Thai protesters to hold candlelight vigil for King
Thailand’s anti-government protesters said they will hold a candlelight vigil Wednesday to honour the revered monarch, who has been in hospital since September.
The “Red Shirts” loyal to fugitive former premier Thaksin Shinawatra have been demonstrating since March 14, pushing for snap elections to replace a government they criticise as elitist and undemocratic.
“Tomorrow we will light candles at eight o’clock in the evening to bless His Majesty the King’s good health and to show our loyalty to the monarchy,” Reds leader Jatuporn Prompan said Tuesday.
Thaksin, who lives in exile to avoid a jail term for corruption, has been accused by his critics of disloyalty to King Bhumibol Adulyadej — a grave offence in Thailand, where the monarch is regarded by many as a demi-god.
