Thai king in spotlight as pro-democracy protests continue

The protesters want the monarchy to be reformed and the powers of 68-year-old King Maha Vajiralongkorn curbed. PHOTO: REUTERS
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

SINGAPORE - Among the core demands of the thousands of pro-democracy protesters who have taken to the streets of Thailand since mid-July is one that was previously unthinkable.

They are appealing for the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and amendments to the Constitution, but it is the most recent demand that is perhaps the most significant: The protesters want the monarchy to be reformed and the powers of 68-year-old King Maha Vajiralongkorn curbed.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.