TAKING THE HIGH GROUND

Aerobics, teen dancers lose their favourite spot to political protests

SUPOJ WANCHAROEN

The recent PTV rally at the multi-purpose ground in front of City Hall frustrated aerobics and dance lovers, who say the demonstrators are mistakenly using it as a political battleground.

Known as Lan Khon Muang, or the People's Ground, the venue is usually used by people who want to work out after work, and students who practise breakdancing in the evening.

But, they said, this is now under threat with the arrival of rally-goers.

''The ground is being abused by protesters, who built a makeshift stage to attack the government,'' said Pranom Pakeepo, 59, talking about the March 30 rally by backers of PTV television channel.

The group was prohibited from using Sanam Luang, the landmark ground near the Grand Palace, to rally against the government. So it decided to hold the rally at nearby Lan Khon Muang, which is large enough to serve thousands of their supporters.

''But we're losing our area for exercise,'' Ms Pranom said after the outdoor aerobics was cancelled on the day of the PTV demonstration.

She has exercised at Lan Khon Muang since before it was covered with concrete.

The area, with more than three rai of land in total, belongs to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). It was built by former Bangkok governor Bhichit Rattakul and finished a few years ago during the term of his successor, Samak Sundaravej.

Its surface hosts a wide range of activities, from dancing to small trade expositions. But the protesters were going to destroy the atmosphere, said Chalai Wanasilsiriwong, 60. The area was for people to relax, not to argue about politics, she said.

''We would like these political groups to consider the young people who use the ground,'' said 17-year-old student Chartchai Chomphutat, who formed a group practising hip-hop street dance.

Deputy Bangkok governor Vallop Suwandee said Lan Khon Muang is a public place, which means demonstrations could be held there.

However, he said, the BMA would consider whether it would allow certain people to use the ground for political purposes. ''They are required to tell us in advance what topics they will speak about on their stages,'' he said.

Bangkok Post

Monday April 09, 2007