro-democracy groups and more protests the following day.

Riot police used water cannons and tear gas in an attempt to stop protesters from reaching the Parliament building and violent clashes broke out between pro and anti-establishment groups. At least 55 people were injured, including 6 people who were shot, according to medical attendees.

Anti-government protests have been taking place around the country since mid-July, with the largest taking place in the capital, as pro-democracy groups push for charge. They have 3 key demands, which are the resignation of the PM, the dissolution of Parliament, and reform of the Monarchy. Counter rallies have also been staged by Royalists and pro-government protesters.

The PM insists the government has attempted to resolve the situation through peaceful means, accusing protesters of not co-operating. He says the authorities have dealt with protests lawfully, but the situation is now worsening and tending towards violence. He adds that the ongoing unrest risks undermining the national interest and the Monarchy, as well as being a risk to the safety of people and property. He concludes that the government and other authorities have no option but to use the full force of the law against those who break it.

For their part, activists say a proposed reconciliation committee will do nothing to address the issues that matter and is merely a way of helping the PM cling on to power. They have vowed to press on with protest action until their demands are met.

SOURCE: Nation Thailand