Govt, military condemn rumour mongers

"I believe these rumour mongers are betraying their own country because they have triggered panic and caused untold damage," Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said yesterday.

Suthep attributed the stock market jitters last week to these very rumour mongers.

Thai citizens are relieved and happy now that Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn confirmed that His Majesty is recovering, he said.

He confirmed that he had issued instructions for intelligence and security authorities to track down the people behind this rumour so legal proceedings can be taken against them.

He also threatened to prosecute, to the full extent of law, if evidence indicated the involvement of certain individuals manipulating the stock market for replenishing their campaign war chest.

PM's Office Minister Satit Wongnongtaey said he suspected the rumours had originated from overseas.

"Media outlets are trying to publicise and update daily statements from the Palace in order to dispel doubts," he said.

Satit added that people spreading these rumours were malicious and might have the ulterior motive of creating political chaos by fabricating stories about His Majesty's health.

Army chief General Anupong Paochinda said he viewed the attempt to spread such rumours about the King as being inappropriate and inauspicious.

"Thai citizens should refrain from making such inauspicious remarks and unite to condemn such gossip," he said.

Anupong also urged the public to heed statements about His Majesty's health that are regularly issued by the Palace instead of paying heed to groundless speculation.