DHAKA: Former Thai prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has been formally charged with murder in connection with a crackdown on demonstrators in 2010.

More than 90 people died in clashes during the 2010 protests.

Abhisit, who leads the opposition Democrat Party, denied the charges and was granted bail, reports the BBC.

The indictment came as protests against current prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra continued, and protesters briefly entered Government House.

Protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban, who was Abhisit’s deputy in 2010, also faces charges but has asked the court to postpone his hearing.

Abhisit and Suthep were in power when thousands of supporters of ousted former leader Thaksin Shinawatra occupied parts of Bangkok.

They authorised the army to clear the protesters.

The charges relate to the shooting deaths of a 43-year-old taxi driver and a 14-year-old during the crackdown.

BDST: 1932 HRS, DEC 12, 2013
Edited by Robab Rosan, Current Affairs Editor