What they say about Somchai Wongsawat

"Somchai would be acceptable, because he is gentle and well suited for the job. Given the present political situation, such traits are invaluable, because we need someone who can compromise with all sides."

Kanchana Silapa-archa

"I still cannot say whether Somchai can solve the country's crisis. We must first wait and see who the People Power Party nominates as prime minister on September 17. It's the party's prerogative, with its majority voice. It's important to see whether the new government can resolve the problems and conditions that stemmed from the Samak Sundaravej administration."

Chuan Leekpai, chief advisor, Democrat

"Somchai Wongsawat is the most appropriate candidate for the job, but the political problems are much bigger than what a prime minister usually faces. He can help reduce tensions, especially he scored political points by lifting the emergency decree."

Suthep Thaugsuban, Democrat Party secretary-general

"Somchai is a gentle person suited for the current situation. He is even accepted by the Democrat Party and this is evident by the fact that he was appointed permanent secretary of Justice Ministry when Chuan Leekpai was prime minister."

Suraphong Tovichakchaikul, PPP Chiang Mai MP

"Society may question the close ties between Somchai and former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Somchai should earn the society's trust by doing something that shows he is independent and neutral, such as making a decision on the issue of Thaksin's diplomatic passport."

Rosana Tositrakul, Bangkok senator

"The PAD does not accept, because Somchai is not just a proxy but a brother-in-law of Pol Lt-Colonel Thaksin Shinawatra."

Somsak Kosaisuk, co-leader of the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD)