BANGKOK (AP) — A Thai pro-democracy activist who was attacked and left unconscious on a Bangkok sidewalk says he will refuse an offer of police protection that would require him to stop political activities.

Sirawith Seritiwat, widely known as Ja New, was severely beaten by four assailants near his home on June 28. He received head injuries and a fractured eye socket.

Sirawith, who was attacked twice in June, says he will not allow police to ensure his safety because he believes the government was behind the attacks.

The military seized power in a 2014 coup and has cracked down on dissent. Critics say the junta has failed to fully investigate repeated violence against its opponents.