King endorses Sonthi as deputy PM

His Majesty the King royally endorsed Gen Sonthi Boonyaratkalin as deputy prime minister overseeing national security.

Gen Sonthi's appointment is effective on October 1.

He just stepped down from chairman of the Council for National Security on Monday, saying his mission has already been accomplished. He retired as army chief on Sunday.

Meanwhile, cabinet resolved to have Deputy Prime Minister Kosit Panpiemras take Information and Communications Technology Minister post. PM's Office Minister Dhipavadee Meksawan will take charge if Mr Kosit is not available.

Gen. Sonthi's appointment came after five ministers tendered their resignations over the controversial issue of excessive shareholdings in private companies, as disclosed by the National Counter Corruption Commission (NCCC).

The Cabinet members who resigned were Deputy Foreign Minister Sawanit Kongsiri, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Kasem Snitvongs na Ayutthaya, Interior Minister Aree Wongarya, Information and Communication Technology Minister Sitthichai Pookaiyaudom and Deputy Commerce Minister Oranuj Osathananda.

Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont said after the announcement of HM the King's endorsement that he has just submitted another reshuffle list to HM the King, adding that he will take the Interior Minister post himself.

HM the King is expected to endorse the list on Wednesday.