9-2-2025 (YANGON) A significant protest unfolded in Myanmar’s border town of Myawaddy as thousands of demonstrators rallied against Thailand’s recent decision to suspend vital supplies to Myanmar border regions. The demonstration, which took place on Saturday, saw approximately 3,000 people gathering to demand the closure of key cross-border infrastructure.
The protesters’ primary demands centred on shuttering the two Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridges that connect Myawaddy to Thailand’s Mae Sot district. Additional demands included closing unofficial border crossings and encouraging local residents to boycott Thai products, marking a significant escalation in cross-border tensions.
This public display of dissent comes in direct response to Thailand’s Wednesday directive to cut off electricity, internet connectivity, and fuel supplies to Myanmar’s border regions. Thai authorities implemented these measures as part of their strategic effort to combat the growing menace of call-centre fraud operations, which have become a significant international security concern.
The demonstration began early Saturday morning at the First Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge before proceeding to the Second Bridge. Throughout the peaceful protest, participants delivered speeches highlighting the impact of the supply cuts on local communities and urged local officials to engage in diplomatic dialogue with their Thai counterparts.
Thai security forces, led by Tak Governor Chucheep Pongchai, maintained vigilant observation of the proceedings from their side of the Mei River. The Ratchamanu Taskforce and provincial police were also deployed to monitor the situation.
However, questions have emerged about the protest’s origins. Former Nation Group journalist Onravee Tangmeesang suggested via social media that the demonstration might have been orchestrated by supporters of Myanmar’s military leader, Min Aung Hlaing. Tangmeesang noted that the protest’s singular focus on fuel supplies, rather than addressing all cut services, raised questions about its spontaneity.
The affected regions include not only Myawaddy but also Tachileik and Phaya Thonsu townships along the Myanmar border, highlighting the widespread impact of Thailand’s decision.
