Unofficial translation

Statement of Ms. Yingluck Shinawatra
Prime Minister
18 December 2013

         As I already stated that I must remain on duty as Prime Minister until the elections are completed and a Prime Minister is newly elected to continue my duties. I would like to explain the reasons once again as follows:

        1. In discharging its duties, the Cabinet must adhere to the principle of collective responsibility in the administration of state affairs. In view of the Royal Decree Dissolving the House of Representatives, the responsibility of the Cabinet to discharge its duties subsists until a new Cabinet is sworn in so as to provide continuity in the administration of state affairs pursuant to Articles 171 and 181 of the Constitution.
         2. That I, as Prime Minister, submitted for Royal Assent the dissolving of the House of Representatives, once the Royal Decree is in effect, I consider it my duty to abide by such Royal Command to the fullest extent of my capabilities, which is to cooperate with the Election Commission in holding the elections as scheduled on 2 February 2014 in a transparent, free and fair manner with the utmost orderliness.
          3. Having stated this does not mean that I refuse to resign or that I am attached to my position. I am willing to listen to the voice of the people, both the majority and the minority, but this must be in accordance with the bounds of the democratic regime of government with the King as Head of State and under the rule of law.

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News Division
Department of Information