Monday, August 22, 2011

Thai Defence Minister vows only minor changes to military reshuffle

Aug 22, 2011
(The Nation/ANN)

Bangkok (The Nation/ANN) - Thailand's Defence Minister Yuthasak Sasiprapha has promised minimal changes to the military reshuffle list, which has been completed by the armed forces, with the highlight being the collective ascension of Army chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha's classmates.

According to informed sources, a potential source of conflict is the Thai defence permanent secretary position, as powerful groups have pushed for their own favourites.

The list was submitted to Thai Supreme Commander Songkitti Jaggabatara last week and is now in the hands of Yuthasak. "General Yuthasak said he wanted to give everyone the freest hand possible, but might request changes to certain positions in accordance with the government's reconciliation policy," one of the sources said.

The sources claimed Prayuth's Army reshuffle list was compiled based on his assumption that General Prawit Wongsuwan would return as defence minister of Thailand. The list seeks to promote many of his classmates and the "eastern tigers" to key positions. Prayuth's brother, Maj-General Preecha Chan-ocha, was also proposed for a big promotion in what was seen as a launching pad for him to take the post of 3rd Army region commander next year.

Prayuth's close friend Dapong Rattanasuwan was proposed for promotion from Army chief of staff to deputy Army chief in one of the key moves that will see Prayuth's confidantes make a collective rise.

Prawit, Yuthasak and Prayuth are also likely to face off over who will be the new Thai defence permanent secretary. Respectively, the three powerful men back General Kanit Sapitak, chief adviser for defence; General Wittawat Ratchatanan, deputy defence permanent secretary; and General Sakon Sajjanit, head of the Secretariat Department of Thailand.

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