Some schools and universities closed, amid a call for a general strike on the ninth day of demonstrations².

 

Over the weekend, protesters attempted to storm the prime minister's office, Government House.

 

Four people have died in Thailand's worst political turmoil³（政治动乱） since the 2010 rallies that ended in violence.

 

The protesters, who want Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to step down, had declared Sunday the decisive "V-Day" of what they termed a "people's coup⁴".

 

However, despite clashing with security forces, they failed to seize more government buildings or unseat Ms Yingluck.

 

On Monday, some protesters returned to barricades⁵ outside official buildings in the capital, Bangkok. 

 

Correspondents say that demonstrator numbers appear lower than before. A hard core of protesters are still pushing at police barricades but seem to be unable to break through, they add.

 

Skirmishes have broken out, with reports of stones and homemade explosives being thrown by protesters, and tear gas and rubber bullets being used by police.

 

Several schools and universities have closed, citing security concerns. AP news agency reported that 60 schools in Bangkok, as well as the main UN office, were shut.

 

In a televised appeal, Ms Yingluck's deputy, Surapong Tovichakchaikul, said the government would like to "lead Thailand back to peace soon".

 

The government would "exercise utmost patience and adhere to nonviolent principles," he added.

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