"The Thai Rak Thai Party would like to commend the government for heeding the popular demand for freedom even though basic rights have yet to be fully restored," party acting leader Chaturon Chaisang said.

Chaturon said the permission for public gatherings was a step in the right direction to honour the government's pledge to involve the people in decision-making and the drafting of a new charter following the September 19 coup.

He said he understood the government would next amend two announcements by the coup-makers in order to allow political parties to become fully active.

The Cabinet is empowered to give the green light for the resumption of party activities without having to go through the legislative process, he said.

Chaturon urged a quick end to martial law, saying his party would never resort to creating a climate of confrontation.

Democrat Party deputy leader Jurin Laksanavisit said he had detected a sharp drop in political tension after the easing of restrictions. "The political landscape will improve further if authorities expedite the resumption of party activities and the cancellation of martial law," he said.

Chat Thai Party leader Banharn Silapa-archa said the government and the Council for National Security should remain vigilant for subversive activities. He expressed concern about possible street protests organised by deposed politicians.

National Legislative Assembly Speaker Meechai Ruchuphan said political parties were still prohibited from campaign activities.