Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated, as reported by The Guardian, that the parliament has been dissolved, citing the need to return power to the citizens. The government spokesperson explained that this decision is related to disagreements with the largest opposition force—the People's Party. "We cannot move forward in parliament," he emphasized in an interview with Reuters.
The King of Thailand, Maha Vajiralongkorn, confirmed the decree that paved the way for early elections, scheduled by law to take place within 45-60 days.
Anutin also noted that the dissolution of parliament will not affect military operations to secure the border, where clashes have occurred, including the use of heavy artillery, resulting in at least 20 deaths and around 200 injuries.
"I am returning power to the people," the Prime Minister emphasized.
Earlier in September, Anutin planned to dissolve parliament by the end of January and hold a general vote in March or early April; however, this decision will expedite the election process.
The political instability in the country coincides with a border conflict with Cambodia, which has already resulted in casualties. U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he could resolve the conflict with one phone call.
