Tires & Wrecks in the Street

When the PAD protesters stormed and began their occupation of several government buildings a few months ago, they blockaded many of the surrounding streets. This has disrupted traffic, and no doubt been less than a boon to local merchants on those streets.

Last week or so, the blockade was more than just a hindrance to average Thai citizens. Today starts the six day funeral for the King's sister, HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana, and the blockade sat right in the middle of the Royal families' route.

The police requested that the PAD remove the blockade to accommodate the Royal family and the funeral route. Anyone who listens to the rhetoric of the PAD would have no doubt expected them to fall all over themselves to remove the barricades. The PAD is the group that professes extreme loyalty to the monarchy, and along with its allies, are not afraid to level les majeste charges against its political opponents.

So what did the PAD say when they were asked to clear the streets for the King and royal family they love so dearly? They said no. The PAD initially told the police to change the funeral route, because they believed that the "risk" to their members outweighed any benefit of removing the barricades.

Keep in mind, there was a young Thai man who was charged with les majeste (acts against the King) for not standing up in a movie when the King's song was played. The PAD was blocking the King's way as he mourned the death of his sister. Truthfully, which is more disrespectful to the King?

There was a strong public outcry against the PAD's decision. It was so strong that the PAD reversed itself and agreed to remove the barricades for two weeks in order to accommodate the royal funeral.

If the PAD had stuck to their ill-conceived refusal, there could have been some severe repercussions. First, they would probably have lost a lot of popular support, even among their followers. This may even have led to pressure to abandon their occupation and protest. Secondly, the military or police may have forcibly removed the barricades. The military leadership has stated on several occasions that they are His Royal Majesty's forces. Its not hard to imagine that the leadership might consider this a form of disrespect to the Royal family.

Fortunately it worked out for the best. Violence was avoided and the stalemate continues.