Thailand: Increased security likely in Bangkok through at least early September following appointment of new prime minister /update 6

Event

Authorities will likely maintain a heightened security posture in Bangkok through at least early September following the conclusion of the general election. On Aug. 22, a parliamentary vote confirmed Pheu Thai Party (PTP) candidate Srettha Thavisin's appointment as Thailand’s new prime minister after months of political deadlock following the May general election. Srettha’s appointment comes after the constitutional court upheld parliament’s decision to deny election winner, Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat, renomination as a prime ministerial candidate Aug. 16. Celebratory gatherings by PTP supporters, as well as protests by MFP supporters and pro-democracy groups, remain possible over the coming days.

Potential gathering sites for protests include prominent government buildings such as City Hall, Election Commission, Government House, Parliament Complex, and the Supreme Court; public squares such as the Democracy and Victory monuments; and Pheu Thai Party (PTP) and Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) headquarters. Other popular rally locations include the Asok, Din Daeng, and Ratchaprasong intersections. Previous well-attended gatherings have drawn hundreds of participants.

Officials typically implement cordons and road closures near demonstration sites, especially outside of government buildings. Security personnel have previously conducted mass arrests when demonstrators are perceived to be overly disruptive or if determined to be violating any public gathering permit requirements. Clashes between activists and police cannot be ruled out. Demonstrators could march along roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions. Localized business disruptions are also possible.

Context

Despite winning the majority of seats in Parliament, the anti-establishment and progressive Move Forward Party (MFP) has failed twice to form the government, amid resistance from conservative lawmakers allied with the royalist military. The prime minister is elected by the 250-member Senate, consisting of members appointed by a committee controlled by the Thai military. Pro-democracy experts contend that the rule undermines electoral results and helps the military maintain political power.

The Pheu Thai Party (PTP), which came in second in the election, has formed the new government with a coalition consisting of military-linked parties and the third-largest Bhumjaithai Party (BJT), having withdrawn from a coalition with MFP on Aug. 2. In recent weeks, peaceful protests have occurred at PTP and BJT headquarters, as well as Pathumwan and Ratchaprasong intersections, following PTP's withdrawal from the MFP coalition.

Separately, several hundred supporters of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra gathered at the private jet terminal of Don Mueang Airport (DMK) during his return to Thailand from self-exile Aug. 22. Thaksin, who is the founder of PTP, served as prime minister from 2001 to 2006 and had gone into self-exile following legal challenges and accusations of corruption. Following his return, Thaksin was sentenced to eight years in jail and subsequently hospitalized due to health concerns.

Advice

Avoid all demonstrations as a precaution. If any violence occurs nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter at a safe, nongovernmental building. Plan for possible localized transport and business disruptions during any rallies. Remain cooperative if stopped by officials for security checks. Carry proper identification documents at all times. Heed all official transport and security advisories.