NAKHON RATCHASIMA: Led by Jatupat Boonpattararaksa, also known as Pai Dao Din, about 100 members of the "People Go" group of the People's Movement began a 247-kilometre protest march from Nakhon Ratchasima city to Bangkok on Tuesday.
They are demanding the resignation of the Prayut government and release from detention of four core members of the movement denied bail on charges including lese majeste.
The marchers began moving out about 9am, after gathering on open ground on one side of the Thao Suranaree statue in Muang district.
Intira "Sai" Charoenpura, a popular actress and singer and staunch supporter of the movement, was among the marchers.
About 40 police, both in uniform and plain-clothed, were deployed in the area to ensure peace and order.
Before the start of the march, Mr Jatupat read out a statement outlining their goals - the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-0-cha and his cabinet, the opening of an extraordinary session of parliament to amend the constitution, as proposed by the people, and the reform of the royal institution.
Mr Jatupat said the marcher's motto is Dern Talu Fa Khuen Amnat Prachachon (Walk Through the Sky to Retake People's Power).
He said the marchers planned to walk a total distance of 247.5 kilometres over 15 days, about 16km a day, finishing outside Government House in Bangkok.
Mr Jatupat also said the group would continue with the campaign for the release of four pro-core leaders - Parit "Penguin" Chiwarak, Arnon Nampa, Somyos Prueksakasemsuk and Patiwat Saraiyaem - who are being held on a range of charges including lese majeste under Section 112 of the Criminal Code.
He said refusing them release on bail was unjustifiable. All suspects should be considered innocent until the court rules otherwise.
