Aree reverses field, resigns

Interior Minister Aree Wongarya finally bowed to the inevitable on Wednesday, resigning his office after a tumultuous week during which he insisted he never would quit despite strong public criticism.

Speaking at a press conference at his home in the Ladprao area of Bangkok, Mr Aree told reporters he was willing to show responsibility for a case in which he reportedly violated the constitution by holding more than a 5 per cent stake in private firms.

Mr Aree admitted he did hold shares in excess of the acceptable amount but said the Department of Local Administration had bought shares of Kwarn Paisal Company, a local manufacturer of canned food products without his knowledge.

Mr Aree had allegedly spoken to Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont about his decision to step down. He told reporters his resignation would be made official once the prime minister returns home.

Mr Aree is the last of the three ministers implicated in this case. Information Communications and Technology minister Sittichai Pookaiyaudom was the first to step down, and the only one to show his spirit without public pressure.

Deputy Commerce minister Oranuj Osathananda followed suit on Sunday after strong criticism followed her initial statement that she had no intention of quitting.