Thai PM hints elections could be delayed

Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, who led a military coup in May, said that elections planned for 2015 would depend on whether wide-ranging national reforms could be completed within a year.

The former army chief's remarks add to speculation that a general election promised for late 2015 could be pushed back and delay Thailand's return to democracy after a coup in May.

Prayuth made his remarks yesterday as he prepared to board a plane in Bangkok to attend an Asia-Europe Meeting in Milan.

"I outlined a road map. The election must come with a new constitution and 11 reform areas," said Prayuth. "Everything depends on the road map so we must see first if the road map can be completed. Elections take time to organise."

The army seized power in a bloodless coup following months of tumult - a move condemned by Western nations who urged Thailand to return to elections.

Despite Prayuth hanging up his military uniform - he retired as army chief last month - he has kept a firm grip on power. The military has quashed most dissent, threatening or arresting critics of the coup.