As Thailand experiences a political turmoil, the streets in Bangkok have witness mass protest from the democratic-seeking citizens and opposition. The peaceful protests have gathered much pace and last week's numbers stood close to 100,000 demonstrators. Many wore yellow, as a symbol against the interim government, respect for His Majesty the King, and democracy.
So on Sunday, I took the Metro to see mumsy for a spot of lunch and catch up. As I got down to head into The Emporium, a whole bunch of people were shouting "Thaksin Get Out!" at the entrance leading to the complex. Security were standing guard to prevent them from entering its premises and as I made my way thru the crowd, said personnel stopped me thinking I was a protester myself. I then realized I was wearing a YELLOW Polo shirt!
They turned me away even when I flashed them a privileged card as a member of the complex rather than a protester, but was still denied entry. I was absolutely furious. It wasn't really directed towards the security team, but to the protesters for making shoppers and patrons lives difficult. I am for democracy, but go stage your protests elsewhere, people are trying to have a leisurely weekend without any tension or drama.
Not wanting to be lynched by the mob, I kept quiet but told the complex's staff to take care of its patrons from the demonstrators. The main entrance was heavily guarded by police personnels, denying entry to protesters. Finally I was able to enter its premises after some reasoning with the authorities. What a Sunday! At least catching up with mum over lunch and tea was very satisfying indeedy. Been a long time since we both had time for each other.
However, on Wednesday around the same number of them will protest around my office and thank god I'm off to Malaysia early in the morning. I pity the upmarket shopping mall Siam Paragon, they are going to have huge throngs of protesters walking in and out of their establishment. Not exactly a comfort for shoppers locally and foreign.
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