Coup leader, General Sonthi Boonyaratglin, who now heads the ruling Council for Political Reform,has set out a timetable for his role as head of government, saying he would stay in power only two weeks, while a new constitution was drafted, then step aside and let a transitional government take over.
He expected fresh elections to held in November next year.
In its announcement of the coup late Tuesday evening, the army condemned the Thaksin government for its behaviour towards the king.
“Despite attempts from social units for compromises, there is no way to end the conflict,” the army’s announcement said.
“The revolution body thus needs to seize power. We have no intention to rule but to return the power to the people as soon as possible, to preserve peace and honour the king who is the most revered to all Thais.”
Although the military called the coup an attempt to end the continuing political turmoil in Thailand, members denied they had consulted King Bhumibol Adulyadej on their plans.
“We can assure you this was solely and entirely our decision,”said General Sonthi yesterday when asked about the king’s knowledge of the plot.
Yesterday was declared a national holiday and coup leaders ordered top public servants to a meeting at military headquarters to announce their “new policy”. They later briefed foreign diplomats on their plans.
