Cabinet to discuss EC's proposal on new poll date

[waza]

To postpone the election is the right decision, not only will it save money it would allow the Dems back in.

[rubl]

It can't produce a result which meets necessary quorum in the first round, no, but that will result in further by-elections. They have 180 days to fill the seats. I think they need 490. But of course, Suthep will probably always be able to disrupt those constituencies in the South and make sure seats aren't filled. Only way that I can see the seats being filled is if soldiers are ordered to protect registration and polling stations.

I think it would benefit the government if they could delay the election for two months or so, because there's only so long Suthep can maintain his head of steam in Bangkok. For Feb 2nd these protesters might still be there, fully committed to preventing it from going ahead. April the 2nd though, would be a different prospect. Can Suthep keep people out on the streets for another two or three months? Does he need to?

Personally though, I think the election should go ahead for symbolic purposes, despite the fact that it won't solve any real problems. Also because, as has been pointed out, there's no legal basis for delaying it. And because there's no guarantee that delaying it will solve anything either.

To have an election for 'symbolic' purposed even if it 'really' doesn't solve the current differences seems just a waste of time and money. Better to spent time on discussing reform and what is needed to solve the current problems.

If delaying elections doesn't solve anything, I really doubt having elections will solve anything.

How can reform be discussed if Suthep is unwilling to negotiate? Many people want to vote judging by pre-registration numbers (similar to 2007/2011) so why not allow them? If having an election now doesn't work, it's not clear postponing will either.

If voting doesn't bring anything, why organise them? When it's clear an election now doesn'tr work, it is certainly clear that the only option is postponement.

Following get parties in the mood for real discussions, real 'ready for change' mindset. Till now the caretaking government is just zigzagging along with 'we want talk', 'we want some arrested', 'we want Thaksin', etc., etc. Why would the PDRC negotiate?

DSI summoned 55 PDRC and other groups leaders. To be charged with acts of rebellion, inciting unrest and causing a state of chaos in violation of Sections 113, 114, 116 and 215 of the Criminal Code.

Does that seem like the government is ready to talk?