"The country is sacred. Whoever thinks only to take the country's interests into their own possession or for their own groups - will end in their own downfall. Phra Sayam Thewathirat [the guardian spirit] always protects the country and curses those who are evil to suffer for the rest of their lives,'' he said.

Speaking at a seminar at Chulalongkorn Hospital, Prem went on to quote privy councillor Dr Kasem Wattanachai, who had said World War II was caused by a handful of greedy people who were hungry for power and dragged the whole world into war.

"Hitler and a few of his people were greedy and made people fight. Our country also has this type of people,'' said Prem.

The chief advisor to the King made the same address to military cadets recently and after he returned home he got a telephone call from the cadets. "They said that from now on they will believe the country is sacred and that Phra Sayam Thewathirat exists. You can believe or not, but I believe,'' Prem said, referring to what is considered to be the kingdom's guardian deity.

Prem said he had no suggestions or advice for Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont saying that he is a capable man.