A summary of my interview in Matichon, in relation to uncertainty surrounding the proposed 2018 general elections.
It should be no surprise if the scheduled 2018 elections are postponed due to the possibility of the Pheu Thai party winning. However, the 2017 Thai constitution will generate 250 appointed senators, which is in the interests of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) and the military. This will reassure the military that they can secure the appointment of the ‘Prime Minister’.
In fact, I believe that the government also wants to hold the general election because it will be a stamp to legitimise their position in power, and are bolstered by the certainty that they can maintain power after the election. As a result, the international community will have fewer objections to their position in power.
The need for being accepted in the international community is key a factor for the NCPO to stick to its election road map.
