A joint statement issued in Washington on Oct 2, signed by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and US President Donald Trump, promised elections in 2018. The past 12 months were marked by many events that will continue to shape the country in the years ahead. Another evente that shaped the country's future was the trial, and subsequent escape from same, of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Then in 2017, when Gen Prayut visited the White House, he promised elections in 2018. Other events that shaped the political landscape of the country has been the issue of Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon and his taste for expensive watches.

Source: Bangkok Post December 30, 2017 21:33 UTC