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Published on August 21, 2007

However, he could not confirm the exact date as he will be discussing the issue with Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont on Thursday or Friday.

Junta chief General Sonthi Boonyaratglin yesterday reiterated that the poll should take place by the year's end. But he did not rule out a condition that the poll could be delayed if something "necessary and more important" happened.

"It might come early or late. It could happen, though," he said, adding he would have to talk with the prime minister and election commissioners about the election day.

After he knew the constitution draft had been approved in the referendum on Sunday, Surayud confirmed that the general election would take place before the end of the year but after His Majesty the King's 80th birthday on December 5.

He told the whole nation that a definite election date would be announced after a royal command for the promulgation of the new constitution and the completion of the legislative process for organic laws relating to elections.

Meanwhile, Constitution Drafting Assembly chairman Noranit Setabutr said he would today pass the new constitution through Meechai Ruchuphan, the speaker of the National Legislative Assembly, to ask for royal endorsement.

The assembly will reportedly hold a special session on Thursday to approve three organic laws.