BANGKOK- Thailand's beleaguered king greeted adoring crowds in central Bangkok on Wednesday as protesters massed outside a palace-linked bank demanding monarchy reform.
"The monarchy issue can be discussed, but with respect, not hate," royalist leader Warong Dechgitvigrom told The Straits Times at the park."If you are disappointed with the government, blame the government, not the monarchy." Although the protest ended peacefully, local media reports say one protester was shot in the abdomen afterwards. The suspect has reportedly been apprehended.
In June, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha revealed that the king had asked the government not to use the lese majeste law on civilians. The moratorium appears to have been lifted this week, with at least seven protest leaders summoned to acknowledge the charge of insulting or defaming the monarchy, which could result them being jailed for up to 15 years.
Lawmakers last week voted to begin the process of amending the Constitution - a core demand of protesters - but rejected any move which would touch on the powers of the monarchy. Protesters meanwhile have rejected Lower House speaker Chuan Leekpai's attempts to convene a"reconciliation committee", arguing it will go nowhere.
He looks unwell.
Singapore Latest News, Singapore Headlines
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