Uneasy calm returns after violent Thai political clashes

SOLDIERS stood guard on street corners today as an uneasy calm returned to Bangkok 24 hours after fierce clashes between anti-government protesters and police left at least two killed and more than 400 injured.

Hundreds of workers swept the streets around Parliament that were littered with burned-out cars and debris from the worst political violence in more than 16 years.

There was no sign of renewed street clashes today between police and urban-based protesters who want sweeping electoral changes to prevent what they say are corrupt politicians exploiting the rural majority to take power. But Thailand's crisis was far from over.

Armed troops were stationed at the Bangkok police headquarters near Parliament.

Today, anti-government protesters continued a six-week sit-in on the grounds of the nearby prime minister's office. The government has been forced to conduct its business at the former international airport.

At least five major confrontations with police left 443 people injured, 66 of whom were hospitalised, medical authorities said. Demonstrators accused police of using grenades, while authorities say they only used tear gas on the crowd.