Thailand: Monks asked not to participate in protests

The monks in Thailand have been asked not to join anti-government protests that have erupted in the country for several months against Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and King Maha Vajiralongkorn. 

"The Supreme Sangha Council made resolutions to prohibit monks and novices from involvement in politics, including joining protests and expressing political opinions," said a spokesman for the government's National Office of Buddhism, as quoted by news agency Reuters. 

In Thailand, over 90 per cent of people are Buddhists and religion traditionally plays a big role in the nation's society.

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So far, even though there has not much widespread support from the monks' community, some of them have participated in the demonstrations. 

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"I will continue to join the protests to let them know that this is not right and inconsistent with the voices of most monks," said Chistnupong Praiparee, a monk who has taken part in three protests.

He also demanded reform of the Supreme Sangha Council other than the other demands made by the protesters. 

The massive anti-government protests seek the removal of Prayuth, who has helmed the affairs following the controversial elections last year.

The protesters are also demanding a new constitution and a reduction in the powers of the monarchy, saying it has led to the control of the army in the political system for decades.