Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha has decided not to join any political party – not even the pro-junta one, The Nation reported on Tuesday. Monday was the last day for election candidates to announce their political affiliation, which has to be done 90 days before the election, tentatively set for February 24. Parties can nominate up to three PM candidates to be voted for by the House of Representatives after the general election. Gen Prayut said so far, he has not been approached by any party to stand as their candidate, according The Bangkok Post. Prayut’s wish to stay on in power after the general election has dampened hopes of a new beginning for Thai democracy, writes Termsak Chalermpalanupap for Channel News Asia.