Thailand's PM leaves cardboard cut-out for press conference and tells journalists to ask it questions instead

Gesture adds to a 'long list of his bizarre and bullying reactions to reporters,' says Human Rights Watch

Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha employed an unusual tactic to dodge journalists’ questions – bringing out a cardboard cut-out of himself and telling reporters to quiz it instead.

Reporters were left bemused as the leader, who is known for his puzzling sense of humour, turned on his heel and walked away.

“If you want to ask any questions on politics or conflict, ask this guy”, he told them after planting the replica down in his place.

Human Rights Watch criticised the leader for his ”contempt of media criticism and scrutiny”.

The gesture adds to a “long list of his bizarre and bullying reactions to reporters,” said Sunai Phasuk, the organisation’s senior Thailand researcher.

It is not the first time the general, who seized power in 2014, has grabbed media attention for his actions towards the press.

In the past he threw a banana peel at a journalist and once fondled a sound technician’s ear.

He has also jokingly warned that he had the power to execute journalists who criticised his government.

The cardboard cut-out was one of 17 life-sized likenesses of the leader, which have been set up around the government buildings ahead of Children’s Day on Saturday.

As part of the annual event, children are invited to explore the military barracks and pose with weapons and tanks. They are also allowed to sit at the Prime Minister’s desk at Government House.

Mr Chan-ocha and his government took control of Thailand in 2014 following a bloodless military coup. The country is yet to restore democracy.

While the leader initially received public support for his role in ending a period of violent street politics, criticism has grown over a lack of transparency and certain repressive policies.

His government announced that elections will take place in November, but they have made similar promises in the past before delaying the vote.

Additional reporting by agencies