BANGKOK, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Thailand would let the European Union (EU) to observe Thailand's general election, slated for Dec.23, but Thai Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont rejected to sign a MOU with the EU, which he said would allow the latter to "control" the election in his country, local media reported Wednesday.

    According to a report posted on the website of Bangkok Post, Surayud said Wednesday that he had discussed with Election Commission (EC) chairman Apichart Sukhakkhanont about the EU proposal that it send officials to monitoring the election.

    Surayud said he and Apichart discussed the form in which the EU will be allowed to monitor Thailand's election -- whether to observe or to control the polls.

    "Signing the MOU means that they will control the election, which he (EC chairman) also disagreed," Surayud was quoted as saying. He added that EC has formally informed the EU on the matter.

    Surayud's remarks came after EC commissioner Sodsri Sattayathamrevealed that a delegation of 120 EU representatives will be in Thailand to observe the poll.

    The prime minister also reiterated that Dec. 23 would be the best date to hold the general election, which is considered as a crucial step to "restore democracy" to Thailand.

    On Sep. 19 last year, the military launched a coup to oust the elected government led by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatraand installed the Surayud-led interim government.

    Some critics had suggested inviting international watchdog to observe the polls to ensure the credibility of the results.

Thailand to hold general eclection Dec. 23

    BANGKOK, Aug. 27 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's prime minister Surayud Chulanont and the Election Commission (EC) agreed on Monday to hold the general election on Dec. 23 this year.

    The election date was announced by Election Commission chairman Apichart Sukkhakanont at a press conference at Government House.