BANGKOK 

Thailand's junta-leader-cum-prime minister threatened Wednesday to do away with journalists who “cause division” and fail to toe the official line.

“We will probably just execute them,” stated General Prayut Chan-ocha when asked how journalists considered too critical should be treated.

Chan-ocha's comments - at a military airport prior to a departure to Brunei - were the latest in a series seen to challenge the work of reporters in the Kingdom.

“The media divide society," he said in a report published by Khaosod online. "From now on, I will keep my eyes on all media agencies and, if necessary, I will have the National Peace and Order Council [the junta's official name] investigate them."

He then added - without a trace of a smile - the possibility of executions.

The general has routinely shown disdain towards the press.

Earlier this month, he said he wanted “to punch the face” of a journalist who asked him about junta progress since the May 22 coup, and last year he threw a half-eaten banana at a reporter during a press event.

Outside of his roles as junta-leader and premier, Chan-ocha also hosts his own hour-long TV program.

Broadcast every Friday evening, “Bring back happiness to Thai people” showcases the military general discussing a variety of topics in a fatherly tone - from the price of vegetables to international relations. 

But even the viewing public has not escaped his disdain.

He recently lashed out at those "addicted" to soap operas, saying they should instead be watching his show.

Wednesday's threat was not the first time Chan-ocha has had a go at media.

On Friday, the premier used foul-language in referring to specific reporters from the Matichon newspaper - considered the Kingdom's most highbrow.

“Where is that damned reporter from Matichon group?" he asked, and then quickly ordered the reporter to "Write your news well!"

"Don’t write news that supports the other side too much,” he added, and then accused the overthrown government’s ministry of Interior of financially supporting the newspaper for political benefit.