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 "It's a pity. Khun Oranuj is a capable woman," he said.

 Meanwhile, Deputy Finance Minister Sommai Phasee also foresaw no negative impact from the resignation of two economic ministers - Oranuj and ICT Minister Sitthichai Pokaiya-udom.

 "Overall, this should not affect the economy much as the government's term will end soon. However, it could cause some disruptions to the projects that these ministers are handling," he said.

 Sitthichai has no deputy while Oranuj's responsibility would be transferred to Commerce Minister Krirk-krai Jirapaet. Both resignation is expected to take effect on October 1.

 Krirk-krai said on Monday that he would seek consultation with Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont over the proposal to appoint Karun Kittisataporn, permanent secretary of commerce, as Oranuj's successor.

 He noted that Oranuj consulted him over a phone call on her growing discomfort. He also expressed his admiration for her decision.

 Both ministers seek to leave the government to diffuse criticisms that ministers should not hold over 5 per cent stakes in any business venture, under the year-2000 graft law though the Constitution provides a provisional clause for such holding.

- The Nation