Council of State, Phumtham split over caretaker PM’s dissolution power

13 Sept 12:36 Key points summarised by AI

Interim Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai maintains his authority to request parliament's dissolution, despite legal interpretations to the contrary.
Pakorn Nilprapunt, secretary-general of the Council of State, disputes Phumtham's claim, asserting that only a sitting prime minister, not a caretaker, holds the power to dissolve parliament.
Reports suggest Phumtham and the Pheu Thai Party are considering dissolution to prevent Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul from becoming the next prime minister.
The legality of a caretaker prime minister dissolving parliament remains a point of contention, with the Constitutional Court being the ultimate arbiter should the situation arise.

Public expects most Kla Tham MPs to back Cabinet in censure vote, NIDA Poll finds

Yesterday 12:30 Key points summarised by AI

A recent NIDA poll indicates that a plurality of the public (30.38%) anticipates Kla Tham Party MPs will vote to support all 18 cabinet ministers targeted in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
Respondents believe the Ministry of Interior (38.78%) and the Prime Minister’s Office (21.37%) will face the toughest questioning during the censure debate.
Economic issues, particularly alleged incompetence in addressing problems (34.27%) and the rising cost of living (25.88%), are cited as the primary concerns for the government during the censure.
The public holds high expectations for the Opposition's case, with 45.65% believing clear, concrete evidence will be presented against all 18 ministers, and 41.22% expecting substantial evidence against specific ministers.