Deputy Prime Minister Songsak views Sonthi's protest as a right but says it should not affect others. He points out that nowadays people express themselves more through social media. He reveals that the Prime Minister is not worried about these matters and has asked officials to manage situations when people gather to protest.
At 13:30 on 10 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Deputy Prime Minister Songsak Thongsri spoke at the Government House regarding Sonthi Limthongkul, former leader of the People's Alliance for Democracy, leading a crowd to the Israeli Embassy in Thailand. He personally sees this as a normal occurrence of people expressing differing opinions from the government within legal protections. However, he emphasized that such rights should not infringe on others. He advised not to worry excessively but requested that exercising these rights must not interfere with others' lawful livelihoods; if protests disrupt honest workers, they are inappropriate.
When asked if the government was concerned about this movement, Songsak said the Prime Minister is not worried at all. The Prime Minister has assigned him to oversee gatherings and ensure good order. If citizens have concerns or submit petitions, Songsak is tasked to receive them, build understanding, communicate, and allow people to express views differing from the government. He noted that differing opinions are not harmful and can be reconciled. Although people may think differently, their hopes likely align in benefiting the country despite varied approaches.
Regarding whether this protest was incited, Songsak said that communication among citizens has changed. People now tend to use social media more than street protests. He believes many may avoid protesting publicly to not infringe on others’ rights, instead opting to express themselves via social platforms or other non-protest methods.
Asked if the Prime Minister's Cabinet had ordered no protests around Government House and whether Sonthi might be invited for talks, Songsak said he would consider this information first. He noted that cooperation is already sought from various groups protesting; everyone understands the rules. There is a designated area for leaders to gather legally since protests within a 50-meter radius around Government House require cooperation.
Asked if Sonthi's continual criticism of the government had hidden motives, Songsak responded that, as he observes media, those aligned with the government get little coverage or attention. Meanwhile, those expressing opposing views gain more interest and follow-up. Whether people believe it or not, he cannot say. Even he skims positive news but promptly reviews criticisms to see if public understanding aligns and to address issues quickly, which benefits the government. Ultimately, it is Sonthi's right to protest and demonstrate.
