Meechai Ruchupan, chief author of the draft constitution, warns of chaos and disarray if the country votes against the draft charter in the scheduled Aug 7 referendum. "I am seriously concerned that military orders and the act restrict expression and access to information about the draft constitution," Mr Kaye said. Mr Meechai made the comment before Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva is due to announce his personal stance on the draft charter today. He said since June this year, at least 86 people have been investigated or charged under the government clampdown on dissenting voices ahead of the referendum vote. Mr Meechai dismissed a rumour that efforts are being made to have the draft charter shot down on Aug 7 so that Gen Prayut can prolong his grip on power.

Source: Bangkok Post July 26, 2016 23:15 UTC