"PollWatch is moving ahead on preparations for the debate involving embattled Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva and leaders of the People's Alliance for Democracy," organiser Somchai Srisuthiyakorn said.

Somchai said he expected the talks to finalise the format and agenda of the debate, scheduled for Friday.

Abhisit called on the ruling Thai Rak Thai Party to drop its two conditions in order to show it was sincere in wanting to thrash out its differences with the opposition and the PAD.

The ruling party said on Friday it was ready to take part if the anti-Thaksin rally was disbanded and if all sides pledged to abide

by the outcome of the April 2 election.

"The talks will not take place if the ruling party insists on preconditions," Abhisit said yesterday.

He said priority should be given to the agenda, not how each side should come to the negotiating table.

The PAD said it would withdraw from the debate rather than stop protesting.

Somchai said the debate might still proceed between Thaksin and Abhisit.

Thaksin said he was ready for the debate regardless of its format.

"Anything is acceptable that leads to the best solution for the country," he said.

Thaksin said Government Spo-kesman Surapong Suebwonglee was in charge of preparations for the debate.