18: politics

The political situation in Thailand is not great at the moment, and we could really use your prayers! While I don't understand everything that is happening (or why), I have been trying to read a lot to gain a better understanding of it... and it's complicated. A pretty accurate article was posted yesterday which overviews the more recent developments, you can read it here.

[Tens of thousands of protesters gather at Democracy and Victory Monument -- source]

Some articles are a little fear-inducing with phrases like "deteriorating fast", "rising tensions", "increased security", "riot police", and "toppling the government". But, as I keep having to remind myself, God is in control of this, too. Being on the ground with all the political energy steaming from the streets, it'd be easy to work up into a frenzy. But despite the news, the hype and the sheer number of Thais wearing red, white and blue and sporting whistles... they are choosing to remain (with only a few small exceptions) non-violent in their protesting.

The good news is, you always know where they are by the noise! When I got off the BTS at Phaya Thai yesterday, they were marching past the BSC. I took the video below from the BTS platform. The BSC is behind the trees.

However, as of yesterday, the protesters have now begun occupying government buildings in an attempt to force the current prime minister step down, and to establish a new government. This has caused them to set up in all of Bangkok what they call ISA: Internal Security Act (think: martial law), to help contain the situation. It's currently in effect until December 31st.

There is no real threat to foreigners, especially if we avoid rally sites and marches (which, we are doing as much as possible). The plan is for these protest/rallies/occupations to be resolved before the King's birthday (Dec. 5th). As exciting as it is to be on the front lines of history, it would be best for the nation for this to be resolved as quickly and diplomatically as possible.

[Marches throughout the streets hold traffic at a stand-still.] 

[Some of the marchers and "whistle-blowers" -- source]

So, how can you pray?

- Pray for safety. Not only for the foreigners, but also for the Thais protesting, and the riot police and officials working in the occupied government buildings.
- Pray for a peaceful resolution and compromise.
- Pray that God would bring stability and justice to this country.
- Pray that the airport will remain open (in 2008 the protestors shut it down) so that we can fly home on December 14th!