HK protesters call for city's leader to quit

HONG KONG • More than 1,000 people protested in Hong Kong on New Year's Day yesterday, calling for the city's leader to resign, and to air grievances over issues ranging from expensive construction projects to Internet freedom.

A procession of yellow umbrellas - the symbol of the city's democracy movement - moved through the city's downtown, with protesters carrying signs that read "fight for the freedom of the next generation" and calling for the resignation of officials who "sold out" the city.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Ex-Asean chief vows to run for Thai PM

BANGKOK • Former Asean secretary-general Surin Pitsuwan vowed on the first day of the new year to run for prime minister of Thailand in the next general election.

The former foreign minister and veteran lawmaker confirmed he will take the first step in his planned return to politics by contesting the post of top leader of the Democrat Party, now held by former premier Abhisit Vejjajiva. Mr Surin said that if he won the post, he would certainly run for prime minister under the party's ticket.

XINHUA