Nakhon Ratchasima: The "We Walk" marchers have petitioned the Nakhon Ratchasima governor for help, including providing accommodation and security for them.
The petitioned was lodged via deputy Nakhon Ratchasima governor Murathathi Rakchatcharoen at the provincial city hall yesterday. It was submitted by five marchers, led by Ekachai Isaratha.
The petition demanded governor Wichian Chantharanothai order district chiefs, kamnans and village headmen to accommodate the marchers, such as providing rest spots and security for their walk after some people tried to disrupt the activity.
Two days ago, the marchers took a rest at a temple in Nakhon Ratchasima's Non Sung district, which was contacted to arrange accommodation for the group for three days.
Mr Ekachai said a deputy district chief allegedly pressured the abbot to provide the group with accommodation for only one night as he was unhappy about their march.
The marcher said the group has complied with the public assembly law and notified the government about their activity.
Earlier, faced with the National Council for Peace and Order's prohibiting gatherings of five people or more, the group petitioned the Administrative Court, asking it to grant an injunction prohibiting police from stopping the march. The injunction was issued on Jan 26.
Mr Murathathi insisted provincial authorities have provided convenience for the group and no pressure has been put on them.
District chiefs, kamnans and village headmen have been ordered to ease the way for the group's march.
The group started marching at Thammasat University's Rangsit campus on Jan 20. They aim to reach the northeastern province of Khon Kaen on Feb 17.
The campaign, mobilised by civic networks and academics under the so-called "People Go Network" group, was held to encourage people to share their views on issues which they view differently from the government such as food security, national resources, community rights, and freedom under the constitution.