Thais defy military regime to mark revolutionary anniversary

Hundreds of people defied a ban on political demonstrations issued by the current military regime to mark the 42nd anniversary of a key uprising against a military dictatorship.

The Oct. 14, 1973, uprising that overthrew the "terrible trio" of military dictators is widely celebrated in Thailand as a key step on the road to democracy.

Ironically, this year's event took place under a fresh military regime, which seized power from an elected government last year, as politically inspired street violence escalated.

Current rules forbid political gatherings of more than five people, putting those marking the 1973 anniversary at risk. In addition, many of the Thai language banners and signs carried by the members of the crowd protested military rule.

The current regime under control of retired army general Prayut Chan-o-cha has said it plans to stay in power until 2017, in order to write and enact a new type of constitution that will restrict democratic rule by design.

The Oct. 13 protest was centered at two areas in Bangkok. The first was the city's Democracy Monument, where the 1973 uprising took place.

The death toll caused by the military attempting to shoot its way out of the crisis is unknown, but there are hundreds of names on a "martyr's wall" erected several years ago - where the second leg of the demonstration took place.

The 1973 uprising ended the rule of "the three tyrants" - Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn, his son Narong and General Prapas Charusthian. The popular victory ushered in the first civilian governments and free elections ever held in Thailand. The country was under an absolute monarchy until 1932, followed by decades of battling military and police factions, all of them dictators.

The daring protest also featured a seminar - likewise illegal - featuring pro-democracy speakers from the 1970s era and present day.

There was heavy criticism of the current effort to draft a constitution which will kick in after the military allows elections, not expected until at least mid-2017.

It appears it will allow for an unelected prime minister and a completely appointed senate. Both proposals have already been widely criticized, and more political disruption is likely.