"As an independent agency under the interim Constitution, the commission is obliged to proceed with caution in its review of the ban," Apichat said after meeting with the leaders of more than 40 political parties.

The meeting discussed guidelines for funding to promote the development of political parties. It debated the ban, too.

Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva said the commission should ask the Cabinet to support lifting the ban because that would carry more weight.

"The ban is no longer relevant for maintaining security and peace and parties are obliged to abide by relevant laws. None will rush to burn down schools or stage bomb attacks after the ban is lifted," Abhisit said.

He said ending the ban would allow parties to solicit voters' views of the new constitution as well as resume activities ahead of the general election.

Party executives supporting Abhisit include Sanan Kachornprasart of Mahachon, Snoh Thienthong of Pracharaj, Pongthep Thepkanchana of Thai Rak Thai and Nikorn Chamnong of Chat Thai.

"The ban might be designed to prevent political undercurrents and subversion but it is achieving the unanticipated result of blocking essential campaign activities for existing and emerging parties," Snoh said.

Commission member Sumet Oupanisakorn agreed with the call to allow preparation for the election.