Thailand celebrates National Elephant Day

Hundreds of students gathered in the streets of the capital city, Bangkok, demanding the immediate release of the protest leaders who have been in jail for the past couple of days.

A youth-led protest took place in the capital city on the weekend as hundreds of students and youngsters took to the streets defying the no-public gathering rule in the city.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-military-denies-involvement-in-network-removed-by-facebook-368071">Thai military denies involvement in network removed by Facebook</a>

The demonstrators burned photographs of the Thai King, Maha Vajiralongkorn, and raised slogans against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

With slogans such as 'Release our friends' and 'Abolish 112' (with reference to Thailand's lese majeste law/ Article 112 of Thailand's criminal code), the demonstrators carried out two different protests in different locations of the capital city.

Have a look |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thai-navy-undertakes-purrfect-rescue-to-save-cats-stuck-on-capsized-boat-367762">Thai Navy undertakes 'purrfect' rescue to save cats stuck on capsized boat</a>

The local police warned protestors against participating in the 'illegal' gatherings. "Protests are illegal. Anyone who joins or invites others to join is breaking the law," Piya Tavichai, deputy commissioner of Bangkok Metropolitan Police Bureau said in a news conference.

This has come a week after the Thailand police used rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannon on demonstrators for the first time, injuring 26 people.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has been urging people to stop the protests and respect the law. "We have to love each other and be united, not divided, and respect the law," he said in a podcast on Saturday morning.

His office has described the protests against the King as&nbsp;unlawful and inappropriate. However, there has;t been any comment on the demonstrations from the&nbsp;Royal Palace.

Hundreds of students gathered in the streets of the capital city, Bangkok, demanding the immediate release of the protest leaders who have been in jail for the past couple of days.

Hundreds of students gathered in the streets of the capital city, Bangkok, demanding the immediate release of the protest leaders who have been in jail for the past couple of days. A youth-led protest took place in the capital city on the weekend as hundreds of students and youngsters took to the streets defying the no-public gathering rule in the city. Also read | Thai military denies involvement in network removed by Facebook The demonstrators burned photographs of the Thai King, Maha Vajiralongkorn, and raised slogans against Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. With slogans such as 'Release our friends' and 'Abolish 112' (with reference to Thailand's lese majeste law/ Article 112 of Thailand's criminal code), the demonstrators carried out two different protests in different locations of the capital city. Have a look | Thai Navy undertakes 'purrfect' rescue to save cats stuck on capsized boat The local police warned protestors against participating in the 'illegal' gatherings. "Protests are illegal. Anyone who joins or invites others to join is breaking the law," Piya Tavichai, deputy commissioner of Bangkok Metropolitan Police Bureau said in a news conference. This has come a week after the Thailand police used rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannon on demonstrators for the first time, injuring 26 people. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has been urging people to stop the protests and respect the law. "We have to love each other and be united, not divided, and respect the law," he said in a podcast on Saturday morning. His office has described the protests against the King as unlawful and inappropriate. However, there has;t been any comment on the demonstrations from the Royal Palace.

'Release our friends': Students protest in Thailand for release of leaders

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister on Wednesday visited Thailand as efforts were on by the regional countries to broker end to three weeks of deadly unrest that has&nbsp;been triggered by military coup. Indonesia is in talks with the military junta as well.

Foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin held talks with his counterparts from Thailand and Indonesia in what was the first known face-to-face meetings between a senior junta member and foreign government officials.

The international condemnation over the coup has not deterred military junta so far. Daily nationwide protests have rocked Myanmar ever since government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi was removed by the military in February 1 coup.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said she expressed concerns about the safety and welfare of Myanmar citizens and reiterated a need for an "inclusive democratic transition process".

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"We ask all parties to exercise restraint and not use violence to avoid casualties and bloodshed," she told reporters in Jakarta.

Marsudi has been on a "shuttle diplomacy" mission over the past two weeks discussing the Myanmar crisis during visits to Brunei and Singapore as well as phone calls with other Southeast Asian counterparts.

She had hoped to travel to Naypyidaw after her visit to Bangkok to directly convey messages from Indonesia and other countries but confirmed the visit had to be postponed.

<h1>'Stop negotiating with them'</h1>

For second consecutive day on Wednesday, Indonesian embassy in Yangon saw gathering of protesters that decriedn Indonesian efforts to have a dialogue with military junta.

Angered that Jakarta was talking with the junta government -- officially named the State Administration Council -- demonstrators carried signs reading: "Stop negotiating with them" and "Indonesia, don't support dictator".

"The Military's State Administration Council is not our legitimate government," said participant Seinn Lae Maung, who had a Myanmar flag painted on her face.

"Please respect our votes and do hear our voices."

Marsudi later hit back at the criticism, warning: "To do nothing is not an option."

(With AFP inputs)

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister on Wednesday visited Thailand as efforts were on by the regional countries to broker end to three weeks of deadly unrest that has been triggered by military coup.

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister on Wednesday visited Thailand as efforts were on by the regional countries to broker end to three weeks of deadly unrest that has been triggered by military coup. Indonesia is in talks with the military junta as well. Foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin held talks with his counterparts from Thailand and Indonesia in what was the first known face-to-face meetings between a senior junta member and foreign government officials. The international condemnation over the coup has not deterred military junta so far. Daily nationwide protests have rocked Myanmar ever since government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi was removed by the military in February 1 coup. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said she expressed concerns about the safety and welfare of Myanmar citizens and reiterated a need for an "inclusive democratic transition process". × "We ask all parties to exercise restraint and not use violence to avoid casualties and bloodshed," she told reporters in Jakarta. Marsudi has been on a "shuttle diplomacy" mission over the past two weeks discussing the Myanmar crisis during visits to Brunei and Singapore as well as phone calls with other Southeast Asian counterparts. She had hoped to travel to Naypyidaw after her visit to Bangkok to directly convey messages from Indonesia and other countries but confirmed the visit had to be postponed. 'Stop negotiating with them' For second consecutive day on Wednesday, Indonesian embassy in Yangon saw gathering of protesters that decriedn Indonesian efforts to have a dialogue with military junta. Angered that Jakarta was talking with the junta government -- officially named the State Administration Council -- demonstrators carried signs reading: "Stop negotiating with them" and "Indonesia, don't support dictator". "The Military's State Administration Council is not our legitimate government," said participant Seinn Lae Maung, who had a Myanmar flag painted on her face. "Please respect our votes and do hear our voices." Marsudi later hit back at the criticism, warning: "To do nothing is not an option." (With AFP inputs)

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister in talks with Indonesia, Thailand

A Thai court on Wednesday sentenced 14 political leaders to jail, including three incumbent cabinet ministers, after finding them guilty of insurrection during anti-government protests that culminated in a 2014 military coup.

The court found 26 of 39 defendants guilty, a lawyer for the group said, for actions that included obstructing elections and invading government property, which took place during seven months of demonstrations against the government of Yingluck Shinawatra.

Digital Minister Puttipong Punnakanta, Education Minister Nataphol Teepsuwan and Deputy Transport Minister Thaworn Senneam received jail terms ranging from five years to seven years and four months. According to the country's constitution, they will be required to vacate their posts.

A government spokesman declined to give comment on jailed ministers, while the court could not be reached.

The ministers are all in the cabinet of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who led a coup that overthrew Yingluck in 2014, an intervention the military said was necessary to prevent bloodshed as protests against her intensified.

"They pleaded not guilty to all the charges and will appeal," said Sawat Charoenpon, a lawyer representing the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC), as the group is known.

PDRC leader and former deputy prime minister Suthep Thaugsuban was jailed for five years. Of those found guilty, 12 were given suspended sentences and six were released on bail.

"We the leaders of the PDRC have been convicted to many years in jail yet all of us still maintain our ideals of serving the nation, religion and king," Suthep posted on Facebook after the verdict.

The PDRC protests in 2013 and 2014 play a pivotal role in uniting royalist and nationalist forces against a government they said was controlled by fugitive tycoon and ousted former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, Yingluck's exiled brother. Both Shinawatras won elections by landslides.

Prayuth stayed on as prime minister after the coup and retained the post after a 2019 election, which he insists was free and fair, despite opposition allegations of foul play.

The former general endured months of street protests himself last year by a youth-led movement demanding his resignation, a new constitution and reforms to the monarchy.

A Thai court on Wednesday sentenced 14 political leaders to jail, including three incumbent cabinet ministers, after finding them guilty of insurrection during anti-government protests that culminated in a 2014 military coup.

A Thai court on Wednesday sentenced 14 political leaders to jail, including three incumbent cabinet ministers, after finding them guilty of insurrection during anti-government protests that culminated in a 2014 military coup. The court found 26 of 39 defendants guilty, a lawyer for the group said, for actions that included obstructing elections and invading government property, which took place during seven months of demonstrations against the government of Yingluck Shinawatra. Digital Minister Puttipong Punnakanta, Education Minister Nataphol Teepsuwan and Deputy Transport Minister Thaworn Senneam received jail terms ranging from five years to seven years and four months. According to the country's constitution, they will be required to vacate their posts. A government spokesman declined to give comment on jailed ministers, while the court could not be reached. The ministers are all in the cabinet of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who led a coup that overthrew Yingluck in 2014, an intervention the military said was necessary to prevent bloodshed as protests against her intensified. "They pleaded not guilty to all the charges and will appeal," said Sawat Charoenpon, a lawyer representing the People's Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC), as the group is known. PDRC leader and former deputy prime minister Suthep Thaugsuban was jailed for five years. Of those found guilty, 12 were given suspended sentences and six were released on bail. "We the leaders of the PDRC have been convicted to many years in jail yet all of us still maintain our ideals of serving the nation, religion and king," Suthep posted on Facebook after the verdict. The PDRC protests in 2013 and 2014 play a pivotal role in uniting royalist and nationalist forces against a government they said was controlled by fugitive tycoon and ousted former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, Yingluck's exiled brother. Both Shinawatras won elections by landslides. Prayuth stayed on as prime minister after the coup and retained the post after a 2019 election, which he insists was free and fair, despite opposition allegations of foul play. The former general endured months of street protests himself last year by a youth-led movement demanding his resignation, a new constitution and reforms to the monarchy.

Thai ministers jailed as court finds 26 guilty of insurrection

Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha has yet again survived a no-confidence vote in parliament on Saturday.

This time he has managed to rise from allegations that his government mismanaged the economy, bungled the provision of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccines</a>, corruption and misuse of human rights.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-pm-faces-no-confidence-debate-inside-and-outside-parliament-364894">Thai PM faces no-confidence debate inside and outside parliament</a>

Saturday's no-confidence vote was the second one that Prayuth's government has managed to survive since the administration took the office in July 2019.

Prayuth was accused of misusing his position and power as the Prime Minister to promote police officials and establishing cyber cells to silence all anti-government voices.

He has also been accused by the locals and opposition for using monarchy as a shield against criticism regarding democracy and government and deepening the societal differences in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/19-protesters-have-been-charged-with-sedition-in-thailand-364290">WATCH|</a>

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"The biggest fault of Prayuth is that he does not understand the principles of the constitutional monarchy." said Pita Limjaroenrat, leader of the opposition Move Forward Party. "He used the monarchy to protect himself whenever he was criticized or opposed. This is an evil action, making him no longer qualified to be prime minister."

Locals had been protesting against Prayuth for the past few months, and especially in the last few days against the no-confidence vote which they thought was being manipulated by Prayuth.

While the opposition and locals condemned the result, Prayuth said the debate in the Parliament was "a good opportunity for both sides to do something together for our country and people. And I am ready to clarify every allegation."

Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha has yet again survived a no-confidence vote in parliament on Saturday. This time he has managed to rise from allegations that his government mismanaged the economy, bungled the provision of coronavirus vaccines, corruption and misuse of human rights.

Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha has yet again survived a no-confidence vote in parliament on Saturday. This time he has managed to rise from allegations that his government mismanaged the economy, bungled the provision of coronavirus vaccines, corruption and misuse of human rights. Also read| Thai PM faces no-confidence debate inside and outside parliament Saturday's no-confidence vote was the second one that Prayuth's government has managed to survive since the administration took the office in July 2019. Prayuth was accused of misusing his position and power as the Prime Minister to promote police officials and establishing cyber cells to silence all anti-government voices. He has also been accused by the locals and opposition for using monarchy as a shield against criticism regarding democracy and government and deepening the societal differences in the country. WATCH| "The biggest fault of Prayuth is that he does not understand the principles of the constitutional monarchy." said Pita Limjaroenrat, leader of the opposition Move Forward Party. "He used the monarchy to protect himself whenever he was criticized or opposed. This is an evil action, making him no longer qualified to be prime minister." Locals had been protesting against Prayuth for the past few months, and especially in the last few days against the no-confidence vote which they thought was being manipulated by Prayuth. While the opposition and locals condemned the result, Prayuth said the debate in the Parliament was "a good opportunity for both sides to do something together for our country and people. And I am ready to clarify every allegation."

Thailand's prime minister survives second no-confidence vote; locals protest

Come Valentine's Day, lovers across Bangkok will be heartbroken as city officials have declared on Wednesday that all of the Thai capital's 50 districts will be banned from issuing marriage licenses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The holiday, immensely popular across the kingdom, is also typically considered an auspicious day for couples to tie the knot resulting in large queues at marriage registration offices across the city. &nbsp;

The most popular district is Bang Rak, which translates as 'district of love' in Thai. &nbsp;

But the hopes of eager-to-wed couples have been dashed. &nbsp;

"Bangkok's 50 district offices will refrain from providing marriage license registration service on this Valentine's Day," Thailand's Public Relations Department said on Twitter. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"The cancellation aims to prevent the spread of #Covid19." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The announcement also said Chinese New Year festival, which usually involves a raucous parade in Bangkok's Chinatown, will not go on. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Last year, Bang Rak district had scores of couples dressed in matching outfits or formal wear lining up before dawn to register for licenses, helped by pink-shirted civil servants wearing 'love' headbands. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Little fanfare has been made among the city's malls and businesses compared to previous years, though that hasn't stopped some restaurants for punting out Valentine's Day-themed meal offerings. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Burger King Thailand has debuted 'Black and Pink burgers' for Valentine's Day, featuring a pink salmon patty with rose-colour buns. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Last year, Thailand was faring well in handling the pandemic but infections have climbed to more than 23,000 cases after a new wave hit in December. &nbsp;

This has led to a partial lockdown in Bangkok, with authorities banning bars and alcohol sales in restaurants.

Come Valentine's Day, lovers across Bangkok will be heartbroken as city officials have declared on Wednesday that all of the Thai capital's 50 districts will be banned from issuing marriage licenses.

Come Valentine's Day, lovers across Bangkok will be heartbroken as city officials have declared on Wednesday that all of the Thai capital's 50 districts will be banned from issuing marriage licenses. The holiday, immensely popular across the kingdom, is also typically considered an auspicious day for couples to tie the knot resulting in large queues at marriage registration offices across the city. The most popular district is Bang Rak, which translates as 'district of love' in Thai. But the hopes of eager-to-wed couples have been dashed. "Bangkok's 50 district offices will refrain from providing marriage license registration service on this Valentine's Day," Thailand's Public Relations Department said on Twitter. "The cancellation aims to prevent the spread of #Covid19." The announcement also said Chinese New Year festival, which usually involves a raucous parade in Bangkok's Chinatown, will not go on. Last year, Bang Rak district had scores of couples dressed in matching outfits or formal wear lining up before dawn to register for licenses, helped by pink-shirted civil servants wearing 'love' headbands. Little fanfare has been made among the city's malls and businesses compared to previous years, though that hasn't stopped some restaurants for punting out Valentine's Day-themed meal offerings. Burger King Thailand has debuted 'Black and Pink burgers' for Valentine's Day, featuring a pink salmon patty with rose-colour buns. Last year, Thailand was faring well in handling the pandemic but infections have climbed to more than 23,000 cases after a new wave hit in December. This has led to a partial lockdown in Bangkok, with authorities banning bars and alcohol sales in restaurants.

Covid Cupid shoots down Valentine's Day marriages in Bangkok

A Thailand court has denied bail to four popular democracy activists who had been charged with violation of the kingdom's royal defamation law.

Four activists were charged for defaming the royal family of Thailand and the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha during a series of protests that took place in the country last year.

Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thailand-celebrates-its-teachers-day-with-fresh-protests-357148">Thailand celebrates its Teachers' Day with fresh protests</a>

Thousands had flocked to the streets to raise voices against the government and the monarch family alleging them of mistreatment and corruption. However, these protests were not welcomed by the authorities.

Criticism of monarchy is considered to be illegal in the kingdom and carries penalties of up to 15 years in jail.

Among these four activists is also the popular student activist Parit Chiwarak, also known as Penguin, and human rights lawyer Anon Numpa. While Numpa has been charged with lese majeste at least seven times, Chiwarak has been charged more than a dozen times.&nbsp;

The four will have to undergo a pre-trial before they can formally stand trial.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-confirms-374-new-covid-19-cases-357301">Thailand confirms 374 new COVID-19 cases</a>

Nearly 50 people have been charged with the same in the past but while usually people have been granted bail, for the first time four activists have been denied bail.

"The court has not allowed bail based on it being a case with high penalties, and the defendants may repeat the actions," said Krisadang Nutcharut, a lawyer for the activists.&nbsp;

In addition to this, the four activists have also been indicted for sedition and may face a penalty of seven years in jail, if proven guilty. They have also been charged with violating anti-gathering rules and other laws.

A Thailand court has denied bail to four popular democracy activists who had been charged with violation of the kingdom's royal defamation law. Four activists were charged for defaming the royal family of Thailand and the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha during a series of protests that took place in the country last year.

A Thailand court has denied bail to four popular democracy activists who had been charged with violation of the kingdom's royal defamation law. Four activists were charged for defaming the royal family of Thailand and the government of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha during a series of protests that took place in the country last year. Also see| Thailand celebrates its Teachers' Day with fresh protests Thousands had flocked to the streets to raise voices against the government and the monarch family alleging them of mistreatment and corruption. However, these protests were not welcomed by the authorities. Criticism of monarchy is considered to be illegal in the kingdom and carries penalties of up to 15 years in jail. Among these four activists is also the popular student activist Parit Chiwarak, also known as Penguin, and human rights lawyer Anon Numpa. While Numpa has been charged with lese majeste at least seven times, Chiwarak has been charged more than a dozen times. The four will have to undergo a pre-trial before they can formally stand trial. Also read| Thailand confirms 374 new COVID-19 cases Nearly 50 people have been charged with the same in the past but while usually people have been granted bail, for the first time four activists have been denied bail. "The court has not allowed bail based on it being a case with high penalties, and the defendants may repeat the actions," said Krisadang Nutcharut, a lawyer for the activists. In addition to this, the four activists have also been indicted for sedition and may face a penalty of seven years in jail, if proven guilty. They have also been charged with violating anti-gathering rules and other laws.

In a first, four Thai pro-democracy activists denied bail for defaming royals

Everything's paw-sible: Thai shelter for disabled dogs fights pandemic

Thailand on Sunday confirmed 374 new COVID-19 cases, mostly detected among migrant workers, according to the Center for the COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).Of the new cases, 364 were domestic infections while 10 others were those who had returned from abroad and tested positive in this country, said CCSA spokesman Taweesin Visanuyothin.

Some 311 of the domestic cases were detected in Samut Sakhon, where the latest outbreak was first reported in mid-December, including 193 Myanmar migrants and 118 Thai nationals, according to the CCSA spokesman.This came after Samut Sakhon`s provincial public health units had conducted active testing for the coronavirus among factory workers and other residents. This has brought Thailand`s total caseloads to 12,054, with more than 7,000 of these infections reported since mid-December. The death toll remained at 70, according to the CCSA.

Thailand on Sunday confirmed 374 new COVID-19 cases, mostly detected among migrant workers, according to the Center for the COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).

Thailand on Sunday confirmed 374 new COVID-19 cases, mostly detected among migrant workers, according to the Center for the COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA).Of the new cases, 364 were domestic infections while 10 others were those who had returned from abroad and tested positive in this country, said CCSA spokesman Taweesin Visanuyothin. Some 311 of the domestic cases were detected in Samut Sakhon, where the latest outbreak was first reported in mid-December, including 193 Myanmar migrants and 118 Thai nationals, according to the CCSA spokesman.This came after Samut Sakhon`s provincial public health units had conducted active testing for the coronavirus among factory workers and other residents. This has brought Thailand`s total caseloads to 12,054, with more than 7,000 of these infections reported since mid-December. The death toll remained at 70, according to the CCSA.

Thailand confirms 374 new COVID-19 cases

Thailand celebrates its Teachers' Day with fresh protests

“Giggling bread” and “joyfully dancing salad” aren’t the usual dishes on a menu in Thailand, but one eatery is hoping its cannabis-infused cuisine can lure foreign tourists and take the taboo out of the recently legalised leaf.

The restaurant at the Chao Phya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Prachin Buri started serving its own happy meals this month, after Thailand de-listed cannabis as a narcotic, allowing state-authorised firms to cultivate the plant.

“Cannabis leaves, when put in the food or even a small amount ... it will help the patient to recover faster from the illness,” said Pakakrong Kwankao, the project leader at the hospital.

“The cannabis leaf can improve appetite and make people sleep well, and also be in a mood, in a good mood.”

The hospital is known as a pioneer in Thailand for studying marijuana and its ability to relieve pain and fatigue.

Thailand in 2017 became the first Southeast Asian country to legalise cannabis for medical use and has since opened numerous medical marijuana clinics.

The restaurant’s offerings include a happy pork soup, deep-fried bread topped with pork and a marijuana leaf, and a salad of crispy cannabis leaves served with ground pork and chopped vegetables.

"I’ve never taken cannabis before, it feels weird but it’s delicious,” said diner Ketsirin Boonsiri, adding it was “quite strange”.

Nattanon Naranan said the taste of the cannabis leaves was similar to everyday vegetables, but the after-effects were quite different.

“It makes my throat dry and I crave sweets,” she said.

Thai deputy education minister Kanokwan Vilawan said the next step was to offer famous Thai dishes to reach an international audience.

“We plan to add more (cannabis) to Thai dishes that are already well known, such as green curry soup, to boost the popularity of these dishes even more,” Kanokwan said.

“Giggling bread” and “joyfully dancing salad” aren’t the usual dishes on a menu in Thailand, but one eatery is hoping its cannabis-infused cuisine can lure foreign tourists and take the taboo out of the recently legalised leaf.

“Giggling bread” and “joyfully dancing salad” aren’t the usual dishes on a menu in Thailand, but one eatery is hoping its cannabis-infused cuisine can lure foreign tourists and take the taboo out of the recently legalised leaf. The restaurant at the Chao Phya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Prachin Buri started serving its own happy meals this month, after Thailand de-listed cannabis as a narcotic, allowing state-authorised firms to cultivate the plant. “Cannabis leaves, when put in the food or even a small amount ... it will help the patient to recover faster from the illness,” said Pakakrong Kwankao, the project leader at the hospital. “The cannabis leaf can improve appetite and make people sleep well, and also be in a mood, in a good mood.” The hospital is known as a pioneer in Thailand for studying marijuana and its ability to relieve pain and fatigue. Thailand in 2017 became the first Southeast Asian country to legalise cannabis for medical use and has since opened numerous medical marijuana clinics. The restaurant’s offerings include a happy pork soup, deep-fried bread topped with pork and a marijuana leaf, and a salad of crispy cannabis leaves served with ground pork and chopped vegetables. "I’ve never taken cannabis before, it feels weird but it’s delicious,” said diner Ketsirin Boonsiri, adding it was “quite strange”. Nattanon Naranan said the taste of the cannabis leaves was similar to everyday vegetables, but the after-effects were quite different. “It makes my throat dry and I crave sweets,” she said. Thai deputy education minister Kanokwan Vilawan said the next step was to offer famous Thai dishes to reach an international audience. “We plan to add more (cannabis) to Thai dishes that are already well known, such as green curry soup, to boost the popularity of these dishes even more,” Kanokwan said.

'Giggling bread' and 'dancing salad': Thailand serves up cannabis cuisine to happy customers

&nbsp;

In one of the most heart-warming incidents, a rescue worker was spotted trying to give CPR to a baby elephant who was hit by a motorbike.

Mana Srivate, a rescue worker from Thailand, has been in the profession of healthcare for the last 26 years and has performed&nbsp;dozens of resuscitation. However, never did he think he would have to perform one on an elephant.

In&nbsp;the eastern province of Chanthaburi, a motorcyclist crashed into a baby elephant who was crossing the road with his herd. Both, the elephant and the motorcyclist, were injured in the collision after which emergency services were called.

While the unit served to the motorcyclist,&nbsp;Srivate helped the baby elephant who was lying in the middle of the road. His act was captured on video which was circulated on Thailand's social media.

In the video,&nbsp;Srivate can be seen&nbsp;giving two-handed compressions to a small elephant lying on its side as colleagues a few metres away treat a dazed and injured motorcycle rider.

"It’s my instinct to save lives, but I was worried the whole time because I can hear the mother and other elephants calling for the baby," Srivate said. "I assumed where an elephant heart would be located based on human theory and a video clip I saw online."

Recalling the moment the baby elephant came back to his senses and showed signs of movement, he said, "When the baby elephant starting to move, I almost cried."

The elephant was taken to a nearby location for treatment and was later returned to the same spot after it made recovery. Immediately after the baby elephant called out its mother, the herd of elephants came back to help the baby of the family.

This was also a special case for Srivate as this baby elephant was the only one who had ever revived after CPR, even though Srivate has given the treatment to dozens of victims.

The motorcyclist, too, was given treatment and he recovered soon from the shock and non-life-threatening injuries.

In one of the most heart-warming incidents, a rescue worker was spotted trying to give CPR to a baby elephant who was hit by a motorbike. Mana Srivate, a rescue worker from Thailand, has been in the profession of healthcare for the last 26 years and has performed dozens of resuscitation.

In one of the most heart-warming incidents, a rescue worker was spotted trying to give CPR to a baby elephant who was hit by a motorbike. Mana Srivate, a rescue worker from Thailand, has been in the profession of healthcare for the last 26 years and has performed dozens of resuscitation. However, never did he think he would have to perform one on an elephant. In the eastern province of Chanthaburi, a motorcyclist crashed into a baby elephant who was crossing the road with his herd. Both, the elephant and the motorcyclist, were injured in the collision after which emergency services were called. While the unit served to the motorcyclist, Srivate helped the baby elephant who was lying in the middle of the road. His act was captured on video which was circulated on Thailand's social media. In the video, Srivate can be seen giving two-handed compressions to a small elephant lying on its side as colleagues a few metres away treat a dazed and injured motorcycle rider. "It’s my instinct to save lives, but I was worried the whole time because I can hear the mother and other elephants calling for the baby," Srivate said. "I assumed where an elephant heart would be located based on human theory and a video clip I saw online." Recalling the moment the baby elephant came back to his senses and showed signs of movement, he said, "When the baby elephant starting to move, I almost cried." The elephant was taken to a nearby location for treatment and was later returned to the same spot after it made recovery. Immediately after the baby elephant called out its mother, the herd of elephants came back to help the baby of the family. This was also a special case for Srivate as this baby elephant was the only one who had ever revived after CPR, even though Srivate has given the treatment to dozens of victims. The motorcyclist, too, was given treatment and he recovered soon from the shock and non-life-threatening injuries.

Thailand's rescue worker gives CPR to baby elephant hit by motorbike

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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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..<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twitter-service-restored-following-global-platform-outage-335610">Read More</a>

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kamala-harris-suspends-travel-plans-harris-shared-flight-with-2-people-who-later-tested-positive-335606">Kamala Harris suspends travel plans: Harris shared flight with 2 people who later tested positive</a>

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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

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