Thailand: Ban on political activities lifted December 11

Event

The National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) lifted on Tuesday, December 11, the ban on political gatherings and activities that has been in place since 2014. As such, street rallies are likely to resume in the coming weeks and months. However, as a reminder, local laws stipulate that plans for any political gatherings should be submitted to the police and local authorities at least 24 hours in advance.

Context

The NCPO imposed the ban when it took power in May 2014 following a peaceful coup, stating the need for order after months of street protests to denounce the democratically elected government of former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Thailand will hold a much-delayed general election on February 24, 2019.

Advice

The political environment remains volatile in Thailand. As a precaution, individuals present in the country are advised to monitor the situation via local media, avoid all protests and political gatherings, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.