Thailand referendum gets under way as military seeks to cement power

Source: The Guardian

Yes vote on new constitution backed by junta would hand control of senate to commanders, granting them a veto on decisions by elected lawmakers

Thailand votes on Sunday in a referendum on a new junta-backed constitution that would pave the way for a general election in 2017 but require future governments to rule on the military’s terms.

The referendum is the first major popularity test for the junta led by Prayuth Chan-ocha, who as prime minister has suppressed political activity during the two years since he seized power in a coup in 2014.

Polls suggest a small lead in favour of accepting the new constitution but most voters remain undecided. There are 50 million eligible voters and the Election Commission is targeting a turnout of 80%. Preliminary results are expected in the evening.

Read more: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/aug/07/thailand-referendum-gets-under-way-as-junta-seeks-to-cement-power