Thai nationalist groups attempted to attack protesters planning to demonstrate against Min Aung Hlaing in front of the United Nations office in Bangkok, leading Thai police to intervene and escort the protest leader to safety. The incident occurred at 10:45 AM on April 5th when Vira, the leader of the Bright Future group, arrived at the UN office for a planned protest. As nationalist groups attempted to surround and attack the protest leader, Thai police stepped in to prevent the confrontation and evacuated the protest leader to a secure location.
The protest had been officially permitted and was organized to demonstrate against Min Aung Hlaing. The Thai nationalist groups, known for their hardline stance against Myanmar migrant workers, operate under the banner of protecting Thai territory and national interests. Thailand hosts a diverse range of perspectives on Myanmar’s democratic struggle, with university students, political activists, and intellectuals supporting the cause, while some segments of Thai society, particularly nationalist groups, maintain a hostile attitude toward Myanmar migrants. According to Myanmar residents in Thailand, these nationalist groups represent a portion of Thai society that holds strict views regarding the presence of Myanmar migrants in their country.
Thailand is home to millions of refugees and migrant workers from Myanmar, with the majority opposing the military dictatorship. While anti-Min Aung Hlaing protests are frequently organized in Thailand, they often face threats and intimidation from Thai nationalist groups. However, the Thai government and police forces generally work to protect the security of protesters to the best of their ability. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between different groups in Thai society regarding Myanmar’s political situation and the presence of Myanmar nationals in Thailand, while also demonstrating the Thai authorities’ commitment to maintaining order and protecting the right to peaceful protest within legal boundaries.
