BANGKOK (AP) — The general who transitioned from Thailand’s junta leader to prime minister has awarded top posts in his Cabinet to senior military officials, in the latest move that critics say will prolong the military’s grip on power.
Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha’s government lineup was announced Sunday.
It includes 11 career military men with no political experience, seven of them generals, who will serve as the ministers of justice, education, defense, transport, commerce and foreign affairs, among other posts.
Prayuth also named 21 civilians to the Cabinet, including former Finance Minister Pridiyathorn Devakula, who will serve as a deputy prime minister.
Prayuth led the overthrow of an elected government on May 22 and says new elections will not be held until at least next year so the military can oversee sweeping political reforms.
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