CCTV9英语新闻：泰国反政府示威者街头迎新年

Thousands of anti-government protesters in Thailand’s capital Bangkok have held a new year's demonstration on the streets, while others have prayed in temples for a peaceful 2014.

The protesters have vowed to disrupt a February 2nd election called by embattled Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. They have threatened to shut down the city after the new year, with plans to block roads in up to 20 places.

The protest comes as other Thais gather in temples around the country to conduct Buddhist blessings to welcome a prosperous and peaceful new year. The crisis started in late November. The protesters want to topple Yingluck, who they see as a puppet of her self-exiled brother and former premier, Thaksin Shinawatra. At least eight people have been killed in sporadic violence.