PROTESTERS demanding 10-baht a litre reduction in fuel prices are not calling off their rally near Government House despite late night discussions between the their leader, Mr. Mano Kruakaew, aka Kamnan Mano, and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, PPTVHD36 said this afternoon (Nov. 14).
Kamnan Mano, who is from Krabi and heads the People’s Revolutionary Front for the Defence of the Land, revealed details of talks with Anutin who visited the protesters together with several cabinet members.
Anutin had thanked the demonstrators for their cooperation and adherence to order. In response, Kamnan Mano reiterated their demand for a 10-baht cut in fuel prices—a measure he argues could be implemented immediately. The Prime Minister, however, suggested that such a move would be difficult, though he pledged to implement as much as possible.
Regarding the issue of the drug crisis, Kamnan Mano stated that he had outlined the structural operations of drug trafficking networks to the Prime Minister, expressing hope for more concrete, tangible changes.
Nevertheless, the Prime Minister’s visit last night does not mean the protesters will call off their demonstration with Kamnan Mano confirming that the protest will continue for at least one month, as originally planned.
He further remarked that the Prime Minister’s appearance was likely a psychological tactic—intended to create the impression that a dialogue had taken place and an agreement reached with the protesters.
In reality, this move will only lead to an even larger number of people gathering at the protest site.
The protesters reaffirmed their plan to escalate their demonstration on Monday (Nov. 16) by marching from Chamai Maruchet Bridge to the Energy Ministry—a distance of approximately 12km. They are demanding that Energy Minister Auttapol Rerkpiboon reveal the current volume of oil reserves. Furthermore, they have raised the question of why Thailand must purchase oil from abroad when the country already possesses sufficient natural resources.
CAPTIONS:
This and Front Page: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul holding talks with the protesters last night (Nov. 13), above, and walking to the protest site with some ministers, first insert.
Second insert: Kamnan Mano talking to the press today (Nov. 14). All photos – PPTVHD36
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