The protest rallies against the Amnesty Bill are still continuing despite the governments agreement on not to reaffirm the bill if rejected by the Senate. Protestors from four groups who gathered on Silom Road, Asoke Intersection, Ratchadapisek and Saphan Khwai and Aree areas, have arrived at Democracy Monument rally site at 3.30pm to continue their rally. Suthep Thaugsuban and five other Democrat MPs announced Monday that they would resign to lead protest against the government. In order to resolve the political conflict over the Amnesty Bill the coalition whips have proposed a joint meeting with the Senate.
The International Court of Justice has also started reading its verdict on the Preah Vihear Temple dispute at 4 pm Thailand's time. The court began reading the verdict referring to the previous judgement, maps, the operative clause of the 1962 judgement and the Thai cabinet resolution. Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra held a meeting with the military top brass and official from Foreign Ministry at the Government House. The meeting was held to make preparations for International Court of Justice's verdict on Preah Vihear dispute later in the evening. If the verdict goes against Thailand, protests are expected from nationalist groups and could complicate the matter further for the government.
With the many rallies and protests throughout Bangkok, severe traffic disruptions are expected. Though violence has not been reported in any area the situation is fluid also considering the impending verdict on Preah Vihar. In this regard, it is advised that all employees should take extra precautions on their movement in the city especially during their commute home and follow the earlier instructions. Siemens business visitors in the respective Divisions / Functional Departments should also be briefed by the local contact staff on the situation.
The developments will be monitored regularly and any updates shall be communicated accordingly.