Severe traffic congestion as protesters disrupt IMF-World Bank meetings

A GROUP of approximately 600 protesters disrupted the IMF-World Bank meetings taking place at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre this morning (Oct. 15) causing severe traffic congestion with motorists advised to avoid this area, Amarin TV and Naewna newspaper said.

The demonstrators, who are part of a network opposing IMF and World Bank, marched from Na Ranong intersection toward Sunthon Kosa road and onto the outbound lanes of Rama IV road. Their objective was to reach the convention centre to present demands to IMF executives during the IMF-World Bank 2026 meetings.

By 8:30 a.m., police had started negotiating with the protesters, urging them to move back from Rama IV road to help ease traffic flow. It remains to be seen whether the protesters will be able to reach the venue.

Additionally, today and tomorrow (Oct. 15-16), a section of Ratchadaphisek road—stretching from Asok Montri intersection (Sukhumvit road) to the Rama IV intersection—has been closed to traffic to ensure security for the key global meetings.

According to the organisers, the protest was intended to voice the concerns of citizens and communities nationwide affected by the development policies and economic approaches of IMF and World Bank. The objective was to raise questions and assert the right of the people to determine their own future.

The protest featured various forms of symbolic expression, including speeches, panel discussions, a fashion show, music, rap performances, and other creative activities.

However, the demonstration took place under high-level security measures and in violation of recently enacted legal restrictions. The Royal Gazette had recently published an announcement from the Office of the Prime Minister, issued under Section 8(5) of the Public Assembly Act of 2015, designating the venue of the conference as an area where obstructing entrances or exits, or interfering with operations, is strictly prohibited.

Meanwhile a government spokesperson has refuted “fake news” claiming that IMF criticised Thailand, describing it as a deliberate attempt to discredit the country and tarnish its reputation. The public is urged to verify information before sharing it.

Mr. Ekkapob Pianpiset, spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, further clarified that the 2% GDP figure does not represent the full picture, emphasising that Thailand’s economy continues to grow.

The public was urged to be mindful of certain negative reports that appear to be intentionally circulated to discredit the event—falsely suggesting that Thailand has failed to seize opportunities or is facing criticism.

For instance, some news outlets claimed that an IMF executive criticised Thailand; in reality, the official’s remarks contained no such criticism. Instead, the official discussed broader global challenges.

In fact, the official actually praised Thailand, noting that the country stands to benefit from the rise of AI technology and is situated in a region with significant economic potential for international trade. The news outlet in question, however, distorted these statements and disseminated false information. The government has already forwarded this information to the Public Relations Department’s Anti-Fake News Centre.

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This and Front Page: Protesters near IMF-World Bank meetings at Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre. All photos – Amarin TV

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