Everything in place for junta to call election 

The report says, “Prawit rejected the notion that the junta would attempt some sort of ‘trick’ over the date.”
Prawit is correct because no trick is necessary.
Until a new elected prime minister and nominated Cabinet has been endorsed, Prayut as chief of the NCPO holds the power of Article 44 under the 2017 constitution to legally do whatever he wants. Orders empowered by Article 44 have constitutional authority and no court can challenge them.
Srikcir
Window-dressing as usual by the junta. They will only allow something resembling a democratic election after they have enforced regulations that guarantee one of their puppets will become PM.
After all, a proper government might cut their income streams and confiscate the geese that are laying golden eggs.
doublezero 
No need for that guarantee. The new constitution defines specific institutions and oversight committees that guarantee the elected government only does what is deemed acceptable.
Timendres
ThaiVisa