The move followed the recent contempt of court charges levelled against seven student activists.

PerMAS said in its statement, issued on Sunday, that it was concerned with the current political situation, which it warned could lead to interference in the justice system for political gain.

The group insisted on freedom of expression being protected and expressed solidarity with the students activists charged with contempt of court.

The charges came after the students, working under the Network of Students of the Four Regions, in February staged a symbolic demonstration in response to Jatupat Boonpatararaksa, or “Pai Dao Din”, who was charged with lese majeste after sharing online a BBC article deemed insulting to the monarchy.

The seven students had been scheduled to report to a court on Monday.