Privy Council president Prem Tinsulanonda on Thursday expressed support for the government of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and stressed that it has helped improve the lives of Thai people.
Gen Prem made his remarks when Gen Prayut led cabinet ministers and chiefs of the armed forces and the police to wish him a happy birthday ahead of his 97th birthday anniversary on Saturday.
"I think that Thai people understand what Tu [his nickname] does... I think that Thai people understand that the government is working to save people from poverty and have sufficiency. They will understand that you are not doing it for your own honour or reputation," Gen Prem said at his Si Sao Thewes residence in Bangkok.
Gen Prem also referred to his lasting friendship with Gen Prayut and Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, saying that this friendship would ensure the smooth working of the government.
"I would like Tu to pay attention to remaining determined to work for the nation. Do not get an unnecessary headache over people's remarks," Gen Prem said.
Gen Prayut spent five minutes verbally extending his best wishes to Gen Prem. He wished Gen Prem good health and said he was a good example of love for the nation, and he would follow the path of Gen Prem and free the nation of internal conflict.