Polls are near, Wissanu tells US envoy

US ambassador Glyn Davies met Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam Tuesday, when Mr Wissanu assured him that this time the military will stick to the political roadmap and hold elections by May, 2017. (Photos by Thanarak Khunton)

Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam has reassured US ambassador Glyn Davies that Thailand is following the roadmap to restore democracy and a general election will be held by May 2017.

Speaking after talks with Mr Davies Tuesday, Mr Wissanu said a number of issues, including the political situation, were discussed. 

He said he told the US envoy the country is moving towards full democracy under the roadmap.

The US ambassador had asked about the government's 6-4 6-4 formula, and was told it was the time line for the charter drafting process leading up to the election, the deputy prime minister said.

"The roadmap to the election that I explained to the US ambassador was no different to the one I outlined to other diplomats,'' Mr Wissanu said.

"It is better the ambassador listens to me rather than read reports in the media,'' he added.

Mr Wissanu also said he is ready to provide more constitution drafting information if the ambassador wants it.

Mr Davies said he will strive to ensure that longstanding Thai-US diplomatic ties remain strong despite the political instability in Thailand.

"I expressed my desire [to Mr Wissanu] to do everything I can to deepen and strengthen the relationship between our two countries,'' he said.

Mr Davies told reporters he had a "productive and pleasant'' meeting with the deputy prime minister.

"We will continue to discuss the roadmap as a general matter for us,'' he said, adding he would pay Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha a courtesy call tomorrow.

Source: http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/745560/polls-are-near-wissanu-tells-us-envoy