Thailand: vulnerable PPP

Last month's general election will be under scrutiny this week in Thailand's Supreme Court, adding legal complications to prickly coalition talks that will intensify as a mourning period for Princess Galyani Vadhana comes to an end.

The Election Commission faces questions over early polling arrangements, while the pro-Thaksin Shinawatra People Power Party (PPP) -- which won the most seats but fell short of an outright majority -- has been accused of violating campaign rules and of acting as a proxy for banned Thaksin outfit, Thai Rak Thai. It has already staked its claim on government. However, dozens of its candidates are under investigation for possible fraud and several have already been disqualified, leaving the final seat tally subject to revision. While some censured candidates will have the chance to contest seats again this week, others face an outright ban, along with their parties.

All this leaves the PPP vulnerable. Its victory is an affront to the interests of the established elite. With recent pleas from the revered king for unity ringing in their ears, politicians and the military initially hinted at normalcy and harmony after the poll. However, there are yawning divides. Hopes for a smooth transition to stable government are unlikely to be fulfilled.