Thailand lifts public gathering curb after protests

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Bangkok, Oct 22 (IANS) Thailand has lifted a curb on public gatherings, after an emergency decree failed to end mass anti-government protests across the country.

A government statement said it was revoking the measures as the "serious situation" had eased.

The move comes after protesters gave Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha three-days to step down or face more rallies, the BBC reported.

Thailand has now faced months of large democracy protests targeting the premier and the king.

The student-led movement is demanding the resignation of Prayuth, a former general who seized power in a 2014 coup and last year became Prime Minister after a controversial vote.

They want a new election, amendments to the constitution, and an end to the harassment of state critics.

They are also demanding curbs on the king's powers - a call that has led to unprecedented public discussion of an institution shielded from criticism by law.

A government statement published in the official Royal Gazette on Thursday said the emergency measures announced last week would end from noon (0500 GMT).

"It appears that the serious situation that led to the state of emergency declaration has subsided and ended. The circumstances can now be controlled by state officers," the statement said.

The latest government move comes a day after protesters marched to Government House in Bangkok and gave Prayuth a three-day deadline to step down or face more demonstrations.

The Prime Minister has refused to resign. In an earlier televised address on Wednesday he said discussions should be held in parliament.

"I will make the first move to de-escalate this situation," said Prayuth as he announced he was ready to lift the decree.

An extraordinary parliamentary sitting has now been announced for Monday.

--IANS

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