BANGKOK: Thai Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met protesters in Bangkok on Friday (Nov 13), hearing demands for a 10-baht-per-litre (US$0.30) reduction in fuel prices charged by refineries and urgent action against illegal drugs.
Anutin arrived at the foot of Chamai Maruchet Bridge, near Government House, at 9.14pm to listen directly to the demonstrators’ concerns.
Anutin was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Suphajee Suthumpun, and Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa.
Protesters demand lower refinery prices
Protest leader Mano Khrueakaew, known as “Kamnan Mano”, called on the government to reduce refinery-gate fuel prices by 10 baht per litre. Mano led demonstrators from the People’s Revolution Coalition to Protect the Land (NPP).
Mano attributed the protest to severe hardship caused by rising energy and fuel costs, which were increasing the public’s cost of living. He also pressed the government to step up efforts to tackle illegal drugs.
Anutin pledges action where possible
Anutin promised swift action on problems the government could resolve, without committing to the specific fuel-price reduction demanded by the protesters.
Anutin told the demonstrators that he had been kept informed of the NPP’s demands throughout and was ready to listen to every issue raised.
Anutin also urged participants to express their views peacefully and conveyed his concern for people who had travelled to join the gathering. - The Nation/ANN
