Delivering his keynote speech at the annual conference hosted by the National Economic and Social Development Board, Prayut said on Monday that while the government had done many things for the country, Thai academics still criticised the country from abroad.

He apparently referred to academics who live overseas in political asylum and organised public forums criticising the junta-backed government for eroding democracy and violating human rights.

He did not reveal their names but the government previously singled out specific prominent activists.

Prayut said his government had been trying to move Thailand forwards by supporting every sector of society, including small and medium-sized enterprises and the poor.

He also criticised non-government organisations and the local media, saying that they should not oppose every government measure.

He dismissed the criticism that his government is helping the rich more than the poor.