The Democrat Party expects the Constitution Court to rule this week on whether the party is to be dissolved for allegedly violating election laws.

Former MP Wirat Kalayasiri, the Democrats' legal expert, said the party was confident it not violated the Constitution and Political Party Act.

He also said the party's legal team would gather all the complaints filed by secretary-general Suthep Thuagsuban and senior member Thaworn Senniem against the Election Commission, he said. "We are confident in the charges that our executives filed because we have a lot of evidence and it seems that EC chairman Vasana [Puemlarp] has become more concerned about the charges," he said. - The Nation.

Poll procedures

Voters to be allowed choice of pen, stamp

The Election Commission will comply with the Supreme Administrative Court ruling on April 7 that it must provide both a pen and a rubber stamp at each ballot box, EC secretary-general Ekkachai Warunprapha said yesterday.

He said voters could use either a pen or a stamp during Bangkok's local elections this Sunday, and also in the general election scheduled for October 15.

The EC had changed its rules, forcing voters to cast their ballot by marking an "X" with a rubber stamp, and not a pen, during the general election on April 2.

However, some groups appealed to the Administrative Court, which nullified that rule. The EC appealed to the Supreme Administrative Court, but it refused to overturn the lower court's decision. - The Nation.

pracharaj party

Launch delayed due to turmoil

The new Pracharaj Party has postponed its official launch due to "the unclear political situation", according to its leader's son. The party was formed by former Thai Rak Thai Party chief adviser Snoh Thienthong. His son Sorawong Thienthong yesterday explained the official launch had been postponed.

Pracharaj executives wanted to launch the outfit after the celebrations for the 60th anniversary of His Majesty the King's accession to the throne.

"We are closely monitoring political developments. Things remain unclear now. It's getting protracted and boring," Sorawong said. - The Nation.