Dual defence post aims at coherent administration : PM
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Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra said Monday that her concurrent post as defence minister will help speed up decisionmaking and policy implementation, and does not constitute interference in national security affairs.
Yingluck, who assumed 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 Chanocha is due to retire in October next year amid widespread speculation that he might be moved out of the army's top position.
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.
Yingluck ruled out reports that Chalerm Yubamrung was upset with his transfer from deputy prime minister to head the Labour Ministry, saying that Chalerm, with his knowledge of law, will work towards labour integration in Southeast Asia.
Teerat Ratansevi, spokesman of the PM’s Office, said new cabinet members are enthusiastic at fighting against corruption to “create a new era of ethical government to be recognised internationally.”
The prime minister has asked for public participation in suppressing corruption in the country, he said.
