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Protesters during the protests in Bangkok
Photo: Wason Wanichakorn / AP
Tens of thousands of people protested against the political leadership of Thailand in Bangkok despite warnings from the police.
The demonstrators called for democratic reforms and a new prime minister to be elected.
The controversial officer Prayuth Chan-Ocha, a former army general, came to power in 2014 and was confirmed in office a year ago.
The demonstrators also called for the abolition of a law punishing lese majesty with up to 15 years in prison.
"As long as the monarchy is not subordinated to the constitution, we will never have real democracy," said protest leader Arnon Nampa, a human rights lawyer, at a rally.
Prime Minister Chan-Ocha, who is at the center of criticism, accuses protesters of acting unreasonably during the corona pandemic.
Only when Covid-19 has been defeated should one talk about politics, he said.
The hashtag "Why do we need a king" has been shared millions of times
Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn is also controversial: "Why do we need a king" was shared millions of times on social media in Thailand.
The son of the once very revered King Bhumipol rules mostly from his residence in Bavaria, spending millions on expensive hobbies make bad headlines.
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bah / Reuters / AP
