BANGKOK, March 18 (TNA) – Frustrated by a 13-year struggle against invasive blackchin tilapia, farmers from 19 provinces dumped two tons of the fish outside Thailand’s Government House, demanding immediate government intervention.
The Aquatic Animal Farmers Network from 19 provinces called for a swift response to their ignored demands, including a formal investigation into the infestation’s origin, a one-year eradication plan, disaster zone declarations, and legal action against those responsible for the ecological damage.
The dramatic protest, which included a ritualistic burning of chili and salt, drew police intervention to clear the immediate area.
Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, a People’s Party MP, accepted the farmers’ petition. Protest leaders suggested they may temporarily disperse, but vowed to regroup if their demands remain unmet.
The demonstration comes amid a growing legal battle surrounding Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF), Thailand’s agribusiness giant. CPF acknowledges importing the fish for research in 2010 but denies responsibility for the subsequent widespread infestation, claiming all fish were destroyed according to regulations. However, a class-action lawsuit, filed by affected fishermen and fish farmers, seeks to hold CPF responsible for the devastating impact on their livelihoods and the ecosystem. -819 (TNA)
