NEW CHARTER
Everybody can express views on charter draft: Wissanu
THE NATION

BANGKOK: -- PEOPLE who oppose the draft charter can also hold a press conference to air their differences, Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said yesterday.

He made this comment after questions were raised about Suthep Thaugsuban, president of People's Democratic Reform Foundation (PDRF), being allowed to hold a press conference on Tuesday to voice support for the draft charter.

The red-shirt United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) called on the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) to also be allowed to make their stance against the draft charter known to the press.

Wissanu said that since there were different groups in Thai society, each with different views on the draft charter, everybody should be allowed to express their thoughts.

"We're not gagging people as has been alleged," Wissanu said, adding that the government was not forbidding any group or body from expressing their views on the draft charter, which will be decided upon in a national referendum.

However, Wissanu pointed out that shutting down streets or holding political activities was still not allowed as the government was still concerned that it could lead to political mayhem and divisions. He also denied that the government has been urging the National Reform Council (NRC) to reject the draft charter so it can prolong its stay in power.

"No such signal has been sent. The prime minister has always said that everything will follow the roadmap. He cannot say anything else, even if he wants to," he said, adding that the government will have to be prepared no matter what the result.

Meanwhile, NCPO spokesman Colonel Winthai Suvari said the UDD had the right to seek permission to hold a press conference to express their opinions, just like Suthep did. However, the final decision would be in the hands of the NCPO, he said.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/Everybody-can-express-views-on-charter-draft-Wissa-30268025.html


-- The Nation 2015-09-03

Yes. Express views. But no dissenting ones allowed.

"...Everybody can express views on charter draft: Wissanu..."

Except for those who oppose it.

Yes. Express views. But no dissenting ones allowed.

I don't think that's true. I think they can express non approval for the charter. What they can't do is incite joint protest or shit stir.

I am wondering if Suthep sought permission before holding his press conference.

It is about time Mr p put Suthep in his place. ?

I am wondering if Suthep sought permission before holding his press conference.

It is about time Mr p put Suthep in his place. ?

He 'did' already. Stinking him in a temple for a while cos Suthep blabbed about their conspiring for the coup.

"Red-shirt co-leader Natthawut Saikua was warned on Wednesday that he might have his bail revoked if he continues to incite red-shirt supporters to oppose the draft constitution." The Nation

"'ประยุทธ์' ห้ามฝ่ายเห็นต่างออกความเห็น ยกเว้นพูดสนับสนุน"

Prayuth forbids opponents of the charter to express their opinion, but excepts advocates.(own translation)

http://t.co/sTt0eghrOJ