Thai election body urges delay in polls

An anti-government protester, second from left, prepares to throw back a tear gas canister fired by riot police near a sport stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, December 26, 2013. AP

BANGKOK— Thailand’s Election Commission has urged the government to delay polls scheduled for February 2.

The announcement on Thursday followed seven hours of violent protests outside a sports stadium being used by candidates to draw lots for their position on polling papers for the vote.

The call by the commission will add to the political uncertainty gripping the nation.

In a statement, the commission said it is urging the government to consider “postponing the elections,” citing the lack of “peace” between the government and protesters.