World Cup 2014: Thailand’s junta offers free TV matches

The Thai ruling junta has ordered TV regulators to ensure that soccer fans will not have to pay to watch any matches at the World Cup 2014.

The military said it was part of its “happiness campaign”, which has seen a number of policy gimmicks, such as free haircuts and concerts.

Thailand’s football match with elephants representing World Cup nations

Meanwhile, an anti-coup protest leader has been charged with incitement and could face 14 years in jail.

The junta overthrew Yingluck Shinawatra’s government last month promising to restore order.

Bangkok and some other parts of Thailand have been under curfew ever since.

The military has since cracked down on dissent, detaining hundreds of potential opponents and releasing them with warnings about their future behavior.