UP TO 100,000 Thai demonstrators staged an anti-government protest yesterday, rallying outside the home of the king's top adviser, accusing him of orchestrating a 2006 coup that toppled former premier Thaksin Shinawatra and demanding that the current prime minister resign.
Since the coup, Thailand has had four weak administrations. King Bhumibol Adulyadej is still revered, but protesters dissatisfied with the current PM, a Thaksin rival, targeted his closest adviser, privy councillor Prem Tinsulanonda, 88, breaking
a taboo in Thailand, where the monarchy and its entourage are usually above criticism.
The last rally outside Mr Prem's home, in July 2007 turned into a riot, with more than 200 injured in a brawl with police.
The king, who has occupied the throne for six decades, has historically been the country's sole unifying figure in times of crisis, but as speculation about his succession becomes more urgent, the previously taboo topic of the monarchy's role has become a topic of hot discussion.
Yesterday's protest was the biggest challenge to prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva's four-month-old government.
The protesters say Mr Thaksin was wrongfully ousted, and that Mr Abhisit took power illegitimately and should step aside and call fresh elections. They accuse the country's elite – the military, judiciary and other unelected officials – of interfering in politics.
The demonstrators clapped and cheered as their leaders called for Mr Prem's resignation, as soldiers stood guard inside his compound.
Critics have accused Mr Thaksin and his supporters of being disloyal to the monarch, an accusation the former premier has repeatedly denied.
Mr Abhisit said his government would not step down.
