The EC said people must also be mindful of other factors such as orders issued by the National Council for Peace and Order.

The media is free to deliver any coverage so long as it is truthful and neutral, said Thanit Sriprateth, EC deputy secretary-general.

The guidelines follow a public call for the EC to clarify the recently enacted referendum bill, which stipulates strong penalties for wrongdoers of up to 10 years in jail and/or a Bt200,000 fine. Thanit said anyone could file complaints with police over such wrongdoings.

6 Dos

l Base personal comments on study and research of the constitution draft and other relevant elements.

l Comment with good manners

l Comments should be supported by clear information, without distortion of the facts.

l Any citation should be in line with academic principles as a complement to one’s comments.

l Any comment to traditional media must have at least one supporting reason.

l Post information on websites or the electronic media with supporting reasons.

8 Don’ts

l Interviews with false information or aggressive, harsh, rude, seditious, or threatening manners.

l Posting or sharing false information on websites or the electronic media.

l Making or sending a symbol or marking that is aggressive, harsh, rude, seditious, or threatening.

l Organising seminars or discussions without the participation of state agencies, educational institutions, or a legal media body.

l Campaigning in a T-shirt, putting up banners, pinning brooches, flying flags, tying ribbons, or using any marking to express an opinion that could incite people.

l Issuing leaflets or brochures with false, aggressive, harsh, rude, seditious, or threatening messages.

l Reporting news that could lead to incitement or social turmoil.

l Campaigning to influence the public vote, or obstructing voting.