UDD members start gathering at Democracy Monument

BANGKOK, June 24 (TNA) - Supporters of the red-shirt movement have started gathering at the Democracy Monument in central here Sunday, marking the 80th anniversary of the 1932 revolution which brought an end to Thailand’s absolute monarchy and ushered in a constitutional monarchy. Many members and supporters of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) travelled from upcountry and arrived at the Democracy Monument in big buses. The rally is scheduled to start at noon and ends at midnight, according to an announcement made earlier by UDD leaders. Traffic policemen have asked motorists to avoid using Ratchadamnoen Avenue and nearby roads as they expect that tens of thousands of UDD supporters would assemble. Several roads near the Monument are expected to be closed for traffic before noon as more UDD supporters have started to arrive at the scene. Up to about six companies of policemen would be deployed from Pan Fah Bridge to Kok Wua intersection to provide security and ensure that no untoward incidents take place during the rally. Police believe the area could be cleared before 3.00 a.m. Monday and traffic returns to normal in the morning if UDD members disperse at midnight. (End)