PPP picks PM today

The party choice is still focused on the three Ss - Somchai Wongsawat, Sompong Amornwiwat and Surapong Suebwonglee. Key figures in the ruling party, however, support deputy leader Somchai Wongsawat as its candidate but they are willing to opt for Sompong if Somchai meets with too much opposition from the public, especially from the People's Alliance for Democracy. Newin Chidchob's faction continues to throw its weight behind Surapong.

House votes on new PM Wednesday

On Wednesday morning, the Lower House is expected to vote on the new prime minister. The Chart Thai Party, Puea Pandin Party, Pracharaj Party, Ruam Jai Thai Chart Pattana Party and Matchima Thipataya have agreed to accept any candidate proposed by the PPP except former prime minister Samak Sundaravej.

Land case verdict on Wednesday

On Wednesday afternoon, the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions is scheduled to hand down the verdict on the Ratchadaphisek landpurchase case against former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife, Pojaman.

The verdict will be the first in many corruption cases brought against Thaksin by the Assets Examination Committee.