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Published on December 26, 2007

The council said it was now up to politicians to form the next government.

"The CNS hopes everyone will help propel the country toward unity and not interfere with the formation of a coalition, which is up to each party to decide," Supreme Commander General Boonsrang Niumpradit said.

Boonsrang expects resumption of political normalcy after the formation of a coalition government. He played down speculation of reprisals against the CNS and coup leaders, saying justice would prevail.

Preceding yesterday's CNS meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Sonthi Boonyaratglin and Defence Minister Boonrawd Somtas held talks with the top brass.

Sonthi and Boonrawd urged the military to stay out of politics, which is the domain of politicians.

The CNS praised the Election Commission for a successful election. It expects completion of the electoral process within 30 days.

The CNS vowed to shield the Assets Examination Committee, should it face revenge for performing its duty.

Top military leaders are expected tonight to attend the annual celebration hosted by Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy alumni at Army headquarters. Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont is expected to preside in the absence of Privy Council President Prem Tinsulanonda.

Meanwhile, Prem was not involved in moves to form a coalition government, and did not meet with Banharn Silapa-archa and Suwit Khunkitti as speculated, his aide Vice Admiral Pajun Tampratheep said yesterday.

"The speculation about the meeting between the Privy Council president and the two leaders of the Chart Thai and Puea Pandin parties is groundless, and any attempt to fuel such speculation is an act of political irresponsibility," Pajun said.

He said Prem was not concerned about the political situation in the wake of the People Power Party victory, and that the negotiations to form the next government would stay on course.

The Nation