Thailand's election commission has requested the indefinite postponement of an early vote, which was called for by Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra as a way out of the country's political crisis, which turned violent again Thursday.
In a statement, the commission cited a lack of peace between the government and protesters, who for weeks have demanded that Prime Minister Yingluck step down and hand power to an unelected council.
Earlier Thursday, police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at anti-government protesters who were trying to disrupt election preparations.
The clashes began after protesters ignored police warnings and stormed a sports stadium in Bangkok where officials were registering candidates for the scheduled February 2 vote.
The protesters hurled rocks at police, but later withdrew and the election preparations continued as usual. Officials said at least 32 protesters were hurt during the incident.
Police spokesman Piya Uthayo said three policemen also were injured.