Black May deceased protesters honoured: Demand for democracy

In a poignant gathering to commemorate the 32nd anniversary of the Black May protests, politicians, academics, activists, and relatives of those killed in the 1992 crackdown honoured the fallen democracy heroes.

The Black May 1992 Memorial on Ratchadamnoen Avenue was the site of a solemn ceremony and merit-making rituals for the deceased yesterday. Officially, 44 lives were lost, though the true toll is believed to be much higher, with many protesters still unaccounted for.

The event was graced by prominent figures including Parliament President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, former protest leader Assistant Professor Prinya Thaewanarumitkul, Adul Khiewboriboon representing the families of the deceased, Pheu Thai Party’s spokesman Anusorn Iamsa-ard, and Move Forward Party deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakun.

Speakers at the event reflected on the legacy of the 1997 people’s constitution, widely regarded as one of Thailand’s most democratic charters. They advocated for amending the current post-coup constitution to better reflect the will of the people.

Prinya Thaewanarumitkul lamented Thailand’s slow progress towards democracy since Black May, criticising the existing military-imposed charter.

“Let’s work together to bring democracy back to the country under a people’s constitution. The constitution must belong to everyone, ensuring no more pro-democracy protests and losses of lives.”

Wan Noor paid tribute to the fallen protesters, acknowledging their pivotal role in advancing democracy. He emphasised the ongoing nature of this struggle and backed efforts to draft a new charter inspired by the 1997 model.

“Society must move on in peace. Even in conflict, violence and undemocratic solutions are unnecessary. Honour the heroes by maintaining their spirit.”

Sawit Kaewwan, leader of the Thai Labour Solidarity Confederation, echoed these sentiments, urging political parties to fulfil their promises of creating a constitution that genuinely serves the people and the nation.

The Black May uprising, which erupted on May 17, 1992, was the largest since the 1973 Day of Great Sorrow, with up to 200,000 people protesting in Bangkok, reported The Nation.

The violent clashes were only quelled when King Rama IX intervened on May 20, bringing temporary peace to the nation.