Thai govt to face test on the streets

Thai govt to face test on the streets

BANGKOK (AFP): The Thai government faces its biggest street protests since 1992 tomorrow when a huge gathering is planned in front of parliament to support a pro-democracy hunger striker.

Protesters from across Thailand are expected for the event, which is likely to have a major impact on national politics.

It also comes at a bad time for the governing coalition, which appears increasingly divided over how to respond to demands for constitutional change.

Last Wednesday, a first rally to support Chalard Vorachat attracted 10,000 people, including many activists involved in the May 1992 uprising that forced the military junta out of power. Chalard, who yesterday entered his 20th day without food, is surrounded by a cage on a pavement opposite parliament.

The rally gave birth to a coalition of movements, the Organization of Political Reform. Including the important Student Federation of Thailand and the Confederation for Democracy, it has given a national emphasis to the coming protest.