Network coordinator Chotisak Onsoong argued the junta would do these things if it were "sincere about restoring the democratic rule of law".

"We will give them a chance to redeem themselves if they declare an election," he said.

He was reacting to a Tuesday statement by National Security Council deputy secretary-general General Saprang Kalayanamitr that the junta loved democracy "as much as any democracy-loving politician".

The network is behind a planned anti-coup protest slated for Sanam Luang on Sunday.

It promised the demonstration would be peaceful and maintain the principle of non-violent struggle.

Chotisak demanded police and soldiers ensure there were no clashes with protesters allegedly mobilised and funded by politicians loyal to deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Nevertheless, he said, these demonstrators had the right to express their opinions.

"I think they have the right to hire [protesters] just like people are hired to attend some sports festivals. But, it's another matter if you wonder if they are legitimate or not. It'll definitely have an impact on their legitimacy."

Chotisak said civil society around the world should protest the coup mentality. There was a military takeover in Fiji this week.

The network is seeking donations to pay for public-address equipment for the Sunday demonstration and future protests. It limits individual contributions to Bt3,000.

In a related development, the National Human Rights Commission called on the junta and the government to respect the right to peaceful assembly.

Pravit Rojanaphruk

The Nation