Thai fuel protest convoy heads for Bangkok despite police ban on gatherings until Nov 20

On November 7, a convoy of protesters, led by Mano Khrueakaew, a subdistrict headman from Krabi province, began a journey toward Bangkok to demand a reduction in diesel prices. The protesters aim to reach Government House, the Thai prime minister's office complex, by November 8, requesting a 10 baht (RM1.22) per liter decrease in diesel prices.

Mano's group, the People's Revolution Alliance to Protect the Land, departed from Nakhon Si Thammarat on November 5 and has since traveled through Surat Thani and Chumphon, reaching the Pathomphon intersection by the afternoon of November 7.

Khrueakaew announced that the convoy would stop at Gate 4 of Government House if the government does not meet their request. The protesters plan to remain in Bangkok if their demand is not granted, as they fear the spreading of drug problems throughout the country. Four individuals alerted Khrueakaew about his safety concerns, prompting him to relocate a rally scheduled in Khao Phang to a temple in Prachuap Khiri Khan.

As the convoy moved, residents along the route contributed to the group's travel expenses and shared their discontent with the cost of living, especially the high fuel costs. Prayoon Changjai, who owns a fish pier and operates boats, expressed her frustration with fuel prices, noting that coconuts have remained difficult to sell despite their 30-year price stability.

Bangkok's Metropolitan Police Bureau has banned gatherings within 50 meters of Government House until November 20, citing potential traffic issues and public safety concerns. The ban does not specify road closures. As of the reporting, the exact number of vehicles reaching Bangkok remains uncertain, with the group initially aiming for 1,000 cars and trucks.

The Thai government has not yet commented on the protesters' 10-baht diesel price demand. Currently, state-controlled oil and gas company PTT sells regular diesel at 41.79 baht (RM5.10) and B20 diesel, a blend with 20% biodiesel, at 33.50 baht (RM4.09) per liter, excluding local taxes. Since November 1, the government-run Oil Fuel Fund has subsidized 3.90 baht (RM0.48) per liter for regular diesel and 5.82 baht (RM0.71) for B20.