He said the Election Commission had resolved to set the election day for October 15, according to a majority vote by political parties. "If the government delays making a decision, it will be accused of being insincere. It had earlier promised to give politicians time to move. I hope the Cabinet issues the resolution [today]," he said.

Banharn said many politicians - including some very well-known MPs - are waiting to switch to parties, but if the Cabinet does not decide today they will unable to, as the Constitution requires them to be members of a new party for at least 90 days.

Banharn said former Democrat Party secretary-general Pradit Pattaraprasit, had told him a long time ago before joining the Democrats that if he quits, he will join the Chat Thai party - or wash his hands of politics.

"It was a talk between an old man and a young man. I always stick to my word because if your word is true, your life is blessed," he said.

The Chat Thai leader warned Thaksin against approving funds for the three mass transit routes in Bangkok when it draws close to election time, as it will put the opposition parties at a disadvantage.

He said the government should instead speed-up the use of funds that have already been allocated for this year. "When there are no projects, there is no employment. If there is too much bureaucratic red tape, no projects can proceed."

Banharn warned the government to review its populist policies and whether they contribute, or encourage bad spending habits.