New Thai army chief: Chance of coup-making is zero

Thailand's new army chief has made the expected traditional pledge to defend country, the Buddhist religion, the monarchy and the people, but seemed to take a softer line than his predecessor towards dissenting political voices.

Gen. Narongpan Jittkaewtae took up his new post on October 1 as part of the annual military reshuffle, and as the government faces a challenge from mass protests whose criticism extends to unprecedented calls for reforms to the revered institution of the monarchy.

The position of army commander carries enormous  political influence, since the military has staged a dozen successful takeovers since Thailand became a constitutional monarchy in 1932.

The 57-year-old general hedged when asked about the possibility that there could be another military coup.

"The chance of coup-making is zero, based on the fact no groups create a situation or a violent conflict that cause suffering" said the general at his first press conference on Tuesday.

Narongpan's predecessor, Gen. Apirat Kongsompong, was an outspoken monarchist who once indirectly but harshly criticised the mostly young protest leaders, telling an audience of military cadets that "COVID-19 can be cured ... but the disease that cannot be cured is the hatred of the nation".

He was appointed to a senior position at the royal palace after his retirement.

Narongpan did not directly criticise the protesters for their beliefs, instead warning of consequences if they violated the law.

Thailand has a lese majeste law that makes defaming the monarchy punishable by three to 15 years in prison, though none of the current protest leaders have yet been formally charged with the offense.

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