Thailand lifts political ban

“We don’t necessarily all want Thaksin back. We just want democracy” Sombat Boongamanong, protester

But despite the lifting of the ban on political activities, few voters and human rights groups believe either the referendum or poll can be free or fair.

 

Critics say the draft constitution weakens the role of politicians and gives too much power to bureaucrats, opening the door to army meddling in politics.

 

Sombat Boongamanong, a voter who was recently detained for opposing views, said it was a constitution by stealth.

 

“I think the army’s perception of protesters is wrong. We don’t necessarily all want Thaksin back,” he said. “We just want democracy.”

 

In addition to the new draft constitution, the military-led government is also amending the National Security Act to give the army greater powers of preventive detention.

 

Brad Adams, of Human Rights Watch, said the main power essentially remains in the hands of the army.

 

“It gives them judicial powers. It allows them to order people not to leave their homes,” he said.

 

The military however denies the security law will be used to silence government critics.

 

General Ruengroj Mahasaranont, the Supreme Commander of the Thai Army, said good people had nothing to worry.

 

“It [the law] will only affect bad people. We think having this law is better than not having it,” he added.

 

Coup leaders have also formed their own alliances ahead of the polls

Out of Thailand’s 76 provinces, 35 are still under martial law imposed after the bloodless coup.

 

When the elections will be held and who will contest it remains unclear, says Selina Downes, Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Bangkok.

 

“The military government dissolved the former prime minister’s Thai Rak Thai party. But old members have formed new alliances,” she said.

 

“The military too may form its own alliances, leaving many here wondering just how free and fair the elections can be.”

 

The Democrats, Thailand’s oldest political institution, said they support the draft constitution because it contains more strengths than weaknesses, and paves the way for national elections.

 

Korn Chatikavanij, the party’s deputy leader, said: “If you were to ask what are the three priorities… the first would be the restoration of democracy.”