The leader, known as Ja New, or Sirawith Seritiwat, was about to take the stage to speak with the demonstrators when he collapsed. He regained consciousness following treatment, and blamed the weather, telling the crowds: "the weather is so hot, so I fainted. He then went up to the stage and addressed the cheering demonstrators. He however failed to get the green light to move towards Government House. Rangsiman said the protesters would stay put on the road until they were allowed to proceed to Government House.

Source: The Nation Bangkok May 22, 2018 05:48 UTC