BangkokPost.com

A top Democrat official on Friday showed the media what he claimed was proof of allegations by party officials of a conspiracy against Privy Council president Prem Tinsulanonda.

The Democrats' deputy secretary-general Thepthai Sae-napong held a news conference where he showed the media a book and a series of anonymous leaflets which he said proved the allegations of a conspiracy made by ex-prime minister and senior party adviser Chuan Leekpai.

Mr Thepthai showed the reporters his copy of an anonymous a book entitled Kon Kruawd Nai Rong Phra Bath in Thai, which in English means A Pebble in His Majesty's Shoe. The book is reportedly available in the Northeast and also on the pro-Thaksin Shinawatra website Hi-Thaksin.net.

The book title refers to Gen Prem as a constant irritation to the King, and contains messages attacking Gen Prem, along with mocking cartoons. No author is given.

Mr Thepthai said the book proves allegations made earlier this week by chief party adviser Chuan Leekpai that there is a movement or conspiracy trying to create conflict within the country.

The book is just part of the tools used to attack Gen Prem, as there are anonymous leaflets as well, he said.

"Our MPs receive these documents every three days," he said. "Our party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva, Mr Chuan and party secretary-general Suthep Thuagsuban also receive similar documents attacking Gen Prem." The leaflets typically have what appears to be pubic hair attached.

He called on the government to take legal action against those who are involved in publishing of the book for defamation.

The Democrat press conference came after People Power party, Interior Minister Chalerm Yubamrung and Prime Minister's Office Minister Jakrapob Penkair challenged Mr Chuan to back up his claim.