BANGKOK: Protests have been growing in Thailand against the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, a former junta leader, with some protesters also calling for reforms of King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s monarchy.
Below is a timeline of events since Prayuth was appointed prime minister after an election in March 2019. He rejects accusations the electoral laws were fixed in his favour.
June 9, 2019 – The king endorses Prayuth as prime minister, keeping him in the post he first took in a 2014 coup.
Nov. 20 – Constitutional court disqualifies vocal opposition figure Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit as a member of parliament, saying he violated electoral law. He disputes the ruling.
Dec. 14 – Several thousand protesters demonstrate in Bangkok to protest against Thanathorn’s disqualification and the moves to ban his Future Forward party.
Feb. 21, 2020 – Constitutional court bans Future Forward. The next day, hundreds of people join a protest against the decision.
March 26 – Thai authorities impose a state of emergency to stop the spread of the coronavirus, limiting gatherings and travel.
July 18 – The Free Youth group draws about 2,500 to a protest in Bangkok and makes three demands: dissolve parliament, amend the constitution and stop harassing critics.
Aug. 3 – Human rights lawyer Arnon Nampa makes an unprecedented call for reform of the monarchy at a protest with a Harry Potter theme.
Aug. 10 – Students at Thammasat University list 10 demands for reforming the monarchy, including abolition of lese majeste law against criticising the king.
Aug. 16 – More than 10,000 people join a protest at Bangkok’s Democracy Monument.
Sept. 19 – Thousands protest at Thammasat University in Bangkok on the anniversary of the 2006 coup that overthrew populist prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
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