PM Surayud upbeat for smooth transition of power

"I have no cause for concern as I think parties could reach a decision," he said.

Surayud said everyone should respect the outcome because the Sunday's balloting was free and fair.

"The people have decided to elect this party and everyone must respect their judgement," he said in reference to the victory of the People Power Party.

He said he anticipated no troubles if former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra decided to return home to fight his charges.

He said he had nothing to say in regard to the formation of the new government as parties could draw their own conclusion.

He said he instructed police to beef up security in order to ensure peace during the New Year celebrations and that he expected a smooth transition of power.

Chief royal adviser General Prem Tinsulanonda said all parties concerned should strive for strength, unity, preseverance and sacrifice for the greater good of society.

"I am certain that the universal sacredness will protect those who have made sacrifices for the country," he said in a speech at a lunchoen for charities he sponsored as the Privy Council president.

The Nation