Thai youth takes creative defiance into election

BANGKOK — As the No. 59 bus hurtled down Ratchadamnoen Klang road in Bangkok’s Old Town, its passengers diverted their attention from the intense midday heat to a small crowd on the concrete below. About 25 people were marching and chanting, photographers scuttling in front of them.

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The protesters were calling for the release of imprisoned political activists. Some were giving the three-finger salute that has become a symbol of resistance in protests across Asia. A yellow sign displayed the number 112 struck through in red, reflecting demands for the repeal of Section 112 of the Thai criminal code, also known as the lese-majeste law, which bars criticism of Thailand’s monarchy and carries a maximum 15-year prison sentence.