Here we go again...

On both sides of Rajdamnern Avenue, angry voices blare from speakers hoisted onto the back of pickup trucks, mobilizing protesters. The area is teeming with policemen, brightly-colored banners, and yellow-clad PAD supporters, among other protest groups.

At 1pm, the PAD demonstration moves from Makkhawan Bridge to the Government House. It's not clear whether they plan for a "seige" of the building, as this morning's headlines proclaim. Being in the midst of the activity, it's obvious the political impasse approaches its boiling point, with no indication how the afternoon's event will turn out. The papers are labeling it a "showdown" and "D-Day."

Are we headed for street clashes and tear gas? A larger uprising? Another coup? Not sure. One thing is certain: prolonged violence will trigger military intervention, bringing tanks back on Bangkok streets. And it will certainly pull an already deeply-polarized society further apart.

It's like 2006 all over again.

Vendors, civil servants, and students are noticeably missing from the chaotic scene. Schools and government offices have announced their closure yesterday in anticipation of PAD's mobile rally. Banks and businesses in the area have also closed for the day, metal grills drawn tightly over their doors.

Waiting to see what happens. Thirty minutes to go.