Update:Thai king signs constitution, paving way for election
[BANGKOK] Thailand's king signed a new constitution in a ceremony on Thursday, an essential step towards holding an election that the military government has promised to restore democracy after a 2014 coup.
In a nationwide broadcast, King Maha Vajiralongkorn was seen signing the constitution, giving it royal endorsement and setting in motion a process for Thailand's next general election, expected late next year.
The constitution is Thailand's 20th since the end of absolute monarchy in 1932 and critics of army rule say it will still give the generals a powerful say over Thai politics for years, if not decades.
The constitution is now due to be published in the Royal Gazette, after which it becomes law.
REUTERS
BT is now on Telegram!
For daily updates on weekdays and specially selected content for the weekend. Subscribe to t.me/BizTimes
International
Laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, rich cuisine and low cost of living lure more expat retirees to Malaysia
Vietnam tycoon appeals against US$27 billion fraud death sentence
US announces new restrictions on firearm exports
Central banks will probably only cut half as much as they hiked
US consumer sentiment falls as inflation expectations climb
HSBC wins £1.3 billion suit over Disney film finance scandal