Samak declares victory and is ready to be PM

Samak declared victory in the national election on Sunday, saying he is now ready to be the 24 prime minister.

Speaking at a press conference, Samak told reporters for the first time after the election that he would like to invite all political parties to join the government.

Samak said the vote counting that have continued at the press time showed that his party could gain altogether about 220-230 MPs, which is almost half of the total MPs.

"I am confident that I will become the next prime minster, because my party has nearly half of House seats now. Thaksin has called me to say congratulations to the new prime minister," Samak told the press conference.

Coup is dead, says Thailand's likely premier Eds: epa photos available

Samak said the people's support for his party had sent a strong message to the military which staged a coup 15 months ago.

"The coup is dead," Samak said.

 He also gave an interview to foreign reporters in English. He said the victory of his party is the victory of the Thai people.

Samak said since his party had a clear lead it would like to invite other parties to join its coalition.

"From now on, I'll form a coaliton government," Samak told the press conference.

The Nation