Military fights the battle of Korat

A group of anti-regime students dressed as ghosts appeared Sunday at Democracy Monument in Bangkok to mock the state of democracy in the country with a birthday cake decorated with a replica of the disappeared plaque celebrating the anniversary of the June 24, 1932 revolution. The group demands an immediate election as originally promised by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, rather than 'early next year' as promised last week. (Photo by Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)

At a time when major parties wrestle with what is described as the "siphoning power" of Phalang Pracharat Party in getting former MPs to defect to it for the new general election, Nakhon Ratchasima is seen as one of the most important target territories which they cannot afford to lose.

The battle to snare those former MPs in the Northeast, an important political stronghold of the former ruling Pheu Thai Party, has been raging for some time and there are reports that a powerful trio is stepping in to lead the fight on the Phalang Pracharat's side.

The trio are said to be former transport minister Suriya Jungrungreangkij, veteran Sukhothai politician Somsak Thepsuthin and Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak.