Most people hold little hope of political or economic stability in the coming six months, according to an opinion poll.

Almost 63 per cent of surveyed respondents was doubtful about political stability in the first half of this year while just 20 per cent was bullish, the Abac Poll Research Centre discovered. Almost 17 per cent had no view.

Dr Noppadon Kannika, director of Abac Poll

When it comes to the 2007 economy almost 62 per cent of those surveyed was uncertain about the future compared with more than 22 per cent that was positive. Another 16 per cent held no opinion.

Most survey respondents voted Council for National Security chairman General Sonthi Boonyaratglin "person of the year".

Of the respondents who followed political news 35 per cent voted for Sonthi as "person of the year". Deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra attracted almost 24 per cent of the vote and Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont just more than 19 per cent. Privy Council chief General Prem Tinsulanonda received 9.7 per cent of the vote.

The survey was conducted in 17 provinces around the country between December 13 and December 30.

When asked to select a phrase best describing the military-backed government 23 per cent chose "abstract'', almost 21 per cent opted for "old ginger", 12.5 per cent said it was a government that "does not practice what it preaches". Another 11.6 per cent thought "old but awesome" was apt and 8.5 per cent dubbed it a "special task government" and 7.2 per cent "a government that works at a snail's pace".

Asked what they wanted from their government in the New Year 40.6 per cent sought a solution to poverty, 34 per cent an end to South violence, 13.6 per cent a crackdown on corruption while 8.2 per cent rated national reconciliation top and 7.2 per cent desired an end to drug problems.

Abac Poll director Dr Noppadon Kannika believed large section of respondents thought the government "abstract" because it was yet to make any concrete achievements.

He added the survey suggested the Surayud government had few firm supporters. As a result the country is at risk of future political turmoil.

March and May will see judicial decisions in  political cases and much of grassroots Thailand seasonally unemployed - "It will be a time for confrontation."

 "There will be many political issues to be judged after New Year. But, the people are not united," warned Noppadon.