Jatuporn Prompan, a founder of PTV and former Thai Rak Thai deputy spokesman, accused CNS chairman Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin of failing to understand democracy after the Professional Golf Association of Thailand chose Thaksin as its president.

"If the Council for National Security chairman believes that golfers are mad, then he's [mad] too because golf is the favourite sport of people around the world, not just in Thailand," he said.

On Monday, Sonthi commented that the state might have to get a psychiatrist to help Thaksin and the PGAT members who elected him.

Jatuporn said Thaksin became the association's president through an election, not by seizing power, which Sonthi should concede.

"He should not be overly concerned, otherwise he will get all tense again," Jatuporn said.

Noppadon Pattama, Thaksin's legal adviser, said the PGAT members had the right to choose anyone to be their president. That was the democratic way, so neither the government nor the CNS should criticise or interfere.

The veteran lawyer suggested the junta chief talk to a psychiatrist.

He said Thaksin had already accepted the position to further distance himself from politics, and would do other things related to sport and social matters.

Even though Thaksin was abroad he could communicate with PGAT members via electronic media, Noppadon said. The deposed premier could even return to the country to attend PGAT board meetings, should there be important agenda items.

"He is a Thai so he can return to the country when he wants, however, his return will be guided by the situation in the country."

Kesinee Jaikawang

The Nation