Asked what the government would do if the two major parties teamed up to campaign against the proposed charter, Sansern said the government had no right to interfere in the public’s decision.

Sansern, who hit back at politicians’ comments about the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO)’s performance, said as government spokesman he had a duty to defend the government against unfair criticism.

Meanwhile, Democrat Party deputy leader Ongart Klampaiboon warned people in power not to resort to intimidation or incite anger over politicians’ different opinions on the charter draft.

“Whenever people in power allow emotion to overshadow their sense, they will not be able to scrutinise any issues with wisdom. In a democratic world, having different opinions is common. It does not lead to division or rivalry. Expressing opinions with reason over the charter is important for Thais who should have the right to chart out the country’s future,” he said.

Suriyasai Katasila, deputy dean of Rangsit University’s College of Social Innovation, expressed concern that the referendum on the charter would serve only as a “symbolic war” of political camps. He said some political groups had rejected the charter draft even before it was written. He added that they might exploit the weaknesses of the current draft to seek political advantage after the referendum.

He called on independent academics who rejected the draft to present alternatives in case it is rejected. He added that those who supported the draft should emphasise its strengths.

“This will help bring about a learning process in Thai society. Many people have not decided [to reject or accept the draft]. There are four months left [before the referendum]. If the NCPO pushes for reform and a crackdown on corruption, the people may accept the draft,” Suriyasai said.