CPD adviser Pipop Dhongchai said the government had completely failed in the fight against corruption because it did not prioritise cases, which delayed investigations.

The government and the security council also fell short at the National Legislative Assembly because Meechai Ruchuphan had been installed as assembly speaker, a move that sparked conflict before and after he assumed the post. The continuation of martial law was a sign that the interim government was incompetent, the CPD said.

"Postponing the lifting of martial law shows that the government lacks the ability to handle political undercurrents,'' CPD secretary-general Suriyasai Katasila said.

The phrase "political undercurrent" is being used to refer to supporters of ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra who are working to have him return to power.