Protesters to keep rallying 'for 30 days'

Protesters demanding a 10-baht-per-litre cut in diesel prices and measures to ease the cost of living plan to remain outside Government House for an initial 30 days, their leader said on Monday.

Led by Mano Khrueakaew, kamnan of tambon Krabi Noi in Krabi's Muang district and head of the People's Revolutionary Alliance to Protect the Nation, the protesters are also demanding action on falling agricultural prices and drug-related problems affecting communities nationwide.

The protesters arrived outside Government House at 8.30pm on Sunday and began setting up a stage near Chamai Maruchet Bridge on Monday morning, facing Nang Loeng intersection.

Several surrounding roads were closed to traffic, while police were deployed to maintain security.

At 11am on Monday, Mr Mano visited Sondhi Limthongkul, a former leader of the People's Alliance for Democracy, at Baan Phra Athit to discuss protest strategy.

He later said the demonstration would initially last 30 days, denying that he had suggested it would continue until a parliamentary no-confidence debate, the timing of which he said he did not know.

He acknowledged that protesters were considering further action but said he would consult his working team before making any decisions. He stressed that the rally would remain peaceful and non-violent.

Among those expected to address the demonstrators were Pol Gen Sereepisuth Temeeyaves, leader of the Seri Ruam Thai Party, on the Khao Kradong land dispute, and lawyer and political activist Phattharaphong Suphaksorn on alleged collusion in the Senate election.

More than 100 residents from several districts of Nakhon Ratchasima travelled to Bangkok to join the rally, bringing grievances over a potash mine in Dan Khun Thot district, a waste-to-energy project in Kham Sakae Saeng district and the relocation of the 2029 World Horticultural Expo from Khong to Pak Chong district.

They alleged that mining activities had increased soil and water salinity, affecting farmland and waterways. Residents near the waste-to-energy project also raised concerns about odours, wastewater and possible pollution.

Protest representative Thawin Rattanaporn said participating groups were preparing their demands for submission to the government. He welcomed reports that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul was willing to meet the protesters and urged him to follow through.

Meanwhile, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Sayam Boonsom said the restriction on demonstrations within 50 metres of Government House was intended to maintain public order and safety.

He said police officers would initially warn demonstrators of any violations but could take legal action and seek court orders if they ignored the warnings.