It reinstated the 1932 constitution, which effectively eliminated the Senate, established a unicameral legislature composed equally of elected and government-appointed members, and allowed serving military officers to supplement their commands with important ministerial portfolios.

Throughout 1950 and the following year, the civilians and military men bickered over spoils and offices, and, despite its monopoly on the use of force, the Coup Group lost some political battles.

Because the 1949 constitution drafted by the palace-backed Democrats barred active government officials—including military and police officers—from the cabinet, the Coup Group found it objectionable.

In August and October 1951 the powerful police chief, Phao Siyanon, travelled to Switzerland to persuade the young King Bhumibol to accept a constitution more amenable to the military.

Therefore, that evening, while the king was en route from Singapore to Bangkok,[4] they announced the dissolution of parliament, reinstatement of the 1932 constitution, and formation of a provisional government.

Phao's own appointment as deputy minister of the interior gave him effective control over this politically powerful ministry that allowed him to ruthlessly eliminate parliamentary opposition.