Wissanu hints at delay to next government

Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam, seen here at a political science ceremony at Ramkhamhaeng University, broke the bad news about a long delay after next year's elections and the formation of an actual goverment. (File photo by Post Today)

A general election is on course to take place next year but unforeseen factors could delay the political roadmap, Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said Wednesday.

Speaking during a special lecture, Mr Wissanu said the country would undergo major changes next year including the enforcement of the new charter which would initiate the election process.

He said the junta's roadmap to an elected government was created tentatively based on possible scenarios, so it could be affected by certain factors including new organic laws being drafted by the Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC).

Under the roadmap, a general election will take place within 150 days after all four organic laws necessary for holding a general election are completed.

"[Based on current circumstances] I'd say the election will take place next year, but we shouldn't go as far as saying that we will have a new government in the same year.

"It will take two months for the official [poll] results to be finalised and announced. A new system is to be adopted in the next election and we will use a single ballot [for both the party list and constituency systems].

"So these are new factors and the political party that wins the most votes may not form the government. It's hard to say when the House will convene to select a prime minister," he said.

Mr Wissanu also said a proposed 20-year strategic plan for national administration is close to being completed but noted the plan can be revised by future governments.

Meanwhile, the CDC promised to unveil on Thursday a draft organic law on political parties.

CDC chairman Meechai Ruchupan said the bill contains 124 sections including steps to revamp political party membership.

CDC member Thienchai Na Nakorn said the draft will be posted on the CDC's website for the public, National Legislative Assembly (NLA) members and the National Reform Steering Assembly to study.

They could send their suggestions to the CDC for consideration before the draft is forwarded to the NLA, he said.