Bangkok Commemorates 33rd Anniversary of Black May 1992
BANGKOK — A solemn ceremony was held in the heart of Bangkok on Saturday to mark the 33rd anniversary of the Black May tragedy of 1992, a pivotal moment in Thai history when mass protests against a military-led government were met with deadly violence.
At the Suan Santiporn Memorial on Ratchadamnoen Road, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt led the remembrance by laying a wreath and paying tribute to those who lost their lives while peacefully advocating for democracy and justice.
“The bravery of those committed to what is right can bring about real change, even at a personal cost,” Mr. Chadchart said during the ceremony. “Even after 33 years, the spirit of those heroes continues.”
He emphasized the importance of remembering the past, urging society to honor the sacrifices made by building a future grounded in fairness, freedom, and respect for the people’s will.
The ceremony was attended by prominent political figures, including House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut of the People’s Party, and Somkid Chueakong, deputy secretary-general to the Prime Minister’s Office.
Black May refers to the violent military crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators in May 1992 under the regime of Gen Suchinda Kraprayoon, who came to power following a 1991 coup. The suppression led to widespread outrage and eventually forced Gen Suchinda to resign.
Official records list 44 dead, 1,728 injured, and 38 missing during the crackdown, though many believe the true number of casualties was higher. The event remains a powerful reminder of the cost of authoritarian rule and the enduring struggle for democracy in Thailand.
