With the EC under fire from many quarters, Charupat was reported yesterday to have quit his post.

Charupat attended yesterday's EC meeting with political-party representatives to set a new election date. He said nothing there of his decision to resign.

Reporters were unable to

speak with Charupat. However, a source close to the commissioner said he had indicated to Senate Speaker Suchon Chaleekrua

that he would resign, saying he felt the time right following the EC's declaration of a new election date.

Suchon said yesterday that Charupat had contacted him, but failed to keep an appointment.

Some sources said Suchon had received a resignation letter. However, another source said a senior government figure had convinced Charupat to change his mind.

If Charupat has resigned, the Senate will seek a replacement swiftly, Suchon promised.

The speaker will receive legal advice today about the nomination of new EC candidates by either the Supreme or Constitution Courts.

Atthayuth Butrsripoom,

Sathien Viriyapanpongsa

The Nation