The key question: Will Democrats back Prayut as next PM? 

The article lays out many of the interesting questions to come.
Tulsathit Taptim writes: “Prayut’s rating on election day will determine the vote’s outcome. Since he is the figure pitted against the Shinawatra clan, if voters like him, they will like the latter less. And vice versa. It’s that simple.”
Respect to the author, but I don’t believe that is the key question, nor do I believe that it is that simple. 
I think that the key question lies with the Democrats. In order for Prayut to become PM again, he will need the support of one of the major parties, and obviously Pheu Thai is not going to support him. The military might try to set up a new party, but the Dems have planted deep roots in Bangkok and the South, and it would be difficult for a new party to challenge that. In Bangkok and the North, the Pheu Thai has planted roots, and it would be very difficult to rip those out, even with the military cheating. It is a fact of life that people tend to continue voting for their party no matter what; I cannot give you a great explanation as to why, but any political scientist will confirm it. A new military-backed party would likely win a few seats, but not many. And if Prayut tries to form a government based on the appointed Senate, I predict widespread discontent both at home and abroad.
So, will the Democrats support Prayut?
THAT is the question. And one that should be answered sooner rather than later.
Samui Bodoh
The reds and Democrats joining up purely to keep Prayut and his buddies as far away from politics as they can… Now that really would hurt Prayut’s feelings.  
Rkidlad
The junta and Khun Prayut seem to have it all in play. Thailand is ticking over and things are moving.
I believe Khun Prayut will be here for a good while yet.
And the nay-sayers ... well, they can go do what they like.
Steven100
As a leader, Khun Prayut is very thin-skinned, terrified of debate, horrified by scrutiny and cannot verbally defend himself as well as you can.  It is sad if you do not think your country is capable of, or entitled to, better leadership. 
Yellowboat
What on earth is the point of elections in Thailand? The military will kick out any government that they disagree with, as they always do. Elections are a total waste of time and money. 
dbrenn
The point is that the majority of the people want an election. What the military want to do is immaterial. Freedom of choice and universal suffrage are not measured in time and money. Many lives and money were lost for those who want democracy in the world. Worth every sacrifice. 
Eric Loh
ThaiVisa