August 25, 200719 yr BANGKOK, Aug 24 (TNA) Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej Friday endorsed the country's 18th constitution, five days after the kingdom -- a constitutional monarchy since 1932 -- voted in favour of the newly-drafted charter in the first national referendum to pave the way for the first post-coup national poll scheduled for this December. The charter took effect immediately after it was announced in the Royal Gazette on Friday. The Constitution was approved by about 58 per cent of voters, with about 41 per cent rejecting it. Voters the Northeast and the upper North voted against the charter in the largest numbers. The North and Northeastern regions are considered political strongholds of the now disbanded Thai Rak Thai Party, founded by ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra who was overthrown by military coup last year. Prime Minister Gen. Surayud Chulanont indicated Thursday the date of the next general election will be finalized early next week. The prime minister said earlier he believed the most suitable dates for holding the general election are either December 16 or 23, after celebrations of His Majesty the King's 80th birthday which falls on December 5. The premier said he planned to confer with National Legislative Assembly Speaker Meechai Ruchuphan and the Election Commission chairman on fixing the election date. (TNA)-E001
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