BANGKOK: Thailand’s coup leader and newly appointed premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha yesterday received royal endorsement for a cabinet stacked with soldiers, as the military extended its reach into the kingdom’s politics.
Nearly a third of the 32-strong cabinet are senior military officers. Among them are Prayut’s close allies and key players in the recent years of political turbulence, including generals involved in the bloody 2010 crackdown on ‘Red Shirt’ activists.
Former and serving generals will head the defence, justice, foreign affairs and commerce ministries, while an air marshal will take the top post at the transport department.
The civilian portion of the cabinet includes longstanding allies of the military, such as Sommai Pasri who returns to lead the finance ministry.
“His majesty has endorsed the cabinet members,” put forward by Prayut, according to a royal decree released late yesterday.
Last week revered but ailing King Bhumibol Adulyadej, 86, formally endorsed Prayut as premier.
Prayut’s predecessor as army chief, General Anupong Paochinda, was appointed interior minister – responsible for internal security. — AFP