Dec. 12 (UPI) -- Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dissolved parliament on Friday, triggering fresh elections just three months after his minority government replaced a government headed by Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Thailand’s Parliament was dissolved Friday for new elections early next year as the country engaged in deadly fighting with Cambodia. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dissolved the House of Representatives after getting approval from King Maha Vajiralongkorn, whose endorsement became effective Friday with its publication in the Royal Gazette.

Thailand's prime minister announced he was dissolving parliament and "returning power to the people" as he moved to head off a no-confidence vote. A general election must be held between 45 and 60 days.

Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn has endorsed a decree to dissolve parliament, clearing the way for early elections to be held in 45 to 60 days, according to the Royal Gazette.