While all eyes are fixed on what the three courts' recommendations will be, and how they will be carried out, the responsibility for driving the country forward actually rests with each and every one of us.

The April 2 election might be declared void, a new election might take place, an interim government might be established, and a special independent body might be assigned to amend the Constitution.

All of these possible alternatives are important in guiding society on what to do next, but they're just a beginning. It doesn't mean that if the courts' suggestions are followed, our democracy will suddenly be strengthened as if by magic.

How successful political reform turns out to be depends largely on our willingness to change the current political culture. There's no point to holding a new election if it is still tainted by vote-buying and vote-selling and attempts to beat the election rules. The sudden surge in small-party candidates, along with accusations that some were actually hired by a big party, is yet to be explained by the Election Commission.

If no changes occur, any election result could once again become the subject of heated debate. There could be more accusations and harsher verbal attacks from each side. And alas! We would remain trapped in a vicious cycle.

A new round of voting - if indeed there is one - could only make a difference if the former opposition parties were included, and they have already announced they will cooperate fully with whatever the courts recommend.

At the same time, all independent organisations must be able to demonstrate their impartiality and a firm adherence to upholding fairness. Those responsible must not compromise their principles, not even a millimetre; otherwise, any attempt to strengthen the political system is doomed to failure.

Most importantly, politicians must possess a new mentality, placing national interest well before party or personal interests. If they think solely of their own interests and not those of the people, then nothing will actually happen. Furthermore, they must be able to stand up to any wrongdoing, even that which occurs within their own parties.

One point requiring caution, though, is the call by some politicians to amend that part of the Constitution which stipulates a candidate must have been affiliated with his or her party for 90 days to be eligible to stand for election. Although the scenario of members finding themselves "locked" into a party has already manifested itself, unlocking such a requirement might result in politicians switching parties purely for their own benefit. The very concept of members joining a party out of political ideology could be forever erased, and we could find ourselves reverting to the old system of "musical chairs".

Also missing from Thai political culture is admitting one's mistakes and taking responsibility for them. If such a political phenomenon as we have experienced of late were to happen elsewhere, those responsible would have already resigned. But this might be too much to ask for in Thailand.

So let's start with an apology. A simple yet sincere "sorry" from all those involved who should have realised their mistakes by now would definitely herald a positive turn in Thai politics. They should understand they are accountable to the citizens who pay their taxes every month. Nevertheless, such an expectation is only a taxpayer's dream.

And what about the voters themselves? Politically, we can certainly participate more than by merely going to the polling stations. Not selling our vote is one way; choosing reliable representatives is another. We should monitor politicians' behaviour closely and send clear signals that no amount of corruption will be tolerated. The recent large number of "no votes" cast, continuous demonstrations and various expressions of civil disobedience clearly reflect increased participation.

As Thailand's political problems are mostly deep-rooted, it might take some time, maybe a very long time, to change our culture. His Majesty the King's words of advice to us, his subjects, should serve as a good starting point for jump-starting a new, transparent and accountable political atmosphere. All it takes for politics to function in a healthy manner is simply for each of us to understand our duty and responsibilities and following through earnestly.

Democracy does have its flaws, and laws do have their loopholes. It is how those laws are used that determines whether a democracy is strong or weak.

Veenarat Laohapakakul

The Nation