The seminar titled “Can the charter draft by the Constitution Drafting Commission (CDC) bring about reform?” was scheduled for today but the NCPO asked NIDA to cancel it.

Banjerd said he had no idea what the reason was for not allowing the seminar. “But this would bring about a negative image (to the junta),” he said.

He said the seminar aimed to dissect the constitution over politics and human rights and the overall outlook of the whole charter.

CDC spokesman Chartchai na Chiangmai who also works as a Nida lecturer, said he had not seen Nida make one negative comment over the charter draft since it began the drafting process. “Banjerd and Nida helped take part in drafting many charters. I do not believe the institute would present only the negative side of the draft,” he said.

He believed Nida should negotiate with the junta to hold the seminar. “I think the NCPO think the seminar may get out of control or may confuse the public,” he said.