Protesters in Babgkok demand the resignation of Prime Minister

Thousands of protesters gathered in central Bangkok on 17 October 2008 to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat after the violent clashes of 7 October. Traffic was disrupted as supporters of the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) staged a march to the Silom central business district. There were no reports of violence or arrests. Meanwhile, despite a statement by top army official Gen. Anupong Paochinda on 17 October that the prime minister should resign, Somchai expressed his determination to remain in office. Anupong reiterated his pledge not to stage a coup.