For the palace these elections are a showdown they’re not looking for reconciliation or compromise.

It was a remarkable climb down by the king, and overall we must be happy with this. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be looking at the various problems which need to be addressed.

They wanted to strong-arm the parties into a dirty compromise, a compromise that in their heart of hearts they knew wouldn’t work.

They may yet be brought into non-violent mainstream politics, but only if the moderate forces are backed unequivocally by the outside world. . . . For the time being, they are in the driver’s seat.

The whole thing is a farce but the king looks like carrying on regardless. It is a big mistake.

The blockade was obviously a negotiating tactic. It’s an encouraging sign.

Most of the concessions he appeared to offer were very much cosmetic.