Thailand's military chief and coup leader General Prayuth Chan-ocha says the king has formally endorsed his position as head of the military council that will run the country.
In a televised press briefing Monday, the general also said that he would have no choice but to use force if political protests flare up again. He said he aims for an election as soon as possible, but gave no timeframe for a vote.
Prayuth abruptly cut the news briefing short when a reporter asked a question.
The announcement came a day after military leaders warned protesters any further rallies against its coup will not be tolerated. The warning came after a series of clashes between soldiers and protesters across the country on Sunday.
Army officials said protesters would be arrested, jailed and tried in military court.