Bangkok: The Cabinet has assigned Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai as the acting Prime Minister, granting him the same powers and duties as the Prime Minister.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, the spokesman of the Prime Minister's Office, stated that the Cabinet meeting agreed with the proposal from the Office of the Prime Minister. This proposal outlined the assignment of Deputy Prime Ministers to act in place of the Prime Minister, with Mr. Phumtham at the forefront.
The order of succession for acting in place of the Prime Minister includes Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, followed by Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Mr. Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, Mr. Pichai Chunhavajira, and Mr. Prasert Chantarawongthong. Mr. Phumtham, as the first in line, will have the authority to act with the same powers as the Prime Minister and will chair any relevant committee or organization. Should any of the subsequent acting Deputy Prime Ministers need to issue orders regarding personnel management or budget approval, Cabinet approval will be required.
The Secretariat has stated that the proposal is in line with legal principles and falls under the Cabinet's authority as per Section 41 of the Government Administration Act B.E. 2534. The Cabinet meeting has approved the proposal as recommended by the Office of the Prime Minister.