Thai protests ease ahead of king's birthday, traditionally a day of unity and calm

Thais were hoping on Wednesday that their king's upcoming birthday could play a crucial role in bringing about an end to the current political crisis.     

King Bhumibhol Adulyadej celebrates his 86th birthday on Thursday, and the day is a traditionally peaceful event for the whole country.     

Many are hoping that a planned televised address for the event may calm unrest after anti-government protests turned violent in the last week, leaving at least four dead and dozens injured.     

Janwadee Jilao, a Bangkok resident, explained that the king has a history of addressing tough political situations.      

"Every time there's been a political incident His Majesty has not ignored it. He comes out and looks after and cares for his people," she said.       

Bhumibol is a constitutional monarch with no formal political role, but he is considered the country's moral authority and a unifying figure.       

Violence on the day of his birth would be a major sign of disrespect.      

"Everyone cares for the king because he's done so much for the country. He would play a major part in having all sides turn back to each other and start talking," said Pooriwat Wipastawat, another Bangkok resident.       

Protests calmed on Tuesday, when Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra ordered police to end their resistance against masked mobs who had begun attacking their positions beside her office compound with homemade rocket launchers and petrol bombs.        

However, protest leaders have vowed to continue their protests after the anticipated calm of Thursday.            


AP