Malicious netizens are fanning unrest, says PM

Malicious netizens are fanning unrest, says PM

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha at a press confernce at Government House (file photo)
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha at a press confernce at Government House (file photo)

Ill-intentioned people are spreading distorted information on social media to trigger unrest, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said on Monday.

People with dubious intentions are out to embellish facts "in a bid to cause disturbances and undermine religion and the monarchy", the premier said.

Gen Prayut warned people to be wary of what they read on the internet.

Gen Prayut's statement came as political tension shows signs of escalating after the March 24 election. Political parties and activists have slammed the Election Commission (EC) for what they said was a flawed vote count and House seat calculation, while political rivals continue to file legal charges against each other.

He said justice should be allowed to run its course to preempt any need to enforce special orders to calm the situation.

Referring to public scepticism about the EC's handling of the poll, Gen Prayut said the regulator has provided explanations.

"Please listen to the EC.... You can petition what you want, but legal queries rest with the court," Gen Prayut said, adding: "Don't make it more chaotic than it is."

A military source said army chief Apirat Kongsompong plans to talk about the current political situation today at the 1st Division, King's Guard, at a ceremony to mark the 112th anniversary of the division.

In response to growing criticism of the EC, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon has argued that the commission has done a good job with the election.

Meanwhile, deputy police chief Srivara Ransibrahmanakul said police are remaining vigilant for possible unrest as demonstrations spring up in many areas.

Pol Gen Srivara said on Monday he was notified of requests to hold gatherings in many locations, including outside of Bangkok.

On Sunday, two such groups held demonstrations to collect signatures calling for the impeachment of the EC at Ratchaprasong intersection and Victory Monument.

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