A PAD leader who refused to be named said he and other leaders felt uncomfortable with Chamlong’s presence at the rally because he had proved during the “Black May” anti-government protests in 1992 that he preferred to rely on his own judgement instead of consulting others.

Campaign for Popular Democracy chairman Pithaya Wongkul admitted some members of the public and PAD leaders were concerned that Chamlong would try to assert his leadership over the demonstration, which would lead to conflict and violence.

Pithaya said the PAD would meet today to decide on Chamlong’s role, adding that he had already telephoned Chamlong to express his concerns.

Asked if the PAD was worried that Chamlong had earned a negative image during the Black May demonstrations as someone who led people to their deaths, Pithaya said the campaign against Chamlong was politically motivated and should be ignored. The loss of life during May 1992 was caused by the authorities who wanted to disperse the demonstration, he said.

Chamlong said he has no intention of leading the demonstration.
Asked to respond to Chamlong’s latest move to oust him, Thaksin quoted the late Phra Buddhadasa. “That is the way it is,’’ he said.