Section 44 of the interim charter, which gives the National Council for Peace and Order power over the interim government, will be enforced “if necessary,” Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha Tuesday.
Gen Prayut made the remark at a cabinet meeting after the People's Democratic Reform Committee and the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship locked horns over an impeachment request against former Senate speaker Nikhom Wairatpanich and ex-House speaker Somsak Kiatsuranon.
The PDRC reportedly to pressure the National Legislative Assembly into voting to accept the impeachment petition for consideration, prompting the red-shirt UDD to threaten a counter-protest.
Gen Prayut had stressed that all security agencies closely monitor movements of all political groups and revealed measures to be taken if peace and order are breached by any political camp.
The government would try to reach an agreement with them to refrain from holding political activities, as officials are trying to create order in the country, deputy government spokesman Sansern Kaewkamnerd quoted him as saying.
If that fails, the junta would enforce regular or martial laws, with penalties ranging from light to heavy, he said. If necessary, Gen Prayut added, section 44 of the interim charter may have to be used by security officers in order to restore peace and move the country forward.
Section 44 authorises the NCPO chief to exercise the powers of the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government to promote reform and unity, and to prevent and suppress threats to national security, the royal institution, and the economy. The actions and orders of the NCPO leader are deemed legal and constitutional.