Thailand's newly elected parliament to convene after legislative body's 2-year absence

Thailand's lower house of parliament convenes Monday for its first session in almost two years, restoring democracy and returning to politics many key allies of deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn will preside over the customary opening ceremony of the House of Representatives, the palace announced.

Official work will begin Tuesday when lawmakers nominate a president of parliament, or House Speaker. The selection of a prime minister was scheduled for Friday.

The imminent installation of an elected government in Thailand is expected to bring some short-term political calm after the September 2006 coup that ousted …