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Politics
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2007-01-25 07:39:08-05
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September elections likely, says commissioner
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BANGKOK, Jan 25 - Thailand's general election will likely be held on schedule this September on completion of the constitution writing process, according to Election Commission chairman Apichart Sukhagganond, and they are likely to cost less than previous trips to the polls. Mr. Apichart spoke to reporters on the issue after a half-an-hour meeting between the four-member EC and Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont at Government House Thursday afternoon. He disclosed that the EC assured the prime minister that it is prepared to organise the new general election as Gen. Surayud had earlier pledged it would take place this year if the new constitution drafting was completed within 180 days as planned. "As he had earlier confirmed, the prime minister reassured us his confidence that it will take place this year," said Mr. Apichart, adding that "this year" means the 2007 fiscal year which ends September. As for the commission, he said, the EC is ready for the task. The election of provincial election commissioners in some 60 provinces to replace those whose tenure is due to end this month will be completed within two months, or before the end of March. Mr. Apichart said the prime minister and the commissioners also discussed the budget used for organising each general election. He said the EC told the premier that it would try to economise by spending only about Bt1.5-1.6 billion (US$44-47 million) this time compared to 2 billion (almost US$60 million) expended in some previous elections. (TNA)
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