BANGKOK, July 1 – Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra said today that her concurrent post as defence minister will help speed decision-making and policy implementation, and is not an interference in national security affairs.
Ms Yingluck, who holds the defence portfolio in the cabinet reshuffle, which took effect on Sunday, said her direct supervision of the Defence Ministry will enable the government to support the army.
It has nothing to do with the coming reshuffle in the army, she said.
The annual reshuffle of the three armed forces is scheduled for October 1. Army chief Prayuth Chan-ocha is due to retire in October next year amid widespread speculations that he might be moved out of the army’s top position.
It has been proven that the government and the army have fully performed their duties in the past two years, the premier said.
Regarding the appointment of Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisarn as deputy prime minister and commerce minister, she said he was handpicked for his capability to understand every dimension of the rice pledging scheme and he would also supervise the Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives Ministry.
He will have a clear picture of the overall commercial and agricultural spectrums, she said.
Ms Yingluck ruled out reports that Chalerm Yubamrung was upset with his transfer from deputy prime minister to head the Labour Ministry, saying Mr Chalerm, with his knowledge in law, will work towards labour integration in Southeast Asia.
Teerat Ratansevi, spokesman of the PM’s Office, said new cabinet members are enthusiastic in fighting against corruption to “create a new era of ethical government to be recognised internationally.”
The prime minster has asked for public participation in jointly suppressing corruption in the country, he said.
