Thai House Dissolution Speculation Quelled by Council

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In a swirl of political speculation, Thailand's Council of State has clarified that a caretaker prime minister lacks the constitutional power to dissolve the House of Representatives. This comes amid rumours that the Pheu Thai Party might consider such a move if unsuccessful in forming a new government.

Pakorn Nilpraphun, the Council of State's secretary-general, addressed the media prior to a special cabinet meeting, underscoring that only a sitting prime minister holds the authority to dissolve the House. He stressed that a caretaker must be mindful of their limited mandate, continuing with essential administrative tasks but refraining from overstepping boundaries.

During the cabinet meeting, focus shifted to filling key roles left vacant by the Constitutional Court's decision to remove former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. PM's Office Minister Chousak Sirinil confirmed that dissolving the House was not on the agenda, stating, "A new government is still being formed. It's premature to consider dissolution—we'll only address this if the process fails."

In response to the court's ruling, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has stepped in as caretaker prime minister, while Dr Prommin Lertsuridej continues as the prime minister's secretary-general.

Minister Chousak noted that the caretaker cabinet would handle urgent matters without constraining future administrations. Regarding growing tensions at the Thai-Cambodian border, Chousak indicated that appointments are planned for Sunday. He also confirmed that political appointees lost their roles with Paetongtarn's removal.

Deputy Defence Minister Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit reassured citizens that national security remains intact despite the caretaker status, as operational control has been effectively delegated within the Ministry of Defence.

Intrigue surrounded the absence of seven acting ministers from the cabinet meeting, all of whom had submitted leave requests. These included Education Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat, Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn, and Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, among others.

This political landscape remains dynamic, with key decisions pending as Thailand navigates the formation of a new government. Economical stability and public confidence ride on the outcome, as these developments unfold with significant implications for the nation's future.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-09-01