BANGKOK - Martial law in Thailand continues to be observed despite calls from various sectors to lift it.

Thailand Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha,  former Thai Army commander, claimed on Tuesday that martial law will continue to prevail throughout Thailand until such time that national reforms are stable and in place.

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He rejected calls to lift martial law as he cited that there are still "unusual movements" across the country and that the martial law is needed to maintain peace and order.

"Don't ask me about the special law now. Let reform happen first and once various situations calm down I will consider lifting it myself," Chan-ocha said.

The country's tourism sector has called for the lifting of martial law in order to boost the tourism industry as it was adversely affected by almost six months of street protests.

Tourism is one of the biggest economic drivers of Thailand, accounting for one-tenth of its economy.

It was reported that there was a decrease of tourist arrivals in Thailand in August compared to the same period of last year.

To recall, Thailand was a stage of massive protest actions last May when groups called for the ouster of then Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra.   

The series of street protests resulted to a military takeover of the government on May 22, and the eventual declaration of martial law throughout the country.   

A ruling military junta was led by Chan-ocha who was then the commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Army.

Meanwhile, Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej endorsed for the creation of a National Reform Council that will be in charge for the drafting of a new constitution. The council was formed with 250 members from the different sectors of the society.

Most Thai political experts agree that once all reforms are in place, an election can happen in 2015.

TagsThailand, Prayuth Chan-ocha, Martial Law, Military junta, Thailand King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Yingluck Shinawatra