Yesterday afternoon and evening usual television programming was interrupted (again) for proclamation 22 of Thailand’s new military government. The proclamation notes that despite the previous proclamation (number 7) banning political assemblies of more than 5 people, there have been political activities undertaken by sub-district administrative organisations, provincial administrative organisations and other local organisations. Local organisations are ordered to cease these activities and not hold political meetings.

The foreign press have latched on to the images of a smiling coup, largely supported by the populace. But there may be more going on here than meets the eye.