Guernsey Press

Plaque symbolising Thai democracy removed in less than a day

The plaque had been installed on Sunday.

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A plaque symbolising Thailand’s transition to democracy has been removed less than 24 hours after it was installed by anti-government demonstrators in a historic royal field.

Weekend demonstrations were the largest this year by protesters who vowed to press on with calls for new elections and reform of the monarchy.

The plaque had been installed at Sanam Luang on Sunday to replace one mysteriously ripped out and stolen three years ago.

Thailand Protests
A pro-democracy student leader negotiates with police officials as they march during a protest in Bangkok on Sunday (Wason Wanichakorn)

Sanam Luang is a designated royal site, which until the last few years was open to all. It is located near the Grand Palace.

Taiwuth Kankaew, the director of the Department of Public Works of Bangkok Metropolitan Authority, responsible for surveying and repairing damages in Sanam Luang, said he had no knowledge who removed the plaque.

Thailand Protests
Police officers wearing face masks stand in line, protecting the area surrounding the Grand Palace during during Sunday’s protest (Wason Wanichakorn/AP)

“At the dawn of Sept. 20, here is where the people proclaim that this country belongs to the people,” read part of the inscription.

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