Mass demonstrations break out in Thailand over PM Shinawatra’s motion in parliament

Parliament will vote Thursday on a motion that aims to oust Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Anti-government protestors have gathered in mass demonstrations, and are occupying the finance ministry building. Thai police issued an arrest warrant for one protestor, despite Yingluck’s promise that police would “absolutely not use violence” to control the crowds.

The protestors are demanding that the Prime Minister be deposed, as they claim she is following too closely to the demands of her brother Thaskin, the former leader who was overthrown in 2006.

“The accusations against me are too severe and unjust,” Yingluck said on Tuesday. “What has been going on now is affecting people’s livelihoods and orderliness, as well as disrupting services at government offices. Therefore it is necessary for the government to enforce the law.”

Tension is even higher now that these demonstrations have sparked controversy. On Sunday, 40,000 people gathered in a stadium in Bangkok to show their support for the Prime Minister. The opposing side wants a completely new administration to replace the current government.