Thailand's anti-government protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban said Tuesday the planned operation to shut down Bangkok on Jan. 13 would only have minor impact on the Thai economy.

Suthep made the remarks to refute an earlier claim by the ruling Pheu Thai Party that the operation could cause more than 200 billion baht ($6.04 billion) in economic losses.

According to Suthep, the Jan. 13 operation will focus on seven major spots in the capital, including the Government Complex.

He reiterated that the airport and public transportation services would not be blocked during the shutdown.

Leading hundreds of protesters, Suthep embarked on a second warm-up rally on Tuesday morning to mobilize people to join the shutdown operation. He received donations from supporters during the march.

Army chief Prayuth Chan-ocha on Tuesday pleaded for no violence during the operation, and said the government would be held accountable if violence occurs.