The Supreme Court’s Criminal Division on Political Office Holders is scheduled on August 25 to read a verdict for Yingluck, who has been accused of negligence for allegedly failing to prevent corruption in the rice-pledging scheme commissioned by her government.

Huge crowds of supporters are expected to show up to give moral support to the former PM.

Prayut said all gatherings to support Yingluck would be allowed but her supporters should not violate laws, express contempt of court, create chaos, violate others’ rights or cause traffic congestion.

“I don’t bar their movements. I know there are people who love [Yingluck]. If they want to go [to the court], then go, but don’t go because you have been hired,” he said.

He added that he would order security officials to ask Yingluck’s supporters whether they knew why they were attending the event and whether they travelled on their own or were mobilised by a larger group.

Yingluck also has the right to go where she chooses and express herself on social media, he said.