Strife-free thus far

The PAD demonstration at Government House remains peaceful. PM Samak Sundaravej has yet to make a direct response to its actions.

"I'll explain everything about the PAD tomorrow on 'Sonthana Prasasamak', ['Speaking Samak Style']," is all he has said on the events of yesterday and Friday night. 'Sonthana Prasasamak' is the PM's television show.

A staffer says he won't quit. PM's Office deputy spokesman Natthawut Saikua denies Samak is considering this. "I don't believe resigning is in his head."

"The PM will go to work at Government House as usual," police chief Patcharawas Wongsuwan reveals. He met with Samak at the Police Hospital, where the PM was visiting officers injured on Friday during tussles with PAD demonstrators.

He adds that the police are considering the best way to get the PM to his office.

Meanwhile, the protest continues. Yesterday there were fewer than the estimated 25,000 of Friday night, but numbers started to swell again in the evening, a trend seen when the rally was sited at Makkhawan Bridge.

Cordial atmosphere

The atmosphere is relaxed, and demonstrators were observed handing out snacks and water and chatting to patrolling police.

Police say they are making sure no protesters enter the building proper. The PAD leadership promises that won't be attempted.

Phitsanulok and Rama V roads are blocked, and this is having a spillover effect on traffic nearby.

"We're monitoring the situation and doing our best to lessen the effect on traffic," says city Governor Apirak Kosayodhin. He may be forced to close 10 nearby schools next week.

Pledge of peace

PAD leader Chamlong Srimuang cannot say how long the demonstration will go on. "We insist we are allowed to protest in a peaceful manner. If there's any violence it'll be from the government, not us."

Interior Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung says provincial governors will not stop PAD supporters travelling to Bangkok, which would arouse passions.

"But we will step up police checks to stop drug traffickers using the chaos as an opportunity to bring supplies into the capital," he adds.

In Nakhon Ratchasima and Chiang Mai, local people opposed to the PAD demonstrated, using red as their colour.