Thailand Political Round Up, Protesters Leave and Leading Party Disbanded

Following yesterday's court decision delivering a striking blow to Thailand's ruling party, the protestors who took over Bangkok's airports have called off their protest.

At the demonstration this afternoon, after the Constitution Court had debarred the Prime Minster from politics and disbanded the People Power Party, the (Red) leaders had already painted the sign which said that the PPP was now disbanded (see photo)

Earlier this year Thailand was struck by a political crisis that virtually paralyzed the government; the situation came to an end on December 1 when a Thai court removed unpopular Prime Minister Somchai Wongsawat.

Today's court ruling against Thailand's governing coalition throws the country into further turmoil and uncertainty.

There is a danger the decision to ban the prime minister, Somchai Wongsawat, from politics for five years will end up pleasing no one and add to the tensions in an already fractious country.

Two Canadian tourists stranded by Bangkok's airport closures were killed and a Briton seriously injured in a car crash as they rushed to catch a flight out of southern Thailand, police said Tuesday.

Two Canadian men aged 63 and 48 were killed early Monday morning in southern Surat Thani province, as they headed to Phuket international airport, while a British woman was also wounded in the crash.

Both of Bangkok’s main airports – Suvarnabhumi International Airport and Don Muang Domestic Airport – remain closed. Passengers wishing to remain in the capital until they re-open are advised to avoid the terminals and keep in touch with their airline or tour operator, who may also be able to help with accommodation.