Anti-government demonstrators, known as "Red Shirts," have gathered in Bangkok for what they promise will be a non-violent "million man march" this March. They intend to paralyze the Thai capital and force the government to call elections.
Buried underneath this festive spectacle is a serious political goal. Protesters are calling for the end of Thailand's current government.?
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Suthep Thaugsuban, Thai Deputy Prime Minister, said, "Our 50,000 security personnel are not armed, and I've made it clear that the only people who will carry weapons are police officers on regular duty to patrol and keep peace in residential areas. The soldiers and other force handling the protest will not be armed."
Thai officials have also warned of potential sabotage, including arson and bombings. Several roads close to areas where demonstrators may march have already been closed.?
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