09 Apr 2021 | 06:00 AM UTC
Thailand: Activists plan to demonstrate at Ratchada Criminal Court in Bangkok from 13:00 April 9
Activists plan to gather at Ratchada Criminal Court in Bangkok, Thailand, from 13:00 April 9. Tight security likely.
Event
Pro-democracy activists plan to demonstrate outside the Criminal Court of Thailand (Ratchada Criminal Court) on Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok from 13:00 April 9. Protesters are demanding justice after several courts denied bail to multiple pro-democracy leaders detained for charges related to past rallies. Dozens to several hundred people could participate in the demonstration. The pro-democracy group Ratsadon has promoted the action, likely boosting the turnout. Pro-government groups may stage counterprotests.
Authorities will likely bolster security near the court and nearby government buildings April 9. Localized transport and business disruptions are possible, especially if activists occupy nearby streets. Police will probably disperse demonstrators if they attempt to bypass security barriers. Clashes between rival groups, as well as between protesters and security personnel, are possible. Mass arrests may occur if security forces determine demonstrators violate COVID-19 restrictions, lese majeste laws that ban alleged insults against the monarchy, or public gathering permit requirements.
Context
Royalist and pro-democracy activists have staged multiple rival demonstrations in Bangkok and other cities nationwide since July 2020. Pro-democracy groups are denouncing the current government's alleged non-democratic policies and are demanding political reforms, such as rewriting the constitution and Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha's resignation. However, royalist groups claim that pro-democracy agendas undermine the monarchy and state institutions and have demonstrated against actions or organizations that they deem are disrespectful of the monarchy.
Advice
Avoid the Criminal Court of Thailand and the surrounding area April 9 as a precaution. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. If violence occurs nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a nongovernment building. Plan for possible localized transport disruptions and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations.
