After one of the biggest outbreaks of coronavirus in the famous seafood market, Thailand's&nbsp;Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha has passed a controversial statement blaming the migrants for it.

Thailand reported one of the biggest outbreaks of COVID-19 in the country after a&nbsp;67-year-old prawn seller from Mahachai market tested positive for coronavirus. The market was out on high alert immediately after nearly 800 people were found to have been infected through contact tracing.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-set-to-test-10000-after-biggest-outbreak-in-seafood-market-351212">Thailand set to test 10,000 after biggest outbreak in seafood market</a>

Following the infection rate, Thailand&nbsp;decided to test more than 10,000 people from the market and the surrounding areas. While the authorities were busy inf finding the origin of this outbreak, the Prime Minister seems to have made up his mind that the low-paid migrants are the sole reason behind this massive outbreak.

&nbsp;"They snuck out and came back in,"&nbsp;Prayut said referring to migrant workers who arrived in Thailand from neighbouring Myanmar to look for work.

Earlier, authorities had asked the market workers and residents to not leave the area at any cost. "We are locking and banning them from moving," the health ministry's permanent secretary, Kietphgum Wongit said.

Thailand's COVID-19 taskforce had immediately started tracing the communities in and around the market.&nbsp;"The (Department of Disease Control) will do active tracing in several communities of about 10,300 people," said Taweesin Visanuyothin, a spokesman for Thailand's COVID-19 taskforce.&nbsp;

<a href="After one of the biggest outbreaks of coronavirus in the famous seafood market, Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha has passed a controversial statement blaming the migrants for it. Thailand reported one of the biggest outbreaks of COVID-19 in the country after a 67-year-old prawn seller from Mahachai market tested positive for coronavirus. The market was out on high alert immediately after nearly 800 people were found to have been infected through contact tracing. Following the infection rate, Thailand decided to test more than 10,000 people from the market and the surrounding areas. While the authorities were busy inf finding the origin of this outbreak, the Prime Minister seems to have made up his mind that the low-paid migrants are the sole reason behind this massive outbreak.  &quot;They snuck out and came back in,&quot; Prayut said referring to migrant workers who arrived in Thailand from neighbouring Myanmar to look for work. Earlier, authorities had asked the market workers and residents to not leave the area at any cost. &quot;We are locking and banning them from moving,&quot; the health ministry's permanent secretary, Kietphgum Wongit said. Thailand's COVID-19 taskforce had immediately started tracing the communities in and around the market. &quot;The (Department of Disease Control) will do active tracing in several communities of about 10,300 people,&quot; said Taweesin Visanuyothin, a spokesman for Thailand's COVID-19 taskforce.  However, the PM has asked authorities to come up with a stricter way to handle the situation. &quot;I have told authorities there must be a system to trace workers,&quot; he said. Prayut's statements have attracted criticism from the locals, especially the migrants, who feel this will act as fuel to the fire as it will add to the anti-Myanmar sentiment on social media.">WATCH</a>|

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However, the PM has asked authorities to come up with a stricter way to handle the situation. "I have told authorities there must be a system to trace workers," he said.

Prayut's statements have attracted criticism from the locals, especially the migrants, who feel this will act as fuel to the fire as it will add to the&nbsp;anti-Myanmar sentiment, especially on social media.

After one of the biggest outbreaks of coronavirus in the famous seafood market, Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha has passed a controversial statement blaming the migrants for it.

After one of the biggest outbreaks of coronavirus in the famous seafood market, Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha has passed a controversial statement blaming the migrants for it. Thailand reported one of the biggest outbreaks of COVID-19 in the country after a 67-year-old prawn seller from Mahachai market tested positive for coronavirus. The market was out on high alert immediately after nearly 800 people were found to have been infected through contact tracing. Also read| Thailand set to test 10,000 after biggest outbreak in seafood market Following the infection rate, Thailand decided to test more than 10,000 people from the market and the surrounding areas. While the authorities were busy inf finding the origin of this outbreak, the Prime Minister seems to have made up his mind that the low-paid migrants are the sole reason behind this massive outbreak. "They snuck out and came back in," Prayut said referring to migrant workers who arrived in Thailand from neighbouring Myanmar to look for work. Earlier, authorities had asked the market workers and residents to not leave the area at any cost. "We are locking and banning them from moving," the health ministry's permanent secretary, Kietphgum Wongit said. Thailand's COVID-19 taskforce had immediately started tracing the communities in and around the market. "The (Department of Disease Control) will do active tracing in several communities of about 10,300 people," said Taweesin Visanuyothin, a spokesman for Thailand's COVID-19 taskforce. WATCH| × However, the PM has asked authorities to come up with a stricter way to handle the situation. "I have told authorities there must be a system to trace workers," he said. Prayut's statements have attracted criticism from the locals, especially the migrants, who feel this will act as fuel to the fire as it will add to the anti-Myanmar sentiment, especially on social media.

Thailand's PM Prayut blames migrant workers for COVID-19 outbreak

Thailand has decided to test more than 10,000 people for the novel coronavirus after one an outbreak was linked to the biggest seafood market in the country.

Over 700 new cases were recorded from the Mahachai market and port in Thailand. these were reported after a 67-year-old woman who seels prawn in the market tested positive for the deadly virus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-variant-of-coronavirus-was-out-of-control-in-uk-lockdown-can-be-extended-health-secretary-351194" hreflang="en">New variant of coronavirus was 'out of control' in UK: Health Secretary</a>

In addition to mass testing, authorities have also ordered workers from Myanmar to not leave heir residences till further notice.

"We are locking and banning them from moving," the health ministry's permanent secretary, Kietphgum Wongit said.

This testing will start on an immediate basis and will be free of cost for all migrant workers. Authorities are hoping to finish the testing till Wednesday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-countries-mull-ban-on-flights-from-uk-over-new-coronavirus-variant-351191" hreflang="en">European countries mull ban on flights from UK over new coronavirus variant</a>

"The (Department of Disease Control) will do active tracing in several communities of about 10,300 people," said Taweesin Visanuyothin, a spokesman for Thailand's Covid-19 taskforce.&nbsp;

Thailand, a country which shares borders and workforce with Myanmar and three other countries, has been able to save itself from a massive outbreak, until now. From March till now, Thailand had only recorded 4,000 cases nearly 60 deaths from the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-witnesses-biggest-covid-19-surge-351211">WATCH|</a>

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However, Myanmar has been reporting nearly 1,000 COVID-19 cases on a daily basis. This outbreak, too, is being assumed to have come from workers who migrated from Myanmar.

This has also led to a rise in anti-Myanmar sentiment on social media, stemming from Thailand. Migrant workers hailing from Myanmar have expressed concern over this rise in anti-Myanmar sentiment and have admitted feeling "uneasy" by the hostility.&nbsp;

Thailand has decided to test more than 10,000 people for the novel coronavirus after one an outbreak was linked to the biggest seafood market in the country. Over 700 new cases were recorded from the Mahachai market and port in Thailand.

Thailand has decided to test more than 10,000 people for the novel coronavirus after one an outbreak was linked to the biggest seafood market in the country. Over 700 new cases were recorded from the Mahachai market and port in Thailand. these were reported after a 67-year-old woman who seels prawn in the market tested positive for the deadly virus. Also read| New variant of coronavirus was 'out of control' in UK: Health Secretary In addition to mass testing, authorities have also ordered workers from Myanmar to not leave heir residences till further notice. "We are locking and banning them from moving," the health ministry's permanent secretary, Kietphgum Wongit said. This testing will start on an immediate basis and will be free of cost for all migrant workers. Authorities are hoping to finish the testing till Wednesday. Also read| European countries mull ban on flights from UK over new coronavirus variant "The (Department of Disease Control) will do active tracing in several communities of about 10,300 people," said Taweesin Visanuyothin, a spokesman for Thailand's Covid-19 taskforce. Thailand, a country which shares borders and workforce with Myanmar and three other countries, has been able to save itself from a massive outbreak, until now. From March till now, Thailand had only recorded 4,000 cases nearly 60 deaths from the novel coronavirus. WATCH| × However, Myanmar has been reporting nearly 1,000 COVID-19 cases on a daily basis. This outbreak, too, is being assumed to have come from workers who migrated from Myanmar. This has also led to a rise in anti-Myanmar sentiment on social media, stemming from Thailand. Migrant workers hailing from Myanmar have expressed concern over this rise in anti-Myanmar sentiment and have admitted feeling "uneasy" by the hostility.

Thailand set to test 10,000 after biggest outbreak in seafood market

The US on Wednesday added India along with Taiwan and Thailand to the "monitoring list" of currency manipulating countries that includes major trading partners like China and six others.

It also branded Vietnam and Switzerland as currency manipulators.

Other countries in the monitoring list are Japan, South Korea, Germany, Italy, Singapore and Malaysia.

Ireland has been removed from the Monitoring List, the US Department of Treasury said in its report Macroeconomic and Foreign Exchange Policies of Major Trading Partners of the United States' submitted to the Congress on Wednesday.

Over the four quarters through June 2020, four major US trading partners Vietnam, Switzerland, India, and Singapore&nbsp;intervened in the foreign exchange market in a sustained, asymmetric manner, it said.

Vietnam and Switzerland exceeded the two other objective criteria established by the Treasury to identify potentially unfair currency practices or excessive external imbalances, which could weigh on US growth or harm American workers and firms.

"The Treasury Department has taken a strong step today to safeguard economic growth and opportunity for American workers and businesses said US Treasury Secretary Steven T Mnuchin.

"Treasury will follow up on its findings with respect to Vietnam and Switzerland to work toward eliminating practices that create unfair advantages for foreign competitors,&nbsp;he said in a press release issued by the Treasury Department.

The Treasury found that 10 economies warrant placement on Treasury's "Monitoring List" of major trading partners that merit close attention to their currency practices: China, Japan, Korea, Germany, Italy, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, and India, the last three being added in the report.

Based on Reserve Bank of India's regularly published intervention data, India's net purchases of foreign exchange accelerated notably in the second half of 2019, and following sales during the initial onset of the pandemic, India sustained net purchases for much of the first half of 2020, the report said.

This pushed net purchases of foreign exchange to USD 64 billion, or 2.4 per cent of GDP, over the four quarters through June 2020.

"Treasury continues to welcome India's long-standing transparency in publishing foreign exchange purchases and sales, the report said, adding that it encourages the authorities to limit foreign exchange intervention to periods of excessive volatility while allowing the rupee to adjust based on economic fundamentals.

"By further opening the economy to foreign investors, India can also support economic recovery and bolster long-term growth, said the report.

According to the Treasury, India's economy contracted sharply in the first half of 2020 due to the collapse in domestic demand brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The authorities responded with the modest direct financial support of around two per cent of GDP and substantial monetary easing.

India's deep domestic demand contraction and slower recovery relative to its key trading partners contributed to the economy's first four-quarter current account surplus since 2004 (0.4 per cent of GDP over the year to June 2020).

India for several years has maintained a significant bilateral goods trade surplus with the United States, which totalled USD 22 billion in the four quarters through June 2020, it said.

The Treasury said that India has been exemplary in publishing its foreign exchange market intervention, publishing monthly spot purchases and sales and net forward activity with a two-month lag.

The RBI states that the value of the rupee is broadly market-determined, with intervention used only to curb undue volatility in the exchange rate.

The RBI purchased foreign exchange on the net in 10 of the 12 months through June 2020, with the net intervention (both spot and forward intervention) reaching USD 64 billion, or 2.4 per cent of GDP.

While purchases slowed during the onset of the pandemic, and the RBI engaged in net sales in March 2020, the RBI's net purchases again accelerated in mid-2020 as portfolio inflows resumed and foreign direct investment remained strong.

"Rupee volatility did not appear to have been particularly elevated in the four quarters through June 2020, however.

These purchases have led to a rapid rise in total reserves that are now well in excess of standard reserve adequacy benchmarks.

As of June 2020, foreign currency reserves stood at USD 466 billion, equal to 4.4 times gross short-term external debt.

Reserves have continued to grow in recent months, reaching USD502 billion in September 2020 as purchases accelerated further in July and August, it said.

The Treasury said that Indian authorities should allow the exchange rate to move to reflect economic fundamentals and limit foreign exchange intervention to circumstances of disorderly market conditions.

It said India can also leverage the recovery period to pursue structural reforms that will open its market further to foreign investment and trade, including foreign portfolio investment in Indian sovereign and sub-sovereign bonds, thereby fostering stronger long-term growth.

The US on Wednesday added India along with Taiwan and Thailand to the "monitoring list" of currency manipulating countries that includes major trading partners like China and six others.

The US on Wednesday added India along with Taiwan and Thailand to the "monitoring list" of currency manipulating countries that includes major trading partners like China and six others. It also branded Vietnam and Switzerland as currency manipulators. Other countries in the monitoring list are Japan, South Korea, Germany, Italy, Singapore and Malaysia. Ireland has been removed from the Monitoring List, the US Department of Treasury said in its report Macroeconomic and Foreign Exchange Policies of Major Trading Partners of the United States' submitted to the Congress on Wednesday. Over the four quarters through June 2020, four major US trading partners Vietnam, Switzerland, India, and Singapore intervened in the foreign exchange market in a sustained, asymmetric manner, it said. Vietnam and Switzerland exceeded the two other objective criteria established by the Treasury to identify potentially unfair currency practices or excessive external imbalances, which could weigh on US growth or harm American workers and firms. "The Treasury Department has taken a strong step today to safeguard economic growth and opportunity for American workers and businesses said US Treasury Secretary Steven T Mnuchin. "Treasury will follow up on its findings with respect to Vietnam and Switzerland to work toward eliminating practices that create unfair advantages for foreign competitors, he said in a press release issued by the Treasury Department. The Treasury found that 10 economies warrant placement on Treasury's "Monitoring List" of major trading partners that merit close attention to their currency practices: China, Japan, Korea, Germany, Italy, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, and India, the last three being added in the report. Based on Reserve Bank of India's regularly published intervention data, India's net purchases of foreign exchange accelerated notably in the second half of 2019, and following sales during the initial onset of the pandemic, India sustained net purchases for much of the first half of 2020, the report said. This pushed net purchases of foreign exchange to USD 64 billion, or 2.4 per cent of GDP, over the four quarters through June 2020. "Treasury continues to welcome India's long-standing transparency in publishing foreign exchange purchases and sales, the report said, adding that it encourages the authorities to limit foreign exchange intervention to periods of excessive volatility while allowing the rupee to adjust based on economic fundamentals. "By further opening the economy to foreign investors, India can also support economic recovery and bolster long-term growth, said the report. According to the Treasury, India's economy contracted sharply in the first half of 2020 due to the collapse in domestic demand brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The authorities responded with the modest direct financial support of around two per cent of GDP and substantial monetary easing. India's deep domestic demand contraction and slower recovery relative to its key trading partners contributed to the economy's first four-quarter current account surplus since 2004 (0.4 per cent of GDP over the year to June 2020). India for several years has maintained a significant bilateral goods trade surplus with the United States, which totalled USD 22 billion in the four quarters through June 2020, it said. The Treasury said that India has been exemplary in publishing its foreign exchange market intervention, publishing monthly spot purchases and sales and net forward activity with a two-month lag. The RBI states that the value of the rupee is broadly market-determined, with intervention used only to curb undue volatility in the exchange rate. The RBI purchased foreign exchange on the net in 10 of the 12 months through June 2020, with the net intervention (both spot and forward intervention) reaching USD 64 billion, or 2.4 per cent of GDP. While purchases slowed during the onset of the pandemic, and the RBI engaged in net sales in March 2020, the RBI's net purchases again accelerated in mid-2020 as portfolio inflows resumed and foreign direct investment remained strong. "Rupee volatility did not appear to have been particularly elevated in the four quarters through June 2020, however. These purchases have led to a rapid rise in total reserves that are now well in excess of standard reserve adequacy benchmarks. As of June 2020, foreign currency reserves stood at USD 466 billion, equal to 4.4 times gross short-term external debt. Reserves have continued to grow in recent months, reaching USD502 billion in September 2020 as purchases accelerated further in July and August, it said. The Treasury said that Indian authorities should allow the exchange rate to move to reflect economic fundamentals and limit foreign exchange intervention to circumstances of disorderly market conditions. It said India can also leverage the recovery period to pursue structural reforms that will open its market further to foreign investment and trade, including foreign portfolio investment in Indian sovereign and sub-sovereign bonds, thereby fostering stronger long-term growth.

US adds India, Thailand and Taiwan to currency manipulation watchlist

Thai researchers have unearthed a partially fossilised, rare skeleton of Bryde whale. The skeleton is believed to be around 5000 years old. It was found at an inland site west of Bangkok. A cyclist found the 12.5 metre long skeleton. The vertebrae were exposed from the ground. The discovery was made in early November. Excavation is going on since.

"This whale skeleton is thought to be the only one in Asia," said Pannipa Saetian, a geologist in the Fossil Protection division of the Department of Mineral Resources.

"It’s very rare to find such a discovery in near-perfect condition," said Pannipa, estimating that about 90% of the whale's skeleton had been recovered.

"Yesterday we found the right shoulder and fin," she said, noting that about 36 backbone pieces had been unearthed.

The bones needed to be carbon-dated in order to determine the exact age of the skeleton, she said.

Once the painstaking process of cleaning and preserving the fragile skeleton is complete it will be exhibited.

Scientists hope the skeleton will provide more information to aid research into Bryde's whale populations existing today as well as the geological conditions at the time.

Bryde's whales, sometimes known as tropical whales for their preference for warmer waters, are found in coastal waters in parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, including in the Gulf of Thailand.

(With Reuters inputs)

Thai researchers have unearthed a partially fossilised, rare skeleton of Bryde whale. The skeleton is believed to be around 5000 years old. It was found at an inland site west of Bangkok.

Thai researchers have unearthed a partially fossilised, rare skeleton of Bryde whale. The skeleton is believed to be around 5000 years old. It was found at an inland site west of Bangkok. A cyclist found the 12.5 metre long skeleton. The vertebrae were exposed from the ground. The discovery was made in early November. Excavation is going on since. "This whale skeleton is thought to be the only one in Asia," said Pannipa Saetian, a geologist in the Fossil Protection division of the Department of Mineral Resources. "It’s very rare to find such a discovery in near-perfect condition," said Pannipa, estimating that about 90% of the whale's skeleton had been recovered. "Yesterday we found the right shoulder and fin," she said, noting that about 36 backbone pieces had been unearthed. The bones needed to be carbon-dated in order to determine the exact age of the skeleton, she said. Once the painstaking process of cleaning and preserving the fragile skeleton is complete it will be exhibited. Scientists hope the skeleton will provide more information to aid research into Bryde's whale populations existing today as well as the geological conditions at the time. Bryde's whales, sometimes known as tropical whales for their preference for warmer waters, are found in coastal waters in parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, including in the Gulf of Thailand. (With Reuters inputs)

Thai researchers excavate rare whale skeleton

Twitter has suspended a Thai pro-royalist account linked to the palace that a Reuters analysis found was connected to thousands of others created in recent weeks spreading posts in favour of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and the monarchy.

The Reuters review found tens of thousands of tweets that an expert said appeared to be from accounts amplifying royalist messaging in a push to counter a months-long protest movement that has swelled from opposing the government to breaking a longstanding taboo by challenging the monarchy.

Internal army training documents reviewed by Reuters showed evidence of a coordinated information campaign designed to spread favourable information and discredit opponents.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-protesters-question-kings-control-over-military-units-346252">Thailand: Protesters question king's control over military units</a>

The pro-monarchy @jitarsa_school account was suspended after Reuters sought comment on Wednesday from Twitter on the recent royalist campaign on the social media platform, where protesters have long had a strong presence.

Protesters and royalists have cited the importance of social media in propelling the protest movement, which has become the biggest challenge in decades to the monarchy as well as the government of former junta leader Prayuth Chan-ocha.

Created in September, the @jitarsa_school account had more than 48,000 followers before its suspension.

“The account in question was suspended for violating our rules on spam and platform manipulation,” a Twitter representative said on Sunday. She said the suspension was in line with the company’s policies and not a result of the Reuters request for comment.

The account’s profile had said that it trained people for the Royal Volunteers programme, which is run by the Royal Office. A Facebook page for the Royal Volunteers School, which posts pro-monarchy videos and news of the programme, also identifies the Twitter account as its own.

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Neither the school nor the Royal Volunteers headquarters responded to requests for comment on the suspension. The “Volunteer Spirit 904” programme was established during the current king’s reign, which began in 2016, to build loyalty to the monarchy.

The palace did not respond to a request for comment. It has a policy of not speaking to media and has not commented since the start of protests in July that initially targeted the government before breaking taboos by calling for curbs to the king’s powers.

Royalist fightback

In recent weeks, royalist hashtags have begun trending on Twitter, an important platform for opponents of the government even before protests began in July.

The Reuters analysis found that more than 80% of the accounts following @jitarsa_school had also been created since the start of September. A sample of 4,600 of the recently created accounts showed that all they did was promote the royalist hashtags - an indication of the kind of activity that would not be associated with regular Twitter users.

A sample of 559 retweets of the account’s tweets were virtually all from accounts with bot-like characteristics, according to research by social media consultancy Drone Emprit for Reuters.

“Government forces have been trying to counter the protesters,” said Saijai Liangpunsakul of the independent Social Media Monitoring for Peace group. “Twitter has taken down some accounts, but there are many more.”

Hashtags promoted by the suspended account, usually alongside pictures of the king and other royals, included those that translate as: #StopViolatingTheMonarchy, #ProtectTheMonarchy, #WeLoveTheMotherOfTheLand, #WeLoveTheMonarchy and #MinionsLoveTheMonarchy.

Royalist group leader Warong Dechgitvigrom declined to comment on the account’s suspension, saying he was unaware of it.

He told Reuters there were more pro-monarchy messages on Twitter because royalists increasingly recognised the need to counter protesters’ messages and had encouraged each another to join the platform.

“Pro-monarchy hashtags are authentic, born out of true feelings,” he said.

Protestors accused by royalists

Royalists have accused protesters of inauthentic activity on Twitter, with coordinated campaigns around hashtags.

But Parit “Penguin” Chiwarak, one of the protest leaders, said protesters using the platform were genuine and he welcomed the suspension of the pro-royalist account.

“They’re not recruited to trend hashtags like the army and they don’t use taxpayers’ money,” he said.

Although not directly linked to the @jitarsa_school account, a 28-page army document reviewed by Reuters showed an organised information operation to target “opponents” and spread pro-monarchy messages on Twitter.

The document says 17,562 Twitter accounts run by 9,743 army officers are split into a “White Team” and a “Grey/Black Team” that were instructed to tweet with coordinated hashtags, as well as to like, retweet and follow one another.

The document suggests measures to appear more like authentic accounts.

The army on Saturday acknowledged the document is genuine, saying in a Facebook post it was used in a training session to strengthen the army’s public relations efforts.

In early October, Twitter announced it had taken down 926 accounts linked to the Thai army for violating its platform-manipulation policies by amplifying pro-government content and targeting political opposition figures.

The army at the time denied that the accounts belonged to army officials.

Twitter has suspended a Thai pro-royalist account linked to the palace that a Reuters analysis found was connected to thousands of others created in recent weeks spreading posts in favour of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and the monarchy.

Twitter has suspended a Thai pro-royalist account linked to the palace that a Reuters analysis found was connected to thousands of others created in recent weeks spreading posts in favour of King Maha Vajiralongkorn and the monarchy. The Reuters review found tens of thousands of tweets that an expert said appeared to be from accounts amplifying royalist messaging in a push to counter a months-long protest movement that has swelled from opposing the government to breaking a longstanding taboo by challenging the monarchy. Internal army training documents reviewed by Reuters showed evidence of a coordinated information campaign designed to spread favourable information and discredit opponents. Also read| Thailand: Protesters question king's control over military units The pro-monarchy @jitarsa_school account was suspended after Reuters sought comment on Wednesday from Twitter on the recent royalist campaign on the social media platform, where protesters have long had a strong presence. Protesters and royalists have cited the importance of social media in propelling the protest movement, which has become the biggest challenge in decades to the monarchy as well as the government of former junta leader Prayuth Chan-ocha. Created in September, the @jitarsa_school account had more than 48,000 followers before its suspension. “The account in question was suspended for violating our rules on spam and platform manipulation,” a Twitter representative said on Sunday. She said the suspension was in line with the company’s policies and not a result of the Reuters request for comment. The account’s profile had said that it trained people for the Royal Volunteers programme, which is run by the Royal Office. A Facebook page for the Royal Volunteers School, which posts pro-monarchy videos and news of the programme, also identifies the Twitter account as its own. × Neither the school nor the Royal Volunteers headquarters responded to requests for comment on the suspension. The “Volunteer Spirit 904” programme was established during the current king’s reign, which began in 2016, to build loyalty to the monarchy. The palace did not respond to a request for comment. It has a policy of not speaking to media and has not commented since the start of protests in July that initially targeted the government before breaking taboos by calling for curbs to the king’s powers. Royalist fightback In recent weeks, royalist hashtags have begun trending on Twitter, an important platform for opponents of the government even before protests began in July. The Reuters analysis found that more than 80% of the accounts following @jitarsa_school had also been created since the start of September. A sample of 4,600 of the recently created accounts showed that all they did was promote the royalist hashtags - an indication of the kind of activity that would not be associated with regular Twitter users. A sample of 559 retweets of the account’s tweets were virtually all from accounts with bot-like characteristics, according to research by social media consultancy Drone Emprit for Reuters. “Government forces have been trying to counter the protesters,” said Saijai Liangpunsakul of the independent Social Media Monitoring for Peace group. “Twitter has taken down some accounts, but there are many more.” Hashtags promoted by the suspended account, usually alongside pictures of the king and other royals, included those that translate as: #StopViolatingTheMonarchy, #ProtectTheMonarchy, #WeLoveTheMotherOfTheLand, #WeLoveTheMonarchy and #MinionsLoveTheMonarchy. Royalist group leader Warong Dechgitvigrom declined to comment on the account’s suspension, saying he was unaware of it. He told Reuters there were more pro-monarchy messages on Twitter because royalists increasingly recognised the need to counter protesters’ messages and had encouraged each another to join the platform. “Pro-monarchy hashtags are authentic, born out of true feelings,” he said. Protestors accused by royalists Royalists have accused protesters of inauthentic activity on Twitter, with coordinated campaigns around hashtags. But Parit “Penguin” Chiwarak, one of the protest leaders, said protesters using the platform were genuine and he welcomed the suspension of the pro-royalist account. “They’re not recruited to trend hashtags like the army and they don’t use taxpayers’ money,” he said. Although not directly linked to the @jitarsa_school account, a 28-page army document reviewed by Reuters showed an organised information operation to target “opponents” and spread pro-monarchy messages on Twitter. The document says 17,562 Twitter accounts run by 9,743 army officers are split into a “White Team” and a “Grey/Black Team” that were instructed to tweet with coordinated hashtags, as well as to like, retweet and follow one another. The document suggests measures to appear more like authentic accounts. The army on Saturday acknowledged the document is genuine, saying in a Facebook post it was used in a training session to strengthen the army’s public relations efforts. In early October, Twitter announced it had taken down 926 accounts linked to the Thai army for violating its platform-manipulation policies by amplifying pro-government content and targeting political opposition figures. The army at the time denied that the accounts belonged to army officials.

Twitter suspends Thai royalist account linked to influence campaign

There are certain constants in Thailand: the drenching monsoons, the grand openings of new shopping malls and the rumors that the Royal Thai Armed Forces are plotting another coup.

For weeks now, student-led protesters across Thailand have taken to the streets every few days, calling for a new constitution with authority over the monarchy, an end to the persecution of the political opposition and the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, the retired general who led the most recent military coup, in 2014.

Some earlier anti-government movements in Thailand were silenced by gunfire, with dozens killed most recently in 2010. While the security forces have not cracked down violently on these peaceful rallies, it’s unclear how long such restraint will last. Nor is it certain how long the army is willing to stay in the barracks, plotting against Prayuth, who was once one of their own.

Whenever the generals launch a coup, the refrain is the same: Thailand needs a return to order, without messy rallies or dissenting voices.

“I see a coup as not a bad thing,” said Sondhi Limthongkul, a prominent royalist. As recently as last week, Sondhi publicly called for yet another military intervention to restore stability and protect the monarchy, urging the military to quickly hand over power after seizing it so the king could oversee the formation of a unity government.

For the protesters, the military’s enduring power in a country that markets itself as a modern democracy is as alarming as it is anachronistic.

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The rallies have highlighted the military’s continuing grip on the country, its meddling in politics through coups and the ways it has profited from a deeply unequal society, securing economic benefits via vast business holdings. Most of all, the young demonstrators chafe at how conscription and other martial traditions are being used to try to create an orderly, obedient populace that hews to the military’s command.

Prayuth, the prime minister, said Friday that he could not determine whether “there will be a coup or there won’t be a coup.” But he added, “no one wants to do it; no one wants to stage one.”

Political analysts noted that coup denials have often grown louder as planning for them intensifies. Over the past nine decades, the Thai military has tried to oust elected governments about 30 times. At least a dozen of these putsches have been successful.

“The empire will strike back,” said Paul Chambers, author of the upcoming book “Camouflaged Khakistocracy: Civil-Military Relations in Thailand.” “The military, and all the vested interests that are being threatened by the student protesters, they aren’t going to allow the end of hegemonic military capitalism.”

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The Thai military is the country’s largest landowner, apart from the forestry bureau’s national park holdings. It has created a sort of parallel state with its own internal security apparatus that has brought thousands of dissenters to its military bases for enforced “attitude adjustment” sessions. It appoints all 250 members of the Senate.

Military regimentation — uniforms, hierarchies and unquestioning discipline — has become a societal expectation, from schools to parts of the Civil Service. The military has also profited from defense budgets that have increased roughly 140% since 2006, the year of yet another coup.

The outsize influence of the Royal Thai Armed Forces stands in contrast to its diminished role on the battlefield. Despite a top brass that includes about 1,600 generals, the second highest in the world per capita, Thai soldiers have not fought in a major engagement on home turf since World War II. Thailand does not face serious external security threats, and a defense alliance with the United States ensures safekeeping by the world’s largest military.

The Thai military has instead fashioned itself as a guardian against internal discord, most of all threats to the nation’s other powerful institution: the monarchy. The last two coups, in 2014 and 2006, were justified as necessary to protect the palace, even though the royal family, one of the richest in the world, can count on a raft of laws designed to shield it from criticism.

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For the first time since absolute monarchy was abolished in 1932, King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun is now facing sustained calls from protesters for his powers to be curbed. Since inheriting the throne in 2016, he has lived most of the time in Germany, with taxpayer money funding his lavish lifestyle. The king is now back in Thailand, attending public events in military uniform.

“The military is the only institution that can sustain the power of the king,” Chambers said. “And the monarchy gives legitimacy to the military and blesses each of the coups.”

This symbiotic relationship between the military and the monarch was underscored in September when Apirat Kongsompong, commander in chief of the Royal Thai Army, retired from the military only to be immediately appointed vice chamberlain of the palace’s Royal Household Bureau.

“The royal institution, the military and people are inseparable,” Apirat said in a speech last year.

The current protest movement began earlier this year when students spoke out against regimented school rules, such as grooming regulations and expectations that they prostrate themselves before their superiors.

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The demonstrations also encompassed urban, educated Thais who felt their political aspirations were thwarted when a new party called Future Forward was ordered to dissolve by the Constitutional Court in February, a decision rights groups said was politically motivated. Future Forward had campaigned on slashing the defense budget and ending military conscription. It finished third in the elections last year, a surprisingly strong showing for a neophyte political force.

“The real reason for conscription is that they need the personnel so they can control the society,” said Pongsakorn Rodchomphu, a leading member of the Progressive Movement, which replaced Future Forward after its dissolution.

“We need to reform the military to be professional soldiers who don’t have time to do politics,” Pongsakorn, a retired lieutenant general, added. “This kind of atmosphere in Thailand, where we have to ask the commander in chief, not the politicians, for help, it’s not civilized; it’s not modern.”

In October, Gen. Narongpan Jittkaewtae took command as the new army chief and addressed the coup rumors.

“The chance of making a coup is zero as long as there are no groups that create a situation or a violent conflict,” he said. He did not specify what would happen if such groups were thought to exist.

There are certain constants in Thailand: the drenching monsoons, the grand openings of new shopping malls and the rumors that the Royal Thai Armed Forces are plotting another coup.

There are certain constants in Thailand: the drenching monsoons, the grand openings of new shopping malls and the rumors that the Royal Thai Armed Forces are plotting another coup. For weeks now, student-led protesters across Thailand have taken to the streets every few days, calling for a new constitution with authority over the monarchy, an end to the persecution of the political opposition and the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, the retired general who led the most recent military coup, in 2014. Some earlier anti-government movements in Thailand were silenced by gunfire, with dozens killed most recently in 2010. While the security forces have not cracked down violently on these peaceful rallies, it’s unclear how long such restraint will last. Nor is it certain how long the army is willing to stay in the barracks, plotting against Prayuth, who was once one of their own. Whenever the generals launch a coup, the refrain is the same: Thailand needs a return to order, without messy rallies or dissenting voices. “I see a coup as not a bad thing,” said Sondhi Limthongkul, a prominent royalist. As recently as last week, Sondhi publicly called for yet another military intervention to restore stability and protect the monarchy, urging the military to quickly hand over power after seizing it so the king could oversee the formation of a unity government. For the protesters, the military’s enduring power in a country that markets itself as a modern democracy is as alarming as it is anachronistic. × The rallies have highlighted the military’s continuing grip on the country, its meddling in politics through coups and the ways it has profited from a deeply unequal society, securing economic benefits via vast business holdings. Most of all, the young demonstrators chafe at how conscription and other martial traditions are being used to try to create an orderly, obedient populace that hews to the military’s command. Prayuth, the prime minister, said Friday that he could not determine whether “there will be a coup or there won’t be a coup.” But he added, “no one wants to do it; no one wants to stage one.” Political analysts noted that coup denials have often grown louder as planning for them intensifies. Over the past nine decades, the Thai military has tried to oust elected governments about 30 times. At least a dozen of these putsches have been successful. “The empire will strike back,” said Paul Chambers, author of the upcoming book “Camouflaged Khakistocracy: Civil-Military Relations in Thailand.” “The military, and all the vested interests that are being threatened by the student protesters, they aren’t going to allow the end of hegemonic military capitalism.” Also read| Thai protesters conduct 'fashion show' mocking royal spending The Thai military is the country’s largest landowner, apart from the forestry bureau’s national park holdings. It has created a sort of parallel state with its own internal security apparatus that has brought thousands of dissenters to its military bases for enforced “attitude adjustment” sessions. It appoints all 250 members of the Senate. Military regimentation — uniforms, hierarchies and unquestioning discipline — has become a societal expectation, from schools to parts of the Civil Service. The military has also profited from defense budgets that have increased roughly 140% since 2006, the year of yet another coup. The outsize influence of the Royal Thai Armed Forces stands in contrast to its diminished role on the battlefield. Despite a top brass that includes about 1,600 generals, the second highest in the world per capita, Thai soldiers have not fought in a major engagement on home turf since World War II. Thailand does not face serious external security threats, and a defense alliance with the United States ensures safekeeping by the world’s largest military. The Thai military has instead fashioned itself as a guardian against internal discord, most of all threats to the nation’s other powerful institution: the monarchy. The last two coups, in 2014 and 2006, were justified as necessary to protect the palace, even though the royal family, one of the richest in the world, can count on a raft of laws designed to shield it from criticism. Also read: Thai protesters demand PM resignation with 'Hunger Games' salute For the first time since absolute monarchy was abolished in 1932, King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun is now facing sustained calls from protesters for his powers to be curbed. Since inheriting the throne in 2016, he has lived most of the time in Germany, with taxpayer money funding his lavish lifestyle. The king is now back in Thailand, attending public events in military uniform. “The military is the only institution that can sustain the power of the king,” Chambers said. “And the monarchy gives legitimacy to the military and blesses each of the coups.” This symbiotic relationship between the military and the monarch was underscored in September when Apirat Kongsompong, commander in chief of the Royal Thai Army, retired from the military only to be immediately appointed vice chamberlain of the palace’s Royal Household Bureau. “The royal institution, the military and people are inseparable,” Apirat said in a speech last year. The current protest movement began earlier this year when students spoke out against regimented school rules, such as grooming regulations and expectations that they prostrate themselves before their superiors. Also read: Plaque design defying Thai monarchy turned into Instagram filters, merchandise The demonstrations also encompassed urban, educated Thais who felt their political aspirations were thwarted when a new party called Future Forward was ordered to dissolve by the Constitutional Court in February, a decision rights groups said was politically motivated. Future Forward had campaigned on slashing the defense budget and ending military conscription. It finished third in the elections last year, a surprisingly strong showing for a neophyte political force. “The real reason for conscription is that they need the personnel so they can control the society,” said Pongsakorn Rodchomphu, a leading member of the Progressive Movement, which replaced Future Forward after its dissolution. “We need to reform the military to be professional soldiers who don’t have time to do politics,” Pongsakorn, a retired lieutenant general, added. “This kind of atmosphere in Thailand, where we have to ask the commander in chief, not the politicians, for help, it’s not civilized; it’s not modern.” In October, Gen. Narongpan Jittkaewtae took command as the new army chief and addressed the coup rumors. “The chance of making a coup is zero as long as there are no groups that create a situation or a violent conflict,” he said. He did not specify what would happen if such groups were thought to exist.

Almost like clockwork, talk of a military coup follows Thai protests

The Thai King made his first public comments on the pro-democracy demonstrations that have gripped the country for more than four months during a royal function at the Grand Palace in Bangkok on Sunday.

Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn said “we love them all the same” of the protesters who have sought to curb his powers, and called Thailand “the land of compromise”.

The king responded to questions from Channel 4 News during a walkabout with thousands of yellow-shirted royalists, putting on their biggest show of support since the start of protests that also seek the removal of the government.

When asked what he would say to the protesters, the king said “We love them all the same.”

Asked whether there was any room for compromise with protesters who are demanding a curb on his powers, Vajiralongkorn said that, "Thailand is the land of compromise."

This is the first time that the 68-year-old monarch has spoken to foreign media since 1979 when he was Crown Prince.

The Palace has made no official comment on protests that began by seeking the departure of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha before breaking a longstanding taboo by calling for curbs on the king’s powers.

Protesters have been wanting to reverse changes that gave him personal control of some army units and a palace fortune valued in the tens of billions of dollars. They criticise the king’s long stays in Germany as wasteful and accuse the monarchy of enabling decades of army domination by accepting coups such as the one in which Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha took power in 2014.

The biggest protests have drawn tens of thousands of people. There was no official estimate for Sunday’s crowd. Reuters journalists estimated the number at more than 10,000.

Royalist leader Warong Dechgitvigrom, who has been trying to rally people to counter the protesters, said the king had told him to “help get the truth out”.

Prayuth’s government banned protests last month and arrested many of the best known leaders, but the emergency measures were cancelled after they backfired by drawing many more people onto Bangkok streets.

Three high-profile protest leaders were hospitalised over the weekend after police said they were being re-arrested at the expiry of the limit to their detention. One of them passed out in police custody in scenes that angered protesters.

Prayuth has said he will not resign and rejects accusations that elections last year were engineered for his benefit.

(with inputs)

The Thai King made his first public comments on the pro-democracy demonstrations that have gripped the country for more than four months during a royal function at the Grand Palace in Bangkok on Sunday.

The Thai King made his first public comments on the pro-democracy demonstrations that have gripped the country for more than four months during a royal function at the Grand Palace in Bangkok on Sunday. Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn said “we love them all the same” of the protesters who have sought to curb his powers, and called Thailand “the land of compromise”. The king responded to questions from Channel 4 News during a walkabout with thousands of yellow-shirted royalists, putting on their biggest show of support since the start of protests that also seek the removal of the government. When asked what he would say to the protesters, the king said “We love them all the same.” Asked whether there was any room for compromise with protesters who are demanding a curb on his powers, Vajiralongkorn said that, "Thailand is the land of compromise." This is the first time that the 68-year-old monarch has spoken to foreign media since 1979 when he was Crown Prince. The Palace has made no official comment on protests that began by seeking the departure of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha before breaking a longstanding taboo by calling for curbs on the king’s powers. Protesters have been wanting to reverse changes that gave him personal control of some army units and a palace fortune valued in the tens of billions of dollars. They criticise the king’s long stays in Germany as wasteful and accuse the monarchy of enabling decades of army domination by accepting coups such as the one in which Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha took power in 2014. The biggest protests have drawn tens of thousands of people. There was no official estimate for Sunday’s crowd. Reuters journalists estimated the number at more than 10,000. Royalist leader Warong Dechgitvigrom, who has been trying to rally people to counter the protesters, said the king had told him to “help get the truth out”. Prayuth’s government banned protests last month and arrested many of the best known leaders, but the emergency measures were cancelled after they backfired by drawing many more people onto Bangkok streets. Three high-profile protest leaders were hospitalised over the weekend after police said they were being re-arrested at the expiry of the limit to their detention. One of them passed out in police custody in scenes that angered protesters. Prayuth has said he will not resign and rejects accusations that elections last year were engineered for his benefit. (with inputs)

Thai king addresses protesters in rare public comments, says still loves them

Thailand's playboy King Maha Vajiralongkorn was secretly rushed to hospital after his bodyguard tested positive for coronavirus, reported New York Post. He was rushed to a hospital in Bangkok in early hours of Wednesday. As per media reports, the bodyguard contracted the deadly virus after the king's entourage flew to Thailand recently.

It has not yet been confirmed whether the king's illness is coronavirus related. But employees of the hospital where the king received the treatment were told to remain tightlipped about his illness.

King Vajiralongkorn recently returned to Thailand to mark the fourth anniversary of his father King Bhumibol's death anniversary.

King Vajiralongkorn has a reputation of being a playboy.

he actually spent much of his childhood outside Thailand. He was sent to school in England from ages 13 to 17, before enrolling at military college in Australia until 1976.

Despite his military training, there were questions of whether the prince was fit to rule. Rumors of gambling, womanizing, and associating with illegal businesses reported plagued the prince's reputation.

A few years ago he had been photographed cycling in a crop top in Switzerland and Germany. When a photo of the king was posted on Facebook he threatened to sue the company, saying the images were insulting.

After his father passed away in October 2016, the prince ascended Thailand's throne and became King Rama X, the 10th monarch of his royal house.

He has been married four times and has 20 mistresses. He has assets worth 43 billion dollars under his control.

Thailand's playboy King Maha Vajiralongkorn was secretly rushed to hospital after his bodyguard tested positive for coronavirus, reported New York Post. He was rushed to a hospital in Bangkok in early hours of Wednesday.

Thailand's playboy King Maha Vajiralongkorn was secretly rushed to hospital after his bodyguard tested positive for coronavirus, reported New York Post. He was rushed to a hospital in Bangkok in early hours of Wednesday. As per media reports, the bodyguard contracted the deadly virus after the king's entourage flew to Thailand recently. It has not yet been confirmed whether the king's illness is coronavirus related. But employees of the hospital where the king received the treatment were told to remain tightlipped about his illness. King Vajiralongkorn recently returned to Thailand to mark the fourth anniversary of his father King Bhumibol's death anniversary. King Vajiralongkorn has a reputation of being a playboy. he actually spent much of his childhood outside Thailand. He was sent to school in England from ages 13 to 17, before enrolling at military college in Australia until 1976. Despite his military training, there were questions of whether the prince was fit to rule. Rumors of gambling, womanizing, and associating with illegal businesses reported plagued the prince's reputation. A few years ago he had been photographed cycling in a crop top in Switzerland and Germany. When a photo of the king was posted on Facebook he threatened to sue the company, saying the images were insulting. After his father passed away in October 2016, the prince ascended Thailand's throne and became King Rama X, the 10th monarch of his royal house. He has been married four times and has 20 mistresses. He has assets worth 43 billion dollars under his control.

Thailand's playboy king rushed to hospital after bodyguard's positive COVID test

Anti-government protesters in Thailand said on Saturday they would hold demonstrations on Sunday and Monday after Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha ignored their 10 p.m. (0300 GMT) deadline to resign.

Asked by journalists whether he would stand down, Prayuth simply said "won`t quit" after Buddhist prayers that were held to call for national healing following months of protests that have also demanded reforms of the monarchy.

After the deadline expired, one group of protesters said they would protest on Sunday. Another group said they would go to the German embassy on Monday - making an indirect reference to the fact that the king spends much of his time in Germany.

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"Prayuth is the problem. The first obstacle that we need to remove," said Jatupat “Pai” Boonpattararaksa, one of the leaders of the demonstration planned for Sunday. He was among dozens of protesters arrested this month and was freed on bail on Friday.

Since July, protesters have been demanding the departure of Prayuth and a new constitution. More recently they have also stepped up demands for reforms to curb the powers of King Maha Vajiralongkorn`s monarchy.

Prayuth, who first took power in a 2014 coup, rejects the accusations of his critics that he engineered last year`s election to keep power.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-pm-prayut-revokes-emergency-measures-amid-protests-337042">Also read|&nbsp;Thailand PM Prayut revokes emergency measures amid protests</a>

After the prayers he said: "I urge everyone to conciliate and help solve problems together."

He has called for an emergency session of parliament on Monday and Tuesday to try to resolve the crisis, but his opponents have little faith in the outcome given his supporters have a parliamentary majority.

The king has made no public comment on the protests but his praise on Friday for a man who held up a royal portrait at an anti-establishment rally stirred passions - with monarchists lauding the action and protesters pouring scorn.

Anti-government protesters in Thailand said on Saturday they would hold demonstrations on Sunday and Monday after Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha ignored their 10 p.

Anti-government protesters in Thailand said on Saturday they would hold demonstrations on Sunday and Monday after Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha ignored their 10 p.m. (0300 GMT) deadline to resign. Asked by journalists whether he would stand down, Prayuth simply said "won`t quit" after Buddhist prayers that were held to call for national healing following months of protests that have also demanded reforms of the monarchy. After the deadline expired, one group of protesters said they would protest on Sunday. Another group said they would go to the German embassy on Monday - making an indirect reference to the fact that the king spends much of his time in Germany. Have a look| Thailand's billionaire King Vajiralongkorn & his colourful life "Prayuth is the problem. The first obstacle that we need to remove," said Jatupat “Pai” Boonpattararaksa, one of the leaders of the demonstration planned for Sunday. He was among dozens of protesters arrested this month and was freed on bail on Friday. Since July, protesters have been demanding the departure of Prayuth and a new constitution. More recently they have also stepped up demands for reforms to curb the powers of King Maha Vajiralongkorn`s monarchy. Prayuth, who first took power in a 2014 coup, rejects the accusations of his critics that he engineered last year`s election to keep power. Also read| Thailand PM Prayut revokes emergency measures amid protests After the prayers he said: "I urge everyone to conciliate and help solve problems together." He has called for an emergency session of parliament on Monday and Tuesday to try to resolve the crisis, but his opponents have little faith in the outcome given his supporters have a parliamentary majority. The king has made no public comment on the protests but his praise on Friday for a man who held up a royal portrait at an anti-establishment rally stirred passions - with monarchists lauding the action and protesters pouring scorn.

Thailand protesters plan action after PM ignores deadline to quit

As the protests against the government and the royal family are increasing in Thailand, Prime Minister&nbsp;Prayuth Chan-ocha has declared that he is planning to lift the emergency measures that had been imposed last week.

The government had claimed that the state imposed restrictions such as a limit on&nbsp;maximum people allowed to gather and social distancing to contain the spread of coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-government-shuts-news-site-linked-to-ex-pm-amid-protests-336771">Also read|&nbsp;Thai government shuts news site linked to ex-PM amid protests</a>

However, the locals believe this is the PM's way of silencing the rising voices against him.&nbsp;

"I will make the first move to de-escalate this situation. I am currently preparing to lift the state of severe emergency in Bangkok and will do so promptly if there are no violent incidents," he said in an address to the nation.

The measures he talked about was a limit on political and public gatherings of&nbsp;five or more people and the publication of information deemed to threaten security.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fight-against-crown-thailand-locals-stages-biggest-pro-democracy-protest-in-bangkok-335894">Have a look|&nbsp;Fight against crown: Thailand locals stages biggest pro-democracy protest in Bangkok</a>

"We must now step back from the edge of the slippery slope that can easily slide to chaos," Prayuth added.

However, the protestors are not happy with this. The&nbsp;Thai protest leader, Tattep Ruangprapaikitseree, said he and other protesters want the Prime Minister to resign, and not just lift the restrictions.

"Prayuth must resign first and that is the easiest thing to do,"&nbsp;Ruangprapaikitseree said.

The protestors have accused the PM of manipulating the elections held last year to continue his power in the office. He has also been accused of helping the royal family use the military to their own use.

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Prayuth, now, is asking the protestors to draw back their protests and discuss the raised points in the parliament"The protesters have made their voices and views heard," Prayuth said. "It is now time for them to let their views be reconciled with the views of other segments of Thai society."

As the protests against the government and the royal family are increasing in Thailand, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has declared that he is planning to lift the emergency measures that had been imposed last week.

As the protests against the government and the royal family are increasing in Thailand, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has declared that he is planning to lift the emergency measures that had been imposed last week. The government had claimed that the state imposed restrictions such as a limit on maximum people allowed to gather and social distancing to contain the spread of coronavirus. Also read| Thai government shuts news site linked to ex-PM amid protests However, the locals believe this is the PM's way of silencing the rising voices against him. "I will make the first move to de-escalate this situation. I am currently preparing to lift the state of severe emergency in Bangkok and will do so promptly if there are no violent incidents," he said in an address to the nation. The measures he talked about was a limit on political and public gatherings of five or more people and the publication of information deemed to threaten security. Have a look| Fight against crown: Thailand locals stages biggest pro-democracy protest in Bangkok "We must now step back from the edge of the slippery slope that can easily slide to chaos," Prayuth added. However, the protestors are not happy with this. The Thai protest leader, Tattep Ruangprapaikitseree, said he and other protesters want the Prime Minister to resign, and not just lift the restrictions. "Prayuth must resign first and that is the easiest thing to do," Ruangprapaikitseree said. The protestors have accused the PM of manipulating the elections held last year to continue his power in the office. He has also been accused of helping the royal family use the military to their own use. × Prayuth, now, is asking the protestors to draw back their protests and discuss the raised points in the parliament"The protesters have made their voices and views heard," Prayuth said. "It is now time for them to let their views be reconciled with the views of other segments of Thai society."

Thailand's PM Prayuth Chan-ocha ready to lift lockdown; protestors demand resignation

Fight against crown: Thailand locals stages biggest pro-democracy protest in Bangkok

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Peaceful transfer, I absolutely want it, says Trump at town hall meeting On the question of herd immunity as a strategy, Trump said: 'The cure cannot be worse than the problem itself.

Peaceful transfer, I absolutely want it, says Trump at town hall meeting On the question of herd immunity as a strategy, Trump said: 'The cure cannot be worse than the problem itself. We did the right thing." ..Read More Thousands protest in Bangkok, defy Thai government's emergency decree The protesters have decided to return as student leader Jutatip Sirikhan called everyone at 5 pm on Friday...Read More US should stop using Tibet to interfere in our internal affairs: China The Trump administration had appointed Robert Destro as the "special coordinator" on Tibetan issues amid tension between China and the US...Read More Twitter service restored following global platform outage The outage marked a new setback for the company, which for the past two days has been fending off accusations of bias over its decision to block a news report critical of Democratic White House candidate Joe Biden..Read More Kamala Harris suspends travel plans: Harris shared flight with 2 people who later tested positive ×

Morning news brief: Trump talks of peaceful transfer, protesters defy Thai govt & more

A collision between a bus and a train killed at least 17 people on Sunday. The accident took place about 50 kilometres east of Bangkok. Number of casualties is expected to rise. The bus passengers were on their way to a temple in Chachoengsao province.&nbsp;

"The death toll we have so far is 17," a police officer told AFP. The accident occured around 8 am local time (0100 GMT). Provincial governor said that about 29 people were injured.

Early images by rescue workers showed gnarled metal and debris, with bodies lying by the train tracks and people's belongings scattered.

The bus overturned on its side and the top of it was ripped off.

Such deadly accidents are common in Thailand, which regularly tops lists of the world's most lethal roads, with speeding, drunk driving and weak law enforcement all contributing factors.

According to a 2018 report by the World Health Organization, Thailand has the second-highest traffic fatality rate in the world.

Though a majority of the victims are motorcyclists, bus crashes involving groups of tourists and migrant labourers often grab headlines.

In March 2018, at least 18 people were killed and dozens wounded when a bus carrying people returning from holiday in northeastern Thailand swerved off the road and smashed into a tree.

(With AFP inputs)

A collision between a bus and a train killed at least 17 people on Sunday. The accident took place about 50 kilometres east of Bangkok. Number of casualties is expected to rise.

A collision between a bus and a train killed at least 17 people on Sunday. The accident took place about 50 kilometres east of Bangkok. Number of casualties is expected to rise. The bus passengers were on their way to a temple in Chachoengsao province. "The death toll we have so far is 17," a police officer told AFP. The accident occured around 8 am local time (0100 GMT). Provincial governor said that about 29 people were injured. Early images by rescue workers showed gnarled metal and debris, with bodies lying by the train tracks and people's belongings scattered. The bus overturned on its side and the top of it was ripped off. Such deadly accidents are common in Thailand, which regularly tops lists of the world's most lethal roads, with speeding, drunk driving and weak law enforcement all contributing factors. According to a 2018 report by the World Health Organization, Thailand has the second-highest traffic fatality rate in the world. Though a majority of the victims are motorcyclists, bus crashes involving groups of tourists and migrant labourers often grab headlines. In March 2018, at least 18 people were killed and dozens wounded when a bus carrying people returning from holiday in northeastern Thailand swerved off the road and smashed into a tree. (With AFP inputs)

Thailand: Collision between bus and train claims 17 lives

Thailand's army has denied using Twitter to promote personal agenda and spread misinformation about their political opposition.

Twitter suspended nearly 926 accounts for violating its manipulation policies. Apparently, all these accounts were linked to the Royal Thai Army (RTA)

These accounts were reportedly linked to the Thai Army and were targeting their political oppositions.

"These accounts were engaging in amplifying pro-RTA and pro-government content, as well as engaging in behaviour targeting prominent political opposition figures," it said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-interpol-issues-red-notice-for-red-bull-heirs-arrest-332627">Also read|&nbsp;Thailand: Interpol issues 'red notice' for Red Bull heir's arrest</a>

Thailand's army has, however, declined all these allegations.&nbsp;"The issue of information operations is a misunderstanding. We don`t do this. It`s not one of our objectives for using Twitter," said&nbsp;Deputy Army Spokeswoman Sirichan Ngathong.

She also said that all these suspended accounts were anonymous and did not belong to the army as the RTA only has one official account.

As per the data provided from Twitter, nearly two-thirds of these accounts had no followers and had very less activity

A study by Stanford Internet Observatory, a research group at Stanford University, said more than half of the accounts never tweeted and most of the tweets had no engagement. "This was a coordinated but low-impact operation," it said in an analysis.

The controversy has been a direct result for Thailand Army's rule in the country from 2014 till 2019&nbsp;when junta leader Prayuth Chan-ocha stayed on as prime minister,&nbsp;rejecting the complaints of critics that the ballot was a facade to keep the military's hands on power.

Twitter also took down accounts it said were linked to the governments of Iran, Saudi Arabia, Cuba, and Russia.

Thailand's army has denied using Twitter to promote personal agenda and spread misinformation about their political opposition. Twitter suspended nearly 926 accounts for violating its manipulation policies.

Thailand's army has denied using Twitter to promote personal agenda and spread misinformation about their political opposition. Twitter suspended nearly 926 accounts for violating its manipulation policies. Apparently, all these accounts were linked to the Royal Thai Army (RTA) These accounts were reportedly linked to the Thai Army and were targeting their political oppositions. "These accounts were engaging in amplifying pro-RTA and pro-government content, as well as engaging in behaviour targeting prominent political opposition figures," it said in a statement. Also read| Thailand: Interpol issues 'red notice' for Red Bull heir's arrest Thailand's army has, however, declined all these allegations. "The issue of information operations is a misunderstanding. We don`t do this. It`s not one of our objectives for using Twitter," said Deputy Army Spokeswoman Sirichan Ngathong. She also said that all these suspended accounts were anonymous and did not belong to the army as the RTA only has one official account. As per the data provided from Twitter, nearly two-thirds of these accounts had no followers and had very less activity A study by Stanford Internet Observatory, a research group at Stanford University, said more than half of the accounts never tweeted and most of the tweets had no engagement. "This was a coordinated but low-impact operation," it said in an analysis. The controversy has been a direct result for Thailand Army's rule in the country from 2014 till 2019 when junta leader Prayuth Chan-ocha stayed on as prime minister, rejecting the complaints of critics that the ballot was a facade to keep the military's hands on power. Twitter also took down accounts it said were linked to the governments of Iran, Saudi Arabia, Cuba, and Russia.

Thailand's Army denies spreading misinformation after Twitter suspends 926 accounts

The Interpol has issued a "red notice" for the Red Bull heir&nbsp;Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya who is now classified as a fugitive after being involved in a hit-and-run case.

Yoovidhya crashed his Ferrari in 2012 and ended up critically injuring a police officer — who died later. He ran from the scene of crime and all charges against him were dropped in July. This had created a lot of uproar and outrage in Thailand — a country infamous for letting the elite class go free.

National Police deputy spokesman Colonel Kissana Phathanacharoen has confirmed that they have received the "red notice" from the Interpol earlier this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thailand-launches-another-probe-in-red-bull-heirs-hit-and-run-318109">Also read:&nbsp;Thailand launches another probe in Red Bull heir's 'hit-and-run'</a>

"After we received the confirmation, we then passed our request to 194 member countries asking for assistance from them," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"We have to do whatever it takes to... ultimately bring him back to the country because it is a serious crime."

Yoovidhya is guilty of a hit-and-run case, murder of a police officer and usage of cocaine. He had, however, fled his country through a private jet in 2017 and has been in hiding ever since.

After charges against him were dropped in July, a probe conducted by Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha's office concluded the entire investigation had been "compromised".

The red notice has been issued after the public outcry and protests against the ritual of saving the Thai elites. However, the notice is not visible on Interpol's website yet, AFP claimed.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Interpol has issued a "red notice" for the Red Bull heir Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya who is now classified as a fugitive after being involved in a hit-and-run case.

The Interpol has issued a "red notice" for the Red Bull heir Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya who is now classified as a fugitive after being involved in a hit-and-run case. Yoovidhya crashed his Ferrari in 2012 and ended up critically injuring a police officer — who died later. He ran from the scene of crime and all charges against him were dropped in July. This had created a lot of uproar and outrage in Thailand — a country infamous for letting the elite class go free. National Police deputy spokesman Colonel Kissana Phathanacharoen has confirmed that they have received the "red notice" from the Interpol earlier this week. Also read: Thailand launches another probe in Red Bull heir's 'hit-and-run' "After we received the confirmation, we then passed our request to 194 member countries asking for assistance from them," he told AFP. "We have to do whatever it takes to... ultimately bring him back to the country because it is a serious crime." Yoovidhya is guilty of a hit-and-run case, murder of a police officer and usage of cocaine. He had, however, fled his country through a private jet in 2017 and has been in hiding ever since. After charges against him were dropped in July, a probe conducted by Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha's office concluded the entire investigation had been "compromised". The red notice has been issued after the public outcry and protests against the ritual of saving the Thai elites. However, the notice is not visible on Interpol's website yet, AFP claimed. (With inputs from agencies)

Thailand: Interpol issues 'red notice' for Red Bull heir's arrest

A plaque placed by Thai pro-democracy protesters near the Grand Palace in Bangkok that declared that Thailand belongs to the people and not the king has been removed.

The plaque was placed on Sunday after a weekend rally by tens of thousands of people who cheered calls for reforms to the monarchy of King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

It was, however, not removed by the police.

"I’ve received a report that the plaque is gone but I don’t know how and I don’t know who did it," Bangkok’s deputy police chief Piya Tawichai told Reuters.

"Police are checking with the BMA (Bangkok Metropolitan Administration) and checking who took it out as the plaque is part of the evidence to charge the protest group (for this wrongdoing),” Piya said.

After the protest, people had queued up to take pictures next to the plaque, which also features a hand giving the three-finger salute adopted by pro-democracy protesters.

Protesters have grown ever bolder during two months of demonstrations against Thailand`s palace and military-dominated establishment, breaking a longstanding taboo on criticising the monarchy - which is illegal under lese majeste laws.

Shortly after sunrise on Sunday, protesters had cemented a plaque near the Grand Palace in Bangkok in the area known as Sanam Luang, or Royal Field.

It read, "At this place the people have expressed their will: that this country belongs to the people and is not the property of the monarch as they have deceived us."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-protesters-challenge-monarchy-as-huge-protests-escalate-328793">ALSO READ | Thai protesters challenge monarchy as huge protests escalate</a>

Protests that began on university campuses have drawn increasing numbers of older people. That includes red shirt followers of ousted populist prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra who had clashed for years with pro-establishment yellow shirts before Prayuth seized power in 2014.

Protesters say the constitution gives the king too much power and that it was engineered to allow Prayuth to keep power after elections last year. He says that vote was fair.

The next protest is scheduled for Thursday. Protest leaders called on Thais to take Oct. 14 off work to show their support for change.

(with inputs from agencies)

A plaque placed by Thai pro-democracy protesters near the Grand Palace in Bangkok that declared that Thailand belongs to the people and not the king has been removed.

A plaque placed by Thai pro-democracy protesters near the Grand Palace in Bangkok that declared that Thailand belongs to the people and not the king has been removed. The plaque was placed on Sunday after a weekend rally by tens of thousands of people who cheered calls for reforms to the monarchy of King Maha Vajiralongkorn. It was, however, not removed by the police. "I’ve received a report that the plaque is gone but I don’t know how and I don’t know who did it," Bangkok’s deputy police chief Piya Tawichai told Reuters. "Police are checking with the BMA (Bangkok Metropolitan Administration) and checking who took it out as the plaque is part of the evidence to charge the protest group (for this wrongdoing),” Piya said. After the protest, people had queued up to take pictures next to the plaque, which also features a hand giving the three-finger salute adopted by pro-democracy protesters. Protesters have grown ever bolder during two months of demonstrations against Thailand`s palace and military-dominated establishment, breaking a longstanding taboo on criticising the monarchy - which is illegal under lese majeste laws. Shortly after sunrise on Sunday, protesters had cemented a plaque near the Grand Palace in Bangkok in the area known as Sanam Luang, or Royal Field. It read, "At this place the people have expressed their will: that this country belongs to the people and is not the property of the monarch as they have deceived us." ALSO READ | Thai protesters challenge monarchy as huge protests escalate Protests that began on university campuses have drawn increasing numbers of older people. That includes red shirt followers of ousted populist prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra who had clashed for years with pro-establishment yellow shirts before Prayuth seized power in 2014. Protesters say the constitution gives the king too much power and that it was engineered to allow Prayuth to keep power after elections last year. He says that vote was fair. The next protest is scheduled for Thursday. Protest leaders called on Thais to take Oct. 14 off work to show their support for change. (with inputs from agencies)

Thai protesters’ plaque removed from near palace, police says

Openly challenging the monarchy of Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn, thousands of protesters marched in Bangkok on Sunday to present demands that include a call for reforms to curb his powers.

Protesters have grown ever bolder during two months of demonstrations against Thailand`s palace and military-dominated establishment, breaking a longstanding taboo on criticising the monarchy - which is illegal under lese majeste laws.

The Royal Palace was not immediately available for comment. The king, who spends much of his time in Europe, is not in Thailand now.

The marchers were blocked by hundreds of unarmed police manning crowd control barriers.

Protest leaders declared victory after handing police a letter detailing their demands. Phakphong Phongphetra, head of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, said on a video broadcast from the scene that the letter would be handed to police headquarters to decide how to proceed.

"Our greatest victory in the two days is showing that ordinary people like us can send a letter to royals," Parit "Penguin" Chiwarak, told the crowd before it dispersed.

At the biggest demonstration in years, tens of thousands of protesters on Saturday cheered calls for reform of the monarchy as well as for the removal of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, a former junta leader, and a new constitution and elections.

SYMBOLIC PLAQUE

Shortly after sunrise on Sunday, protesters cemented a plaque near the Grand Palace in Bangkok in the area known as Sanam Luang, or Royal Field.

It reads, "At this place the people have expressed their will: that this country belongs to the people and is not the property of the monarch as they have deceived us."

Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said police would not use violence against protesters and it was up to the police to determine and prosecute any illegal speech.

Bangkok authorities would need to determine whether the plaque is illegal and if it is it would need to be removed, Bangkok`s deputy police chief Piya Tawichai told reporters.

Far from all Thais support the new plaque, which resembles one that had commemorated the end of absolute monarchy in 1932 and which was removed from outside a royal palace in 2017, after Vajiralongkorn took the throne.

"Who voted or elected them to deface public property like this?" wrote Somchai Chaihat on Twitter of the new plaque.

"Trash it."

Thai authorities have said criticising the monarchy is unacceptable in a country where the king is constitutionally "enthroned in a position of revered worship".

Protests that began on university campuses have drawn increasing numbers of older people. That includes red shirt followers of ousted populist prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra who had clashed for years with pro-establishment yellow shirts before Prayuth seized power in 2014.

"The new generation is achieving what their parents and grandparents didn`t dare. I`m very proud of that," said Somporn Outsa, 50, a red shirt veteran. "We still respect the monarchy, but it should be under the constitution."

Protesters say the constitution gives the king too much power and that it was engineered to allow Prayuth to keep power after elections last year. He says that vote was fair.

The next protest is scheduled for Thursday. Protest leaders called on Thais to take Oct. 14 off work to show their support for change.

“Radical change is hard in Thailand, but the movement has at least kept the momentum going," said Titipol Phakdeewanich, dean of political science at Ubon Ratchathani University.

Openly challenging the monarchy of Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn, thousands of protesters marched in Bangkok on Sunday to present demands that include a call for reforms to curb his powers.

Openly challenging the monarchy of Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn, thousands of protesters marched in Bangkok on Sunday to present demands that include a call for reforms to curb his powers. Protesters have grown ever bolder during two months of demonstrations against Thailand`s palace and military-dominated establishment, breaking a longstanding taboo on criticising the monarchy - which is illegal under lese majeste laws. The Royal Palace was not immediately available for comment. The king, who spends much of his time in Europe, is not in Thailand now. The marchers were blocked by hundreds of unarmed police manning crowd control barriers. Protest leaders declared victory after handing police a letter detailing their demands. Phakphong Phongphetra, head of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, said on a video broadcast from the scene that the letter would be handed to police headquarters to decide how to proceed. "Our greatest victory in the two days is showing that ordinary people like us can send a letter to royals," Parit "Penguin" Chiwarak, told the crowd before it dispersed. At the biggest demonstration in years, tens of thousands of protesters on Saturday cheered calls for reform of the monarchy as well as for the removal of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, a former junta leader, and a new constitution and elections. SYMBOLIC PLAQUE Shortly after sunrise on Sunday, protesters cemented a plaque near the Grand Palace in Bangkok in the area known as Sanam Luang, or Royal Field. It reads, "At this place the people have expressed their will: that this country belongs to the people and is not the property of the monarch as they have deceived us." Government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said police would not use violence against protesters and it was up to the police to determine and prosecute any illegal speech. Bangkok authorities would need to determine whether the plaque is illegal and if it is it would need to be removed, Bangkok`s deputy police chief Piya Tawichai told reporters. Far from all Thais support the new plaque, which resembles one that had commemorated the end of absolute monarchy in 1932 and which was removed from outside a royal palace in 2017, after Vajiralongkorn took the throne. "Who voted or elected them to deface public property like this?" wrote Somchai Chaihat on Twitter of the new plaque. "Trash it." Thai authorities have said criticising the monarchy is unacceptable in a country where the king is constitutionally "enthroned in a position of revered worship". Protests that began on university campuses have drawn increasing numbers of older people. That includes red shirt followers of ousted populist prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra who had clashed for years with pro-establishment yellow shirts before Prayuth seized power in 2014. "The new generation is achieving what their parents and grandparents didn`t dare. I`m very proud of that," said Somporn Outsa, 50, a red shirt veteran. "We still respect the monarchy, but it should be under the constitution." Protesters say the constitution gives the king too much power and that it was engineered to allow Prayuth to keep power after elections last year. He says that vote was fair. The next protest is scheduled for Thursday. Protest leaders called on Thais to take Oct. 14 off work to show their support for change. “Radical change is hard in Thailand, but the movement has at least kept the momentum going," said Titipol Phakdeewanich, dean of political science at Ubon Ratchathani University.

Thai protesters challenge monarchy as huge protests escalate

When university student Rung calmly read out 10 demands to reform Thailand's monarchy before thousands of protesters at a pro-democracy rally this month, she defied the country's biggest political taboo.

Backed by an arch-royalist military and shielded by draconian royal defamation laws, the super-rich monarchy wields enormous influence in nearly every sphere of Thai society.

But 21-year-old Rung -- real name Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul -- said the August 10 protest at Thammasat University outside Bangkok was "the right time" to ask for change, even though she risked arrest.

"When I left the stage, I felt like I had expanded the boundaries... raised the limits on how people can talk about the monarchy," the bespectacled sociology and anthropology student told AFP.

That demonstration was one of many near-daily rallies -- some drawing thousands -- across Thailand as the democracy movement gathered steam, led by university students like her.

The demands Rung announced that day included more transparency for the royal family's fortune and the abolition of the royal defamation law, which carries a sentence of up to 15 years in jail per charge.

Born 1998 in Nonthaburi to a middle-class family that runs an auto workshop, Rung said she grew up largely unaware of political developments but one incident stood out.

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When she was 10, her entire neighbourhood was ushered out onto the streets to wait for a royal motorcade to drive past.

"I remember thinking: 'Why did I have to go? Why did they have to force me and other people to kneel down?'"

"This was the incident that marked my conscience."

- 'It's about equality' - 
A few years later, when she was 15, Rung was "radicalised" as she saw the 2014 coup unfold.

"Soldiers don't have the authority to rule the country and everything broadcasted then was propaganda," she told AFP at her university dorm.

Inspired by the Hong Kong democracy protests, Thai activists are calling for a complete overhaul of the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha, a former army chief who led the 2014 coup.

To the current protesters, Prayut's administration is emblematic of a putsch-happy military entrenched in the country's political establishment long perceived to serve only the elite.

Sitting at the apex of power is King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Since he ascended the throne in 2016, he has made unprecedented changes to the institution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-minister-says-clampdown-wont-stop-as-facebook-plans-to-fight-order-323256">Also read:&nbsp;Thai minister says clampdown won't stop as Facebook plans to fight order</a>

He has taken personal control of the palace's fortune, worth an estimated $60 billion, and also moved two army units under his direct command.

The burgeoning youth-led movement wants changes "meant to sustain the monarchy in a way that is adapted" to the modern world, said Rung.

On Wednesday, activists submitted the demands to a parliamentary committee -- a move that does not guarantee discussion among MPs but symbolises the group's resolve.

"It's about equality," Rung stressed.

"No one should be more important or higher than anyone else."

- 'My life would change forever' - 
But speaking out comes at a cost.

At least nine pro-democracy activists who fled Thailand since the 2014 coup have disappeared in the past two years, according to Human Rights Watch.

And while the royal defamation law has not been used against any of the activists charged so far, authorities have hit Rung and other student leaders with multiple charges, including sedition.

That carries a maximum sentence of up to seven years in jail.

Prayut has claimed their demands are unacceptable to the country's majority, and on Wednesday warned that Thailand would be "engulfed in flames" if protesters push too far.

Some analysts -- and even student leaders themselves -- have recalled the events of 1976, when students protesting the return of a military dictator were shot, beaten to death and lynched by state forces and royalist mobs.

For now, Rung faces legal threats and could be arrested. But she says she is "ready" for what comes next.

She continues to travel to rallies outside Bangkok to make speeches, and helps organise future gatherings in encrypted message groups.

"I knew that after I read out the 10 demands, my life would change forever," the soft-spoken activist said as she played with her kitten.

"I still had to do it."

When university student Rung calmly read out 10 demands to reform Thailand's monarchy before thousands of protesters at a pro-democracy rally this month, she defied the country's biggest political taboo.

When university student Rung calmly read out 10 demands to reform Thailand's monarchy before thousands of protesters at a pro-democracy rally this month, she defied the country's biggest political taboo. Backed by an arch-royalist military and shielded by draconian royal defamation laws, the super-rich monarchy wields enormous influence in nearly every sphere of Thai society. But 21-year-old Rung -- real name Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul -- said the August 10 protest at Thammasat University outside Bangkok was "the right time" to ask for change, even though she risked arrest. "When I left the stage, I felt like I had expanded the boundaries... raised the limits on how people can talk about the monarchy," the bespectacled sociology and anthropology student told AFP. That demonstration was one of many near-daily rallies -- some drawing thousands -- across Thailand as the democracy movement gathered steam, led by university students like her. The demands Rung announced that day included more transparency for the royal family's fortune and the abolition of the royal defamation law, which carries a sentence of up to 15 years in jail per charge. Born 1998 in Nonthaburi to a middle-class family that runs an auto workshop, Rung said she grew up largely unaware of political developments but one incident stood out. × When she was 10, her entire neighbourhood was ushered out onto the streets to wait for a royal motorcade to drive past. "I remember thinking: 'Why did I have to go? Why did they have to force me and other people to kneel down?'" "This was the incident that marked my conscience." - 'It's about equality' - A few years later, when she was 15, Rung was "radicalised" as she saw the 2014 coup unfold. "Soldiers don't have the authority to rule the country and everything broadcasted then was propaganda," she told AFP at her university dorm. Inspired by the Hong Kong democracy protests, Thai activists are calling for a complete overhaul of the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha, a former army chief who led the 2014 coup. To the current protesters, Prayut's administration is emblematic of a putsch-happy military entrenched in the country's political establishment long perceived to serve only the elite. Sitting at the apex of power is King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Since he ascended the throne in 2016, he has made unprecedented changes to the institution. Also read: Thai minister says clampdown won't stop as Facebook plans to fight order He has taken personal control of the palace's fortune, worth an estimated $60 billion, and also moved two army units under his direct command. The burgeoning youth-led movement wants changes "meant to sustain the monarchy in a way that is adapted" to the modern world, said Rung. On Wednesday, activists submitted the demands to a parliamentary committee -- a move that does not guarantee discussion among MPs but symbolises the group's resolve. "It's about equality," Rung stressed. "No one should be more important or higher than anyone else." - 'My life would change forever' - But speaking out comes at a cost. At least nine pro-democracy activists who fled Thailand since the 2014 coup have disappeared in the past two years, according to Human Rights Watch. And while the royal defamation law has not been used against any of the activists charged so far, authorities have hit Rung and other student leaders with multiple charges, including sedition. That carries a maximum sentence of up to seven years in jail. Prayut has claimed their demands are unacceptable to the country's majority, and on Wednesday warned that Thailand would be "engulfed in flames" if protesters push too far. Some analysts -- and even student leaders themselves -- have recalled the events of 1976, when students protesting the return of a military dictator were shot, beaten to death and lynched by state forces and royalist mobs. For now, Rung faces legal threats and could be arrested. But she says she is "ready" for what comes next. She continues to travel to rallies outside Bangkok to make speeches, and helps organise future gatherings in encrypted message groups. "I knew that after I read out the 10 demands, my life would change forever," the soft-spoken activist said as she played with her kitten. "I still had to do it."

'I had to do it': Student leader defies Thailand's royal taboo

Thailand’s digital minister vowed no relent on Wednesday in a crackdown on social media content deemed illegal and said it was unlikely Facebook would follow through on plans to challenge an order to block access to a group critical of the Thai monarchy.

The “Royalist Marketplace” group, which had over 1 million members, was blocked within Thailand late on Monday after the digital ministry threatened legal action against Facebook under the country’s Computer Crime Act.

Facebook (FB.O) said it was compelled to comply and would mount a legal challenge in court.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/after-block-new-facebook-group-critical-of-thai-monarchy-gains-500000-members-323118">Also read:&nbsp;After block, new Facebook group critical of Thai monarchy gains 500,000 members</a>

The tension comes amid near daily youth-led protests against the government of a former junta chief, during which some demonstrators have made unprecedented calls for reforms of the monarchy, which is illegal to insult in Thailand.

Meanwhile, a new group with a similar name created by Pavin Chachavalpongpun, a self-exiled academic and prominent critic of the monarchy, has amassed over 700,000 members in just two days.

“If they start a new group or do anything illegal again, we’ll need to act again. We’ll keep doing this no matter how many times it takes,” digital minister Puttipong Punnakanta said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-planning-to-challenge-thai-governments-demand-to-block-group-critical-of-monarchy-322913">Also read:&nbsp;Facebook planning to challenge Thai government's demand to block group critical of monarchy</a>

He said he was encouraged by Facebook’s compliance with a deadline to act on court orders, which were attached to government request to block content locally. He warned Facebook’s Thailand office of possible cybercrime charges if the orders were not observed.

“This time Facebook complied in blocking everything we flagged, which is why I don’t think Facebook will pursue legal action,” Puttipong said.

“We’re not bullies. We use Thai laws to protect Thai cyber sovereignty.”

Facebook caving to Thai government pressure set a dangerous precedent for freedom of expression online, said Rasha Abdul-Rahim of rights group Amnesty International.

“It’s welcome that Facebook is now planning legal action to challenge the government’s censorship demands, but the harm has already been done,” she said.

“The company should not have given in to the demands in the first place.”

Thailand’s digital minister vowed no relent on Wednesday in a crackdown on social media content deemed illegal and said it was unlikely Facebook would follow through on plans to challenge an order to block access to a group critical of the Thai monarchy.

Thailand’s digital minister vowed no relent on Wednesday in a crackdown on social media content deemed illegal and said it was unlikely Facebook would follow through on plans to challenge an order to block access to a group critical of the Thai monarchy. The “Royalist Marketplace” group, which had over 1 million members, was blocked within Thailand late on Monday after the digital ministry threatened legal action against Facebook under the country’s Computer Crime Act. Facebook (FB.O) said it was compelled to comply and would mount a legal challenge in court. Also read: After block, new Facebook group critical of Thai monarchy gains 500,000 members The tension comes amid near daily youth-led protests against the government of a former junta chief, during which some demonstrators have made unprecedented calls for reforms of the monarchy, which is illegal to insult in Thailand. Meanwhile, a new group with a similar name created by Pavin Chachavalpongpun, a self-exiled academic and prominent critic of the monarchy, has amassed over 700,000 members in just two days. “If they start a new group or do anything illegal again, we’ll need to act again. We’ll keep doing this no matter how many times it takes,” digital minister Puttipong Punnakanta said. Also read: Facebook planning to challenge Thai government's demand to block group critical of monarchy He said he was encouraged by Facebook’s compliance with a deadline to act on court orders, which were attached to government request to block content locally. He warned Facebook’s Thailand office of possible cybercrime charges if the orders were not observed. “This time Facebook complied in blocking everything we flagged, which is why I don’t think Facebook will pursue legal action,” Puttipong said. “We’re not bullies. We use Thai laws to protect Thai cyber sovereignty.” Facebook caving to Thai government pressure set a dangerous precedent for freedom of expression online, said Rasha Abdul-Rahim of rights group Amnesty International. “It’s welcome that Facebook is now planning legal action to challenge the government’s censorship demands, but the harm has already been done,” she said. “The company should not have given in to the demands in the first place.”

Thai minister says clampdown won't stop as Facebook plans to fight order

Pupils at more than a dozen Thai high schools raised three-finger "Hunger Games" salutes during the national anthem on Tuesday in a sign of spreading support for student-led anti-government protests.

Demonstrations that began on university campuses have taken place almost daily since mid-July in an increasing challenge to the ruling establishment in the Southeast Asian country that has long been dominated by the army and the monarchy.

High school protests during morning assemblies began in at least eight schools on Monday. The three-finger salute has been a symbol of calls for democracy since Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha first took power in a 2014 coup.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/anti-government-protesters-target-king-pm-in-thailand-321298" hreflang="en">Anti-government protesters target King, PM in Thailand</a>

Some students also wore white ribbons to show their support for protesters, who seek Prayuth's departure, a new constitution and an end to the harassment of activists. Some students have also called for reforms to the monarchy, once a taboo subject.&nbsp;

"I want to show that I don't like dictatorship and want true democracy," said one 17-year-old student who joined the protest at a government school on Monday and said she did not want to be named for fear of reprisals after pressure from teachers.

The school did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Education Minister Nataphol Teepsuwan said at an educational fair in Bangkok on Monday that the students had the right to express themselves and should not be punished, but also warned that there was a limit to how far they should go.

Prayuth told reporters he was willing to listen to the students but questioned the motives of some.

"I heard from some students that those that don't want to take part in these actions gets bullied into doing it," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/tensions-swell-in-thailand-ahead-of-fresh-pro-democracy-protest-320926" hreflang="en">Tensions swell in Thailand ahead of fresh pro-democracy protest</a>

Protesters accuse Prayuth of holding on to power unfairly after elections last year under rules drawn up his junta. He says the elections were fair.

Apart from the political demands, some pupils complain of a school system which emphasises obedience and tradition, from lining up daily for the national anthem to strict rules on uniforms, haircuts and behaviour.

"Students see politics through the lens of school life that lacks democracy and has many highly authoritarian elements," said Prajak Kongkirati, a political scientist at Thammasat University in Bangkok.&nbsp;

"What we are witnessing is the beginning of a social revolution."

A hashtag that translates as #WhiteRibbonAgainstDictatorship was used nearly 1 million times on Twitter while others trending included #ThreeFingersForNationalAnthem.

Videos shared on social media show some teachers trying to stop students from giving the salutes, but in other schools teachers have joined in raising their hands.

Increasing support for the protest movement was evident in Bangkok on Sunday when more than 10,000 people joined the biggest demonstration for years.

High school students said they were planning further protests on Wednesday, including one at the Ministry of Education.

Pupils at more than a dozen Thai high schools raised three-finger "Hunger Games" salutes during the national anthem on Tuesday in a sign of spreading support for student-led anti-government protests.

Pupils at more than a dozen Thai high schools raised three-finger "Hunger Games" salutes during the national anthem on Tuesday in a sign of spreading support for student-led anti-government protests. Demonstrations that began on university campuses have taken place almost daily since mid-July in an increasing challenge to the ruling establishment in the Southeast Asian country that has long been dominated by the army and the monarchy. High school protests during morning assemblies began in at least eight schools on Monday. The three-finger salute has been a symbol of calls for democracy since Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha first took power in a 2014 coup. Also read: Anti-government protesters target King, PM in Thailand Some students also wore white ribbons to show their support for protesters, who seek Prayuth's departure, a new constitution and an end to the harassment of activists. Some students have also called for reforms to the monarchy, once a taboo subject. "I want to show that I don't like dictatorship and want true democracy," said one 17-year-old student who joined the protest at a government school on Monday and said she did not want to be named for fear of reprisals after pressure from teachers. The school did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. Education Minister Nataphol Teepsuwan said at an educational fair in Bangkok on Monday that the students had the right to express themselves and should not be punished, but also warned that there was a limit to how far they should go. Prayuth told reporters he was willing to listen to the students but questioned the motives of some. "I heard from some students that those that don't want to take part in these actions gets bullied into doing it," he said. Also read: Tensions swell in Thailand ahead of fresh pro-democracy protest Protesters accuse Prayuth of holding on to power unfairly after elections last year under rules drawn up his junta. He says the elections were fair. Apart from the political demands, some pupils complain of a school system which emphasises obedience and tradition, from lining up daily for the national anthem to strict rules on uniforms, haircuts and behaviour. "Students see politics through the lens of school life that lacks democracy and has many highly authoritarian elements," said Prajak Kongkirati, a political scientist at Thammasat University in Bangkok. "What we are witnessing is the beginning of a social revolution." A hashtag that translates as #WhiteRibbonAgainstDictatorship was used nearly 1 million times on Twitter while others trending included #ThreeFingersForNationalAnthem. Videos shared on social media show some teachers trying to stop students from giving the salutes, but in other schools teachers have joined in raising their hands. Increasing support for the protest movement was evident in Bangkok on Sunday when more than 10,000 people joined the biggest demonstration for years. High school students said they were planning further protests on Wednesday, including one at the Ministry of Education.

Thai school 'Hunger Games' salute protests spread

Protesters rallied in Bangkok on Sunday against the government as tensions rose in the kingdom after the arrest of three activists leading the pro-democracy movement.

Thailand has seen near-daily demonstrations for the past month by student-led groups denouncing Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha -- a former military chief who led the 2014 coup -- and his pro-establishment administration.

Prominent student leader Parit Chiwarak, bailed a day after his arrest Friday night, vowed to attend Sunday's rally at Bangkok's Democracy Monument.

Organisers expect thousands to participate. Hundreds of police personnel were seen at the venue before the scheduled start of the protest.

The protesters, partly inspired by the Hong Kong democracy movement, claim to be leaderless, and have relied mostly on social media campaigns to draw support across the country.

The hashtag "Give a deadline to dictatorship" and "Tag your friends to protest" started trending early Sunday on Twitter in Thailand.

The protesters are demanding an overhaul of the government and a rewrite of the 2017 military-scripted constitution, which demonstrators believe skewed last year's poll in the favour of Prayut's military-aligned party.

A rally last week -- attended by some 4,000 demonstrators -- also called for the abolition of a law protecting Thailand's unassailable monarchy, and for a frank discussion about the royal institution's role in Thailand.

Super-rich King Maha Vajiralongkorn sits at the apex of Thai power, flanked by the military and the kingdom's billionaire business elite.

The draconian "112" law can see those convicted sentenced to up to 15 years in jail for each charge.

On Sunday, some 50 royalist protesters carrying portraits of the king gathered at the Democracy Monument -- the same venue where the anti-government rally will take place later in the day.

"Long live the king," shouted the royalists, dressed in yellow shirts -- the king's colours.

The day before student leader Parit's arrest, Prayut said the protesters' demands were "unacceptable" for the country's majority, calling the pro-democracy movement "risky".

He struck a more conciliatory tone in a televised speech later in the day, appealing for unity and saying the "future belongs to the young".

Thailand has long seen a cycle of violent protests and coups, with the arch-royalist army staging more than a dozen putsches since the end of absolutism in 1932.

The growing discontent also comes as the kingdom goes through one of its worst economic periods since 1997 because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Millions have been left jobless, and the crisis has exposed the inequalities in the Thai economy, which is perceived to benefit the elite, pro-military establishment.

(with inputs from AFP)

Protesters rallied in Bangkok on Sunday against the government as tensions rose in the kingdom after the arrest of three activists leading the pro-democracy movement.

Protesters rallied in Bangkok on Sunday against the government as tensions rose in the kingdom after the arrest of three activists leading the pro-democracy movement. Thailand has seen near-daily demonstrations for the past month by student-led groups denouncing Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha -- a former military chief who led the 2014 coup -- and his pro-establishment administration. Prominent student leader Parit Chiwarak, bailed a day after his arrest Friday night, vowed to attend Sunday's rally at Bangkok's Democracy Monument. Organisers expect thousands to participate. Hundreds of police personnel were seen at the venue before the scheduled start of the protest. The protesters, partly inspired by the Hong Kong democracy movement, claim to be leaderless, and have relied mostly on social media campaigns to draw support across the country. The hashtag "Give a deadline to dictatorship" and "Tag your friends to protest" started trending early Sunday on Twitter in Thailand. The protesters are demanding an overhaul of the government and a rewrite of the 2017 military-scripted constitution, which demonstrators believe skewed last year's poll in the favour of Prayut's military-aligned party. A rally last week -- attended by some 4,000 demonstrators -- also called for the abolition of a law protecting Thailand's unassailable monarchy, and for a frank discussion about the royal institution's role in Thailand. Super-rich King Maha Vajiralongkorn sits at the apex of Thai power, flanked by the military and the kingdom's billionaire business elite. The draconian "112" law can see those convicted sentenced to up to 15 years in jail for each charge. On Sunday, some 50 royalist protesters carrying portraits of the king gathered at the Democracy Monument -- the same venue where the anti-government rally will take place later in the day. "Long live the king," shouted the royalists, dressed in yellow shirts -- the king's colours. The day before student leader Parit's arrest, Prayut said the protesters' demands were "unacceptable" for the country's majority, calling the pro-democracy movement "risky". He struck a more conciliatory tone in a televised speech later in the day, appealing for unity and saying the "future belongs to the young". Thailand has long seen a cycle of violent protests and coups, with the arch-royalist army staging more than a dozen putsches since the end of absolutism in 1932. The growing discontent also comes as the kingdom goes through one of its worst economic periods since 1997 because of the coronavirus pandemic. Millions have been left jobless, and the crisis has exposed the inequalities in the Thai economy, which is perceived to benefit the elite, pro-military establishment. (with inputs from AFP)

Tensions swell in Thailand ahead of fresh pro-democracy protest

Two Myanmar migrant workers on death row for the brutal murder of a pair of British backpackers in Thailand have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment following a mass royal pardon.

The men's lawyer Nadthasiri Bergman said the pardon decree -- which was published Friday and applies to all inmates on death row -- was "effective immediately".

Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Tun were found guilty of the rape and murder of Hannah Witheridge, 23, and of killing David Miller, 24, after their battered bodies were found on a beach on the southern resort island of Koh Tao in September 2014.

But defence lawyers have said the evidence used to convict the two men -- who are both from Myanmar's impoverished Rakhine state -- was unreliable and alleged that confessions by the pair were obtained under duress.

"I can't find words to express how thankful we are," Ye Zaw Tun, a brother of Win Zaw Tun, told AFP on Saturday following the decree.

"We knew this case was totally unfair, and we sometimes feel bitterness, but we want to say thanks for the royal pardon."

A commutation of their sentence had been the pair's only remaining hope after their final appeal failed last year, with Thailand's top court ruling the evidence against them was clear.

The case triggered a strong reaction from Myanmar, where many felt the two men had been given an unfair trial as low-paid migrant workers -- an integral part of Thailand's workforce -- are often regarded with contempt by its public.

The police were accused of buckling under pressure to solve a crime that attracted worldwide attention.

Defence lawyers claimed authorities mishandled DNA related to the case and did not allow independent analysis of the samples.

Win Zaw Tun's brother said the men were in good health in prison but called for them to be "immediately released".

The royal pardon comes as Thailand is rocked by near-daily anti-government demonstrations by student-led groups

Two Myanmar migrant workers on death row for the brutal murder of a pair of British backpackers in Thailand have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment following a mass royal pardon.

Two Myanmar migrant workers on death row for the brutal murder of a pair of British backpackers in Thailand have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment following a mass royal pardon. The men's lawyer Nadthasiri Bergman said the pardon decree -- which was published Friday and applies to all inmates on death row -- was "effective immediately". Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Tun were found guilty of the rape and murder of Hannah Witheridge, 23, and of killing David Miller, 24, after their battered bodies were found on a beach on the southern resort island of Koh Tao in September 2014. But defence lawyers have said the evidence used to convict the two men -- who are both from Myanmar's impoverished Rakhine state -- was unreliable and alleged that confessions by the pair were obtained under duress. "I can't find words to express how thankful we are," Ye Zaw Tun, a brother of Win Zaw Tun, told AFP on Saturday following the decree. "We knew this case was totally unfair, and we sometimes feel bitterness, but we want to say thanks for the royal pardon." A commutation of their sentence had been the pair's only remaining hope after their final appeal failed last year, with Thailand's top court ruling the evidence against them was clear. The case triggered a strong reaction from Myanmar, where many felt the two men had been given an unfair trial as low-paid migrant workers -- an integral part of Thailand's workforce -- are often regarded with contempt by its public. The police were accused of buckling under pressure to solve a crime that attracted worldwide attention. Defence lawyers claimed authorities mishandled DNA related to the case and did not allow independent analysis of the samples. Win Zaw Tun's brother said the men were in good health in prison but called for them to be "immediately released". The royal pardon comes as Thailand is rocked by near-daily anti-government demonstrations by student-led groups

Death sentence of Myanmar men commuted in Brit murder case

'Down with the dictatorship': Thailand witness biggest anti-government protest in years

Thailand has turned into a cauldron of protest. The worst public demonstration in almost a decade.

The country has a king and an elected government. Both are facing the wrath of the people.

The king is in a luxury hotel in Europe with 20 concubines. The army chief turned prime minister has dissolved opposition parties and made critics disappear.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-harry-potter-themed-protests-in-thailand-318190/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Now young demonstrators are dressing up as harry potter. Young Thais have held daily protests at universities and town halls. They are openly denouncing King Rama X.&nbsp;

And, the military-backed government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chanocha, a former junta leader. The young demonstrators say -- there is more fear than freedom in Thailand. They want a complete overhaul of the constitution.

This king took the throne in 2016. He revised the constitution, acquired more powers. In Thailand, insulting the royals will land you in jail for 15 years.

The lese majeste law is being enforced with an iron fist. Protestors are unhappy about all of this. Plus the king's disregard for his people.

As Thailand fights a pandemic, the king has gone into isolation with 20 concubines. For months, he has been holed up in a luxury hotel in the bavarian alps.

The protestors see the prime minister as a greater villain. Especially after an opposition party was dissolved.

Not just parties, political activists are also under pressure. Many have disappeared. Not just in Thailand, but also in neighbouring Laos.

Prayut first came to power in 2014. As the army chief, he organised a military coup to overthrow an elected government. He retained the position of prime minister in 2019.

The protesters say -- the election was rigged. Under his rule, the military, political and royal elite have consolidated power.

The protest against this new powerful establishment is the largest since the military coup in 2014. Thailand's history known for protests, coups and constitutional rewriting.

It is happening all over again. A battle between the govt-backed monarchy and people's freedom.

Thailand has turned into a cauldron of protest. The worst public demonstration in almost a decade. The country has a king and an elected government. Both are facing the wrath of the people.

Thailand has turned into a cauldron of protest. The worst public demonstration in almost a decade. The country has a king and an elected government. Both are facing the wrath of the people. The king is in a luxury hotel in Europe with 20 concubines. The army chief turned prime minister has dissolved opposition parties and made critics disappear. Now young demonstrators are dressing up as harry potter. Young Thais have held daily protests at universities and town halls. They are openly denouncing King Rama X. And, the military-backed government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chanocha, a former junta leader. The young demonstrators say -- there is more fear than freedom in Thailand. They want a complete overhaul of the constitution. This king took the throne in 2016. He revised the constitution, acquired more powers. In Thailand, insulting the royals will land you in jail for 15 years. The lese majeste law is being enforced with an iron fist. Protestors are unhappy about all of this. Plus the king's disregard for his people. As Thailand fights a pandemic, the king has gone into isolation with 20 concubines. For months, he has been holed up in a luxury hotel in the bavarian alps. The protestors see the prime minister as a greater villain. Especially after an opposition party was dissolved. Not just parties, political activists are also under pressure. Many have disappeared. Not just in Thailand, but also in neighbouring Laos. Prayut first came to power in 2014. As the army chief, he organised a military coup to overthrow an elected government. He retained the position of prime minister in 2019. The protesters say -- the election was rigged. Under his rule, the military, political and royal elite have consolidated power. The protest against this new powerful establishment is the largest since the military coup in 2014. Thailand's history known for protests, coups and constitutional rewriting. It is happening all over again. A battle between the govt-backed monarchy and people's freedom.

Thai youth dressed as Harry Potter protest against government and royal family

Thai students protest against 'you-know-who' in Harry Potter style

Thailand's attorney general ordered a new investigation Tuesday into the heir to the Red Bull billions accused of a fatal hit-and-run, following public outrage after his charges were dropped last month.

Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya was accused of killing a police officer in 2012 when he crashed his Ferrari in Bangkok's most exclusive neighbourhood.

The case has dragged on for years, and Vorayuth, the grandson of Red Bull co-founder Chaleo Yoovidhya and one of the heirs to the family fortune, fled the kingdom in 2017.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-bull-heir-boss-free-of-hit-and-run-charges-315750">Red Bull heir 'Boss' free of hit-and-run charges</a>

Last month, police and prosecutors said all charges against the 38-year-old had been dropped, including reckless driving causing death, citing new evidence.

The move spurred widespread anger amplified by trending hashtags on Twitter such as #BoycottRedBull, as his case was perceived as an example of the impunity apparently enjoyed by the kingdom's powerful billionaire class.

It also led to a rare statement by eight members of the sprawling Yoovidhya clan, considered Thailand's second-richest family according to Forbes,&nbsp;who broke ranks to decry it.&nbsp;

Under growing pressure, the attorney general's office, police and the prime minister's office have now each opened probes into why the charges were dropped.&nbsp;

Following a review of the case, the Attorney General's Office (AGO) announced Tuesday they will order police to conduct new investigations into the accident and Vorayuth's alleged drug use.&nbsp;

Traces of cocaine were detected in Vorayuth's system after the accident, according to a police report.

Police told a parliamentary committee last week that they had not pressed drug charges because Vorayuth's dentist said the cocaine was administered for dental treatment.&nbsp;

The AGO said it "agrees to firstly inform police investigators to press charges against him on the use of... cocaine", said Prayut Bejaguna, deputy spokesman.&nbsp;

"They must also open the new investigation on the charge of reckless driving cause death, which has seven years left on the statute of limitations."

He cited new evidence showing discrepancies between the original police report of Vorayuth's speed.&nbsp;

"The case is not over yet."&nbsp;

Last week, a defence witness key to clearing Vorayut's name was killed in a motorbike accident in the northern city of Chiang Mai.&nbsp;

Charuchart Martthong had told investigators that Vorayut was not speeding, an account apparently delivered years after the 2012 accident.&nbsp;

The probes launched by multiple Thai agencies would likely have seen the truck driver questioned again.&nbsp;

His sudden death on Thursday prompted premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha to order a new autopsy.&nbsp;

The former army general on Tuesday urged for calm from the public, calling for them to be patient for the results of all probes.&nbsp;

The Red Bull case has served as a fresh conduit for anger against Prayut's administration, which enjoys close alliances with Thailand's billionaire clans, as it struggles with a flatlining economy due to the epidemic.&nbsp;

Thailand's attorney general ordered a new investigation Tuesday into the heir to the Red Bull billions accused of a fatal hit-and-run, following public outrage after his charges were dropped last month.

Thailand's attorney general ordered a new investigation Tuesday into the heir to the Red Bull billions accused of a fatal hit-and-run, following public outrage after his charges were dropped last month. Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya was accused of killing a police officer in 2012 when he crashed his Ferrari in Bangkok's most exclusive neighbourhood. The case has dragged on for years, and Vorayuth, the grandson of Red Bull co-founder Chaleo Yoovidhya and one of the heirs to the family fortune, fled the kingdom in 2017. Also read: Red Bull heir 'Boss' free of hit-and-run charges Last month, police and prosecutors said all charges against the 38-year-old had been dropped, including reckless driving causing death, citing new evidence. The move spurred widespread anger amplified by trending hashtags on Twitter such as #BoycottRedBull, as his case was perceived as an example of the impunity apparently enjoyed by the kingdom's powerful billionaire class. It also led to a rare statement by eight members of the sprawling Yoovidhya clan, considered Thailand's second-richest family according to Forbes, who broke ranks to decry it. Under growing pressure, the attorney general's office, police and the prime minister's office have now each opened probes into why the charges were dropped. Following a review of the case, the Attorney General's Office (AGO) announced Tuesday they will order police to conduct new investigations into the accident and Vorayuth's alleged drug use. Traces of cocaine were detected in Vorayuth's system after the accident, according to a police report. Police told a parliamentary committee last week that they had not pressed drug charges because Vorayuth's dentist said the cocaine was administered for dental treatment. The AGO said it "agrees to firstly inform police investigators to press charges against him on the use of... cocaine", said Prayut Bejaguna, deputy spokesman. "They must also open the new investigation on the charge of reckless driving cause death, which has seven years left on the statute of limitations." He cited new evidence showing discrepancies between the original police report of Vorayuth's speed. "The case is not over yet." Last week, a defence witness key to clearing Vorayut's name was killed in a motorbike accident in the northern city of Chiang Mai. Charuchart Martthong had told investigators that Vorayut was not speeding, an account apparently delivered years after the 2012 accident. The probes launched by multiple Thai agencies would likely have seen the truck driver questioned again. His sudden death on Thursday prompted premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha to order a new autopsy. The former army general on Tuesday urged for calm from the public, calling for them to be patient for the results of all probes. The Red Bull case has served as a fresh conduit for anger against Prayut's administration, which enjoys close alliances with Thailand's billionaire clans, as it struggles with a flatlining economy due to the epidemic.

Thailand launches another probe in Red Bull heir's 'hit-and-run'

Foreign envoys of countries whose languages have been included in the National Education Policy 2020 have welcomed the development and said that this will increase the understanding of the country and also increase bilateral cooperation.

The National Education Policy announced by the government included foreign languages-- Korean, Japanese, Thai, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, and Russian at the secondary level which the policy says will allow "students to learn about the cultures of the world and to enrich their global knowledge and mobility according to their own interests and aspirations."

Thai envoy Chutintorn Sam Gongsakdi reacting to the development told WION,"Thai is taught in places like Australia &amp; Viet Nam, but in India, it’s an additional honour."

"There are common Pali and Sanskrit roots in our languages, so I hope Indians will not find Thai too difficult," he added.

Russian envoy Nikolay Kudashev said," Happy to see the Russian language listed in the New Education Policy among the electives that students can take up to learn about cultures of the world and enrich global knowledge. It will further strengthen bilateral people-to-people ties."

South Korea's envoy to India Shin Bongkil said, "I think Indian government`s decision about adding Korean as a foreign language for secondary level can be considered as one of symbolic measure to focus on the importance of India-Korea relations."

The Korean Culture Centre in India is preparing to open Korean Language Teacher Training Course with 23 Korean language teacher candidate. These teachers are selected for a 15-week intensive course which will run from 17th August to 24th December.&nbsp;

No mandarin was included in the new education policy. &nbsp;

Foreign envoys of countries whose languages have been included in the National Education Policy 2020 have welcomed the development and said that this will increase the understanding of the country and also increase bilateral cooperation.

Foreign envoys of countries whose languages have been included in the National Education Policy 2020 have welcomed the development and said that this will increase the understanding of the country and also increase bilateral cooperation. The National Education Policy announced by the government included foreign languages-- Korean, Japanese, Thai, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, and Russian at the secondary level which the policy says will allow "students to learn about the cultures of the world and to enrich their global knowledge and mobility according to their own interests and aspirations." Thai envoy Chutintorn Sam Gongsakdi reacting to the development told WION,"Thai is taught in places like Australia & Viet Nam, but in India, it’s an additional honour." "There are common Pali and Sanskrit roots in our languages, so I hope Indians will not find Thai too difficult," he added. Russian envoy Nikolay Kudashev said," Happy to see the Russian language listed in the New Education Policy among the electives that students can take up to learn about cultures of the world and enrich global knowledge. It will further strengthen bilateral people-to-people ties." South Korea's envoy to India Shin Bongkil said, "I think Indian government`s decision about adding Korean as a foreign language for secondary level can be considered as one of symbolic measure to focus on the importance of India-Korea relations." The Korean Culture Centre in India is preparing to open Korean Language Teacher Training Course with 23 Korean language teacher candidate. These teachers are selected for a 15-week intensive course which will run from 17th August to 24th December. No mandarin was included in the new education policy.

Envoys welcome inclusion of foreign languages in New Education Policy

Sporting animal ears and stuffed hamster toys, hundreds of young protesters gathered Sunday at Bangkok's Democracy Monument to call for the government's dissolution, the latest subversive show of creativity from the kingdom's nascent pro-democracy movement.

As dozens of police watched, the protesters sang a parody of the theme song for Hamtaro -- a popular Japanese anime character that is a sparkly-eyed hamster -- replacing the lyrics with the refrain "dissolve the parliament".

The demonstrators brought a different mood from a week ago, when thousands of young, black-clad Thais shouted vitriolic anti-government rap songs at the monument.&nbsp;

But the message remains the same, as boom-box wielding Thais started to jog around the monument in an apparent symbolic attempt to show how the kingdom's politics falls into a cycle they wish to break.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dance-of-democracy-thai-lgbt-activists-rally-for-equal-rights-316108">Also read|&nbsp;Dance of democracy: Thai LGBT activists rally for equal rights</a>

"I want a future where people can fight for democracy," said Bowie, a 27-year-old lawyer who only provided his nickname.

"We need freedom to fight because this government attacks everyone that is not on their side," he said before running to join his fellow protesters.&nbsp;

The kingdom's rambunctious political scene has long been defined by coups and deadly street protests.&nbsp;

Stoked anger 
The current government headed by former army general-turned-premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha is regarded as part of the pro-military royalist establishment.

But a freefalling economy due to the coronavirus epidemic, and the recent disappearance of a pro-democracy activist has stoked the anger of younger internet-savvy Thais who are well-versed in viral movements.&nbsp;

The Hamtaro theme was chosen for its viral potential in other countries, said Jessie, a 19-year-old university student.

Most notably, the jaunty chorus -- "The most delicious thing is sunflower seeds" -- have been changed to "The most delicious thing is the people's taxes".

"They should use our taxes to develop our country," Jessie said.&nbsp;

"We are scared but for us, it is important to start speaking up about it," she told AFP. "We need change right now."&nbsp;

Sunday's gathering was the latest in a string of rallies across the country, displaying a deep well of discontent among young Thais from all walks of life.&nbsp;

The day before, LGBT activists gathered at Democracy Monument to call for marriage equality and demand for Prayut's resignation.&nbsp;

The premier said last week he was "worried" for the parents of the young protesters, and defended keeping the emergency laws in place -- which critics say is a way to erode freedoms.

The kingdom's powerful army chief, General Apirat Kongsompong, called on Friday for all Thais to keep their minds "neutral", especially on social media.&nbsp;

"Although I am the army chief, I speak as a Thai citizen that whatever you do, you will regret it when looking back," he said.&nbsp;

Sporting animal ears and stuffed hamster toys, hundreds of young protesters gathered Sunday at Bangkok's Democracy Monument to call for the government's dissolution, the latest subversive show of creativity from the kingdom's nascent pro-democracy movement.

Sporting animal ears and stuffed hamster toys, hundreds of young protesters gathered Sunday at Bangkok's Democracy Monument to call for the government's dissolution, the latest subversive show of creativity from the kingdom's nascent pro-democracy movement. As dozens of police watched, the protesters sang a parody of the theme song for Hamtaro -- a popular Japanese anime character that is a sparkly-eyed hamster -- replacing the lyrics with the refrain "dissolve the parliament". The demonstrators brought a different mood from a week ago, when thousands of young, black-clad Thais shouted vitriolic anti-government rap songs at the monument. But the message remains the same, as boom-box wielding Thais started to jog around the monument in an apparent symbolic attempt to show how the kingdom's politics falls into a cycle they wish to break. Also read| Dance of democracy: Thai LGBT activists rally for equal rights "I want a future where people can fight for democracy," said Bowie, a 27-year-old lawyer who only provided his nickname. "We need freedom to fight because this government attacks everyone that is not on their side," he said before running to join his fellow protesters. The kingdom's rambunctious political scene has long been defined by coups and deadly street protests. Stoked anger The current government headed by former army general-turned-premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha is regarded as part of the pro-military royalist establishment. But a freefalling economy due to the coronavirus epidemic, and the recent disappearance of a pro-democracy activist has stoked the anger of younger internet-savvy Thais who are well-versed in viral movements. The Hamtaro theme was chosen for its viral potential in other countries, said Jessie, a 19-year-old university student. Most notably, the jaunty chorus -- "The most delicious thing is sunflower seeds" -- have been changed to "The most delicious thing is the people's taxes". "They should use our taxes to develop our country," Jessie said. "We are scared but for us, it is important to start speaking up about it," she told AFP. "We need change right now." Sunday's gathering was the latest in a string of rallies across the country, displaying a deep well of discontent among young Thais from all walks of life. The day before, LGBT activists gathered at Democracy Monument to call for marriage equality and demand for Prayut's resignation. The premier said last week he was "worried" for the parents of the young protesters, and defended keeping the emergency laws in place -- which critics say is a way to erode freedoms. The kingdom's powerful army chief, General Apirat Kongsompong, called on Friday for all Thais to keep their minds "neutral", especially on social media. "Although I am the army chief, I speak as a Thai citizen that whatever you do, you will regret it when looking back," he said.

Thai youths resort to subversive anime in pro-democracy protest

The maker of Red Bull has decided to distance the brand from its Thai heir&nbsp;Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya after a big controversy spurred in the last week.

Thailand locals are not happy about the way allegations of hit-and-run case were handled by the local police. In 2012, Yoovidhya was alleged of a hit-and-run case. It was alleged that the heir crashed his Ferrari in Bangkok's most exclusive neighbourhood and killed a policeman.

No action was taken all this time and by the time an arrest warrant was issued five years later, Yoovidhya had already flown to Singapore in a private jet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-bull-heir-boss-free-of-hit-and-run-charges-315750">Also read:&nbsp;Red Bull heir 'Boss' free of hit-and-run charges</a>

What caused havoc was that on Friday, police confirmed the remaining charges against him had been dropped, including reckless driving causing death.

The dropping of charges for the 'rich boy' caused protests and disapproval by Thai citizens. Thailand has had a reputation of letting the rich families slip through the hands of justice system.

When the announcement was made, hashtags such as&nbsp;#BossRedBull and #BoycottRedbull started trending on Twitter in English as well as Thai language.

After the online and offline outrage over the decision, the&nbsp;attorney-general's office has decided to set up a committee to investigate why the charges were dropped.

Meanwhile the TCP Group, the parent company of Red Bull, issued a statement claiming that Yoovidhya&nbsp;"has never assumed any role in the management and daily operations of TCP Group, was never a shareholder, nor has he held any executive position within TCP Group."

The maker of Red Bull has decided to distance the brand from its Thai heir Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya after a big controversy spurred in the last week. Thailand locals are not happy about the way allegations of hit-and-run case were handled by the local police.

The maker of Red Bull has decided to distance the brand from its Thai heir Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya after a big controversy spurred in the last week. Thailand locals are not happy about the way allegations of hit-and-run case were handled by the local police. In 2012, Yoovidhya was alleged of a hit-and-run case. It was alleged that the heir crashed his Ferrari in Bangkok's most exclusive neighbourhood and killed a policeman. No action was taken all this time and by the time an arrest warrant was issued five years later, Yoovidhya had already flown to Singapore in a private jet. Also read: Red Bull heir 'Boss' free of hit-and-run charges What caused havoc was that on Friday, police confirmed the remaining charges against him had been dropped, including reckless driving causing death. The dropping of charges for the 'rich boy' caused protests and disapproval by Thai citizens. Thailand has had a reputation of letting the rich families slip through the hands of justice system. When the announcement was made, hashtags such as #BossRedBull and #BoycottRedbull started trending on Twitter in English as well as Thai language. After the online and offline outrage over the decision, the attorney-general's office has decided to set up a committee to investigate why the charges were dropped. Meanwhile the TCP Group, the parent company of Red Bull, issued a statement claiming that Yoovidhya "has never assumed any role in the management and daily operations of TCP Group, was never a shareholder, nor has he held any executive position within TCP Group."

Red Bull TCP Group says Thai heir not a part of company after controversies

Dance of democracy: Thai LGBT activists rally for equal rights

Hundreds of Thai LGBT activists and allies raised rainbow flags on Saturday evening as they called for democracy and equal rights, the latest in a series of youth protests calling for the government to step down.

Several youth-led demonstrations have sprung up across the country since last week, when thousands of Thai activists defied a coronavirus ban on gatherings and staged one of the largest street rallies since a 2014 military coup.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taiwan-stages-lgbt-pride-parade-for-the-world-309339">Also watch:&nbsp;Taiwan stages LGBT pride parade for the world</a>

The activists on Saturday danced and sang and performed stand-up comedy sketches making jabs at the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, a former army chief who ousted an elected government six years ago. Pride flags were waved against the backdrop of Bangkok`s Democracy Monument.

"We`re here today mainly to call for democracy. Once we achieve democracy, equal rights will follow," said a 21-year-old activist who went by a made-up name, Viktorious Nighttime.

"The LGBT group do not yet have equal rights in society, so we`re calling for both democracy and equality," added Viktorious, who was wearing a glittery tiara and a face mask.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lgbtq-pride-month-events-go-online-to-mark-50th-anniversary-taiwan-holds-march-309170">Also read:&nbsp;LGBTQ Pride Month events go online to mark 50th anniversary; Taiwan holds march</a>

The calls came after Thailand`s cabinet backed a civil partnership bill earlier this month that would recognise same-sex unions with almost the same rights as married couples.

Saturday`s gathering was the latest in a series of protests under the Free Youth movement, which has issued three demands: the dissolution of parliament, an end to harassment of government critics, and amendments to the military-written constitution.

"Even if they don`t step down from power today, we want to let them know that we won`t go anywhere, we will be here," said a 21-year-old protestor who gave her name as Yaya. "Even if they get rid of us, our ideology will never die, we will pass this on to the next generation."

Hundreds of Thai LGBT activists and allies raised rainbow flags on Saturday evening as they called for democracy and equal rights, the latest in a series of youth protests calling for the government to step down.

Hundreds of Thai LGBT activists and allies raised rainbow flags on Saturday evening as they called for democracy and equal rights, the latest in a series of youth protests calling for the government to step down. Several youth-led demonstrations have sprung up across the country since last week, when thousands of Thai activists defied a coronavirus ban on gatherings and staged one of the largest street rallies since a 2014 military coup. Also watch: Taiwan stages LGBT pride parade for the world The activists on Saturday danced and sang and performed stand-up comedy sketches making jabs at the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, a former army chief who ousted an elected government six years ago. Pride flags were waved against the backdrop of Bangkok`s Democracy Monument. "We`re here today mainly to call for democracy. Once we achieve democracy, equal rights will follow," said a 21-year-old activist who went by a made-up name, Viktorious Nighttime. "The LGBT group do not yet have equal rights in society, so we`re calling for both democracy and equality," added Viktorious, who was wearing a glittery tiara and a face mask. Also read: LGBTQ Pride Month events go online to mark 50th anniversary; Taiwan holds march The calls came after Thailand`s cabinet backed a civil partnership bill earlier this month that would recognise same-sex unions with almost the same rights as married couples. Saturday`s gathering was the latest in a series of protests under the Free Youth movement, which has issued three demands: the dissolution of parliament, an end to harassment of government critics, and amendments to the military-written constitution. "Even if they don`t step down from power today, we want to let them know that we won`t go anywhere, we will be here," said a 21-year-old protestor who gave her name as Yaya. "Even if they get rid of us, our ideology will never die, we will pass this on to the next generation."

Thai LGBT activists raise pride flag in anti-government rally

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