"Thai Cabinet approves curbs on protests" AP November 19, 2014
BANGKOK — Thailand’s military-installed Cabinet on Tuesday approved in principle a bill curbing public gatherings following years of political demonstrations that led to violence and often paralyzed the country’s capital.
The bill, proposed by the police department, would require protesters to inform police about rallies at least 24 hours before they are held and would ban all such activities at night, said Major General Sansern Kaewkamnerd, a government spokesman.
He said it would also ban all demonstrations at the prime minister’s office, other government offices, courts, airports, train stations, and bus terminals.
The military declared martial law and staged a coup earlier this year after months of often violent protests. Under martial law, all political gatherings of five or more people are banned, though enforcement is sporadic.
Thailand has had several massive rallies in the past decade that spread to government offices, Bangkok’s business district, and airports.
Sansern said the bill provides for the right to peaceful assembly under democratic principles.
Junta leader and interim Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said there may be some changes to the bill to make it fair in matters such as the time and place of rallies.
The bill must be approved by the government’s legal advisory board and the military-installed National Legislative Assembly before taking effect.
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Related: 7 senior officials arrested in Thai police scandal
Also see: Thailand
