On Sunday, Bangkok’s newly elected Governor Chadchart Sittipunt said the City Hall would review the decision to designate seven venues for public demonstrations in the capital after a month to check the plan is going as expected.
While there have been no related issues so far, the capital’s governor wants to review the use of the seven rally grounds to ensure that people have places to express their opinions.
Mr. Chadchart said he was encouraged by the peaceful demonstration and atmosphere in Lan Khon Muang on Friday. Therefore, he hoped that opening seven sites for protest activities would put an end to the political conflicts in the city.
The City Hall recently designated seven sites in Bangkok where people can hold demonstrations under the Public Assembly Law. Although the activities’ organizers must obtain prior permission and comply with related laws, the announcement has received a positive response from various political groups and protesters.
The seven designated sites include Lan Khon Muang ground in front of City Hall, the Chalerm Phrakiat Stadium in Thung Khru district, the Thai-Japanese Youth Center in Din Daeng district and the public space beneath Ratchavibha Bridge near Soi Vibhavadi Rangsit 36 in Chatuchak. district.
Monthon Phirom Park in Taling Chan district, the car park in front of the Phra Khanong district office, and the 72nd Anniversary Stadium in Min Buri district were also among them.
Lan Khon Muang in front of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration office near the Giant Swing was the first site used to hold demonstrations.
On Friday, members of the political group We Volunteer, also known as “We Vo,” gathered there to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Siamese Revolution, which took place on June 24, 1932.
Mr. Chadchart said the plan was moving in the right direction but clarified that it will be in a trial period for at least a month.
In addition, the protesting groups are expected to address other non-political issues at the designated demonstration grounds to show that the city’s residents can co-exist with different opinions, the governor said.
“The sites are not limited to political issues. Social issues can be raised there. Democracy respects differences of opinions. Any society where all people think the same is scary,” he added.
