Pochanee na Pomphet, 79, Khunying Pojaman Shinawatra's mother, arrived with other relatives in a Mercedes-Benz to give moral support to Thaksin's fans. She also brought about 50 T-shirts and headbands with the words "Thaksin Su" ("Thaksin, fight on") to distribute.

"I came to see the people. I pity them because the sun is so strong," she said. "I didn't come to give them money, but just to distribute some T-shirts."

Asked about the People's Alliance for Democracy's demand for a royally appointed prime minister, Pochanee said: "If the PAD can ask for democracy, we can too."

Pochanee left after talking with the media and Thaksin supporters for about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile a som tam preparation race was held to relieve tension.

The crowds thinned out yesterday as people began to go home for the pre-election weekend.