Bangkok: "Bhumtham" is waiting for the National Security Council to evaluate the dissolution of the NCPO next week. "Phumtham" revealed that he is waiting for the National Security Council (NSC) to evaluate the dissolution of the NCPO next week. He insisted there were no military issues and clarified that the appointment of "Big Lek" as an advisor was not an advisor to the NCPO. He denied removing anyone's name. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, addressed the clarification regarding the dissolution of the Thailand-Cambodia Border Situation Administration Center (TCASAB), stating that he had discussed the situation with General Nattapol Nakphanit, Deputy Minister of Defense and Director of the TCASAB, during the period of the easing of the situation. He stated that this was an on-the-ground assessment. If the situation improves, the center will be dissolved and authority will be transferred to various ministries. There had been discussions about dissolv ing the center after discussions and the completion of the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting. However, due to the escalating situation over the past few days, there is no need to convene a National Security Council (NSC) meeting this week.
According to Thai News Agency, there will be another meeting on Monday, August 18th, which should provide clarity. This matter is not a problem, but rather a discussion with relevant agencies to consider the situation at each stage. The National Security Council and the Center for the Emergency Situation Administration (CRESA) also include the armed forces. I confirm that there is no misunderstanding regarding this matter. Authority has been delegated primarily to the front line. I want all parties to understand and avoid escalation.
Regarding dealing with the situation where people have left evacuation centers and some have been forced to stay at gas stations, Mr. Bhumtham stated that this is the responsibility of the government, military, and relevant agencies to clarify and understand the situation. He added that while we cannot prevent anyone from worrying, we must strive to understand the situation and ensure everyone understands the situation. He also believes that all parties must work together to resolve the issue as best they can.
Regarding progress on the meeting to consider dissolving the CCSA, which will take place next week, Mr. Phumtham stated that, given the ongoing discussions, it is important to reassess the situation. Various issues remain, and tactical management has not yet been adjusted, so the agency cannot be immediately dissolved.
Mr. Bhumtham also addressed the appointment of advisors to the NCPO, insisting that the appointments of the Cabinet Secretary, the Secretary-General of the National Security Council, and the Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB) were nothing to do with the appointments. He urged reporters to ask Deputy Defense Minister Gen. Nattapol Nakphanit, who stated that he had not removed anyone's name and that he had approved the appointments during his time as Defense Minister. He emphasized that the appointments of such advisors did not pose any problems for the government.