Cornered—The Two Governments That People Will Never Forget

Thailand's struggle for democracy in May has many tragic chapters, including the May 1992 uprising known as 'Pheung Thamin' (Black May) and May 2010 called '99 Corpses'—both recorded as dark moments in history marked by massive loss of life and blood spilled on the streets. The authorities and governments responsible for these two events will be remembered by the people forever, unforgettably.

The 1992 incident stemmed from a military coup that toppled Prime Minister Chatichai Choonhavan's government in February 1991. The coup leader then became Prime Minister himself, breaking his promise not to do so. This sparked massive protests against the transfer of power, leading to a brutal crackdown on May 17, 1992, that killed over 40 people. General Suchinda Kraprayoon resigned and granted himself amnesty.

Following May 1992's bloodshed, authorities made reforms, including investigating the violence, dismissing some military officers, amending the constitution to require the PM be elected from parliament, and establishing riot police with shields, batons, and tear gas instead of deploying armed soldiers.

Eighteen years later, on May 10-19, 2010, the military again dispersed red-shirt protesters, this time claiming they included terrorists and using live ammunition. The crackdown killed 99 people—worse than even the 1976 Thammasat massacre.

The red-shirts were protesting Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva's government, which they viewed as illegitimate, having come to power through a military coup and negotiated deal rather than winning elections. They demanded parliament dissolve and new elections be held.

Whether May 1992 or May 2010, both saw bloody massacres. The people will never forget the authorities responsible for these tragedies and will demand accountability forever.