Thailand’s post-coup elections could take place earlier than October if the constitution is drafted ahead of schedule, officials said today.

Thailand’s leaders dismissed rumours of a new coup, seeking to calm the situation following September’s military takeover and a string of New Year’s Eve bombings in Bangkok.

Thailand’s new interim prime minister devoted today to meetings with Asian, European, African and US diplomats, hoping to explain the post-coup political situation and repair the country’s damaged reputation.