Protesters demand resignation of Thai PM

About 5,000 demonstrators ringed the Thai prime minister's office in Bangkok in a boisterous rally for a second day Friday, calling for his rejection.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjavija refused to resign.

"Whether to resign or not resign is a political matter within the system," he told reporters at his Democrat Party's headquarters. "Right now, the situation remains normal."

Although Abhisit avoided his office on Friday, he said he does not expect the protests to turn violent.

The "red shirts," as the protesters are known, are supporters of deposed former leader Thaksin Shinawatra who was ousted in a 2006 military coup for alleged corruption and abuse of power.

He fled into exile last year and was convicted in absentia of violating a conflict of interest law.

"We will protest until the illegitimate government is gone. We have to stop them from causing more damage to Thai democracy," said a protest leader, Nattawut Sai-kua. "We will stay for as long as we need to get the job done."

The protestsare the latest in Thailand's roller-coaster political climate. Last year the country saw several months of protests by Thaksin opponents.

Friday's protest mixed fiery speeches with a carnival-like atmosphere, including dancing in the streets and songs, as well as free food and beverages.

More protesters were expected to show up Friday evening to hear Thaksin make a televised broadcast from a secret location abroad.

About 30,000 protesters outside Government House cheered loudly Thursday evening when they heard a phone call from Thaksin broadcast to the rally.

"I want to thank you, brothers and sisters, who are here to defend democracy," said Thaksin, who indicated he was calling from Africa.

"Without democracy, there will never be progress."