Thailand's military government bans protests against the coup.

On May 29, Thailand's military government announced a ban on all protests against the military coup, and deployed a large number of soldiers and police to prevent a planned demonstration on May 30.

Thai soldiers ensure security in Bangkok on May 29. Source: AFP/VNA

Approximately 1,350 soldiers and police officers blocked one of Bangkok's busiest intersections. Trucks carrying troops blocked all roads leading to the Victory Monument. This large-scale deployment of military personnel came a day after hundreds of people gathered at the Victory Monument and clashed with police. Protesters had called for a large-scale march on May 30th.

Protests against the coup in Thailand have been largely small-scale and mostly spontaneous. However, General Somyot Poompanmoung, Deputy National Police Chief, said that even small-scale protests would no longer be permitted.

General Somyot asserted that although these protests were symbolic, they "violated the law" and the military needed to ensure the sanctity of the law. He also warned that if the protesters changed tactics, the military "was ready to respond."

Earlier, about 100 students protested against the military coup at the Thammasat University dormitory in Bangkok. The protest ended peacefully.

Tensions are escalating in Thailand a week after the military seized power, overthrowing the government on the pretext of needing to restore order after seven months of escalating political instability. A curfew remains in effect, albeit shortened to between midnight and 4 a.m.

Responding to the military's statement that elections could not be held at this time, the United States – a long-time ally of Thailand – said there was no reason to delay this crucial vote.

US State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki urged Thailand's military council to facilitate a comprehensive, transparent, and early electoral process.

On the same day, May 29, in a statement, a spokesperson for the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the priority of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) is to ensure normal administrative operations and the full implementation of key policies.

Speaking at a meeting with foreign journalists in Bangkok, the first since the May 22 coup, the ministry spokesperson affirmed that the NCPO will give special priority to promoting social stability and projects related to people's welfare. Expenditures for the next fiscal year, beginning October 1, 2014, will be implemented.

NCPO is also committed to implementing responsible and practical economic policies to promote sustainable economic growth.

Regarding international relations, the NCPO reaffirmed that all diplomatic relations between Thailand and foreign countries remain unchanged from the previous administration. Ongoing negotiations will proceed as planned.

Thailand's international commitments and obligations will also be respected. Thailand will continue its proactive foreign policy, particularly within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the United Nations, and other multilateral forums.

According to Vietnam+