Former protest leader poised for potential return to the streets
PUBLISHED : 1 Oct 2024 at 21:07
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has urged Sondhi Limthongkul to reconsider his plans for a mass anti-government rally next year.
Ms. Paetongtarn suggested that Sondhi, a leading figure in the former People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), address his concerns with the government prior to any protest actions.
“I’ve only been in office for a month. Is he truly ready to oust me already?” she questioned.
The former media mogul articulated his intent to lead a substantial protest against the government during a recent broadcast.
The PAD was established in 2005 and orchestrated significant demonstrations against Thaksin Shinawatra, Ms. Paetongtarn’s father, blaming him for corruption and undermining monarchy. Thaksin’s administration was ousted by a military coup a year later.
In 2007, when Thaksin-related parties regained power, Sondhi again spearheaded protests. Notably, in late 2008, the PAD staged a 10-day blockade of Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports, resulting in substantial economic losses. The movement was disbanded in 2013.
In 2009, Sondhi survived an assassination attempt, resulting in severe head injuries that required emergency surgery. No perpetrators were ever brought to justice, despite speculation about possible military or police involvement.
In 2016, a 20-year prison sentence was upheld against Sondhi for falsifying documents to obtain a 1-billion baht loan. He was released on a royal pardon in September 2019.
As he approaches his 77th birthday, Sondhi has stated that he will evaluate the government’s actions through early next year, looking for any ethical breaches that could trigger protests.
