Thaksin supporters gather for protest
Wednesday, 25 February 2009
BANGKOK, Feb 24 (AFP): Thousands of supporters of Thailand's ousted former premier Thaksin Shinawatra gathered in Bangkok Tuesday, preparing to surround the seat of government just days ahead of a major regional summit.
The red-shirted protesters want Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to hold fresh elections and meet other demands. Abhisit came to power in December after a court dissolved the previous, pro-Thaksin government.
Police said around 8,000 demonstrators had gathered at a central Bangkok parade ground ahead of their planned march on Government House. Hundreds of riot police and soldiers stood guard outside the building.
The red-shirted protesters want Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to hold fresh elections and meet other demands. Abhisit came to power in December after a court dissolved the previous, pro-Thaksin government.
Police said around 8,000 demonstrators had gathered at a central Bangkok parade ground ahead of their planned march on Government House. Hundreds of riot police and soldiers stood guard outside the building.