Prayut Chan-o-Cha

And if they are not, what should liberal and democratic political parties in Thailand do?

The premier has intensified his effort to strengthen his brand in the run-up to much-anticipated polls.

A closer look at what an unprecedented development might mean for upcoming elections and the country’s political future.

Now will the country actually go to the polls as scheduled on March 24 -- and will elections make a difference?

This time around, Thailand’s elections, slated for February 2019, look like they will actually materialize. But can they rescue its troubled democracy?

Though Bangkok continues to look for ways to realize its ambitions on this front, several uncertainties remain.

The Thai government must face greater international pressure to deliver on its promise to lift political restrictions.

The generals want to be sure the opposition is eliminated before agreeing to hold elections.

Impatience is growing after multiple delays.

The military junta, despite promises, has made little progress in weeding out corruption.

The recent failure of both sides to reach agreement is not all that surprising upon careful examination.

Repeated election delays are the product of a fierce power struggle that is still ongoing.