Protesters in air-conditioned comfort at Govt Complex

As the sun rose yesterday, their third day of protest, all structures were systematically set up, with the main stage out front and clear zones for drinking water and food. The path leading from the main road to the complex was lined with shops selling souvenirs and snacks. However, unlike other rally venues, the organisers were not able to set up a kitchen, so they have been distributing ready-to-eat meals. 

Daranee Vejmongkol, a small-business owner from Surat Thani, confirmed that life at the Government Complex was indeed more comfortable. She joined the Suthep Thaugsuban-led rally at Democracy Monument on Sunday before she joined the march to Finance Ministry and then the Government Complex. 

“On my first night at the rally, I had to settle for a wet towel to clean up, but here, at the complex, I can actually take a shower,” she said. 

Kea, a rubber farmer from Surat Thani, said she initially planned to join the rally only for two days, but she changed her mind when she learned that spikes had been laid on the road from the South to Bangkok in a move to block the protesters.

She said that this action made her and other members of the rally to want to keep fighting until they win. 

Besides, she added, the complex was great as they were indoors, in air-conditioned comfort and did not have to worry about rain or sunshine. Sompong Chatpimai, a farmer from Kamphaeng Phet, agreed saying he no longer had to worry about having to sleep on the road. 

Other than basic comforts, the Government Complex also has a little shopping mall in the basement, along with a food centre, beauty shops and restaurants. A hair salon owner said business was booming, while staff at Chester’s Grill also said they had been selling well.