Monk emerges as key figure in Thailand anti-govt movement

To go with Thailand-politics-protest-religion-Buddhism,FOCUS by Amélie BOTTOLLIER-DEPOIS In this picture taken on January 23, 2014, Thai Buddhist monk Luang Pu Buddha Issara speaks to the press during a rally in Bangkok. Since opposition protests broke out in Bangkok three months ago, Luang Pu Buddha Issara has emerged as a key figure in the anti-government movement, organising prayers and addressing the crowds, with rally leader Suthep Thaugsuban sitting at his feet in a sign of respect. AFP PHOTO / PORNCHAI KITTIWONGSAKUL

BANGKOK: A saffron-robed monk takes to the stage in the Thai capital and urges cheering protesters to fight a “black-hearted” government – testing a taboo in the devout kingdom about clerics getting involved in politics.

Since opposition protests broke out in Bangkok three months ago, Luang Pu Buddha Issara has emerged as a key figure in the anti-government movement, organising prayers and addressing the crowds, with rally leader Suthep Thaugsuban sitting at his feet in a sign of respect.