Thai Election Commission urges government to postpone February 2 general election

BANGKOK, 11 January 2014 (NNT) – The Election Commission reached a a unanimous decision on Friday to propose that the government issue a new bill to reschedule the general election.

Election Commissioner Somchai Sisutthiyakon revealed the EC had proposed the government first consult with other political parties, then proceed to issue a new decree for a general election. He said the EC had 6 major reasons for the proposal. In addition, 28 constituencies in 8 provinces did not have any candidate. This means that even if the general election were held, there would be fewer than the required 95% of MPs required by law. Furthermore, there were 22 constituencies with only 1 running candidate; if these candidates fail to garner at least 20% of all eligible votes in his/her constituency, re-elections would have to be held.

Read more: NNT