Bangkok: The Secretary-General of the Council of State has clarified that the acting Prime Minister does not have the authority to dissolve parliament, a power reserved solely for the Prime Minister.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pakorn Nilprapan, who serves as the Secretary-General of the Office of the Council of State, addressed reporters’ questions prior to a special Cabinet meeting. He stated unequivocally that the Acting Prime Minister cannot dissolve Parliament, as this authority is exclusive to the Prime Minister. He expressed his personal belief that such an action is not feasible and mentioned the importance of considering potential issues that could arise from such a request. Mr. Nilprapan emphasized the need for careful deliberation regarding permissible actions, highlighting the existence of specific limitations on what can be done.

Further clarifying the roles within the government, Mr. Nilprapan noted that the term “acting” will not be applied to other ministerial positions. Instead, these roles will be filled as regular ministers. Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai is set to assume the role of acting Prime Minister, following the cessation of the current Cabinet’s functions. A meeting is scheduled to officially appoint him as the acting Prime Minister.