Abhisit To Address Nation This Afternoon

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POLITICS

Abhisit to address nation this afternoon

By The Nation

PM says he has made enquiries about King's health before seeking Royal Decree on House dissolution

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva is scheduled to make a televised address this afternoon, dispelling doubts about his plan to dissolve the House of Representatives and pave the way for a snap election within 45 to 60 days.

"Don't try to interpret my words," he said yesterday. "I have previously said I would submit a Royal Decree on House dissolution by the first week of May and I still intend to carry out my plan."

Abhisit said his televised address would take place before his departure at 4.25pm to attend the Asean Summit in Jakarta.

He said he had yet to submit the decree on House dissolution for royal endorsement.

With regard to the health of His Majesty the King, he said he had made a "discreet inquiry" with the Royal Palace about the appropriate time to bring the decree to the King's attention.

On Tuesday, the Palace announced that a team of doctors had advised His Majesty to refrain from any royal activities after surgery to drain excess spinal fluid. Abhisit pointed out that on that night, a royal command had been issued approving the appointment of Senate Speaker Teeradej Meepien.

The prime minister said he wanted to make it clear he would not impose any strain on His Majesty and that a slight delay would not disrupt the timing of the poll. According to the Election Commission, should the House be dissolved this week or early next week, the balloting can still be held on June 26.

In a final step to prepare for the poll, the Constitution Court is scheduled on Monday to rule on whether the three organic laws on the revamped electoral system comply with the Constitution.

Judge Jaran Pakdeethanakul ruled out speculation that the court might advance its ruling to today, saying the judicial review on pertinent provisions could not be compromised.

In two recent Cabinet meetings, the government has issued specific instructions on the neutrality of civil servants during the campaigning.

The prime minister and Cabinet members pledged to comply with the guidelines of the caretaker government in order to avoid any campaign violations.

Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said he welcomed the campaigning guidelines, specifically the ban on involving the monarchy in campaign speeches.

Suthep said he had instructed police to remain on maximum alert to prevent any campaign-related violence. He understood all major police units had been mobilised to watch for gunmen and any suspicious activities.

Pheu Thai Party spokesman Prompong Nopparit said he was uncertain about the exact date on which the House would be dissolved.

-- The Nation 2011-05-06