Thailand will hold a general election December 16 or 22 to restore a democratic government following a September coup, junta-installed Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont said today.

 

Authorities will hold a referendum on a new constitution ``by September,'' Surayud said in Bangkok today after meeting with junta leader and army chief Sondhi Boonyarataklin.

 

The government sees ``no need'' to declare a state of emergency in the capital Bangkok at the moment, Surayud said. He hopes to avoid emergency laws and confrontations with protesters who plan to rally against the coup and the temporary government, he said.

 

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=206...A4Mg&refer=asia

Original post Deleted.

 

BKK post initially reported election would be 16 or 23 Setember but they have just amended their copy to:-

 

"The prime minister also said that a general election to choose a new civilian government would be held this year on either Dec 16 or Dec 23 - after a referendum on the constitution, which he said would likely be held on either Sept 16 or Sept 23".