"The Navy has worried for quite some time about various unsettled problems in the country. Commanders have discussed and exchanged ideas on the matter. We are not happy with the situation. We want to persuade all parties in conflict to talk to and help each other," Sathiraphan said.

The Navy has been known for avoiding making comments on political issues.

Some political observers linked Sathiraphan's rare comments to the refusal of members of the Election Commission to resign after the Constitutional Court invalidated the April 2 election and ordered a new one.

The three top courts - Constitutional, Administrative and Supreme - have suggested that the EC resign to pave the way for a newly recruited EC to handle the new election. The meeting of the courts took place at HM the King's suggestion.

Declining to specify names, the Navy chief said if every party heeds the rules, all problems would be solved by now.

The chiefs of the armed forces are tentatively scheduled to meet on Thursday evening. The Navy commander said that he could not reveal when and where the meeting will take place.

Army Commander Sonthi Boonyaratklin said earlier that the chiefs of the armed forces are seeking an audience with HM the King to report to him about the country's situation, including the South. Sonthi said the King is very worried about the ongoing conflicts in the country. He said the military chiefs would meet among themselves first before their audience with the King.

The Nation