August 27, 2008
Bangkok - The People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) demonstrators yesterday stayed overnight at the Government House, making it look like a national celebration rather than a political rally.
The protesters posed for pictures, picnicking, chatting and singing during the day.
They camped at the Government House and other key ministries, defying the police and the government to suppress them.
Carrying umbrellas and wearing hats to shelter from the blazing sun, the demonstrators waved the national flags almost everywhere.
The relaxing atmosphere was also supported by food stalls selling various stuff from iced tea to omelettes.
Anantasak Anantawattana, 50, a former construction contractor, told AFP: "I came early morning from my house in Nonthaburi. I brought my own chair, packed my own food. I always join the rally run by PAD."
He said he did not fear a clampdown by the police despite a deadline for the protesters to leave.
"I don't fear clashes with police, because I know Samak dares not do that, he can only talk," he said.
Another protester, a former insurance saleswoman, told AFP she was prepared for the long haul, travelling into the capital from her home town with sticky rice and grilled pork.
PAD has staged the rally since May 25.
