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Published on October 4, 2007

This is the main change to the Cabinet line-up, which sees no new faces added.

Surayud replaces Aree Wongsearaya, who resigned last week over a shareholding controversy.

Science and Technology Minister Yongyuth Yuthavong will double as natural resource and environment minister, replacing Kasem Snidvongs, who stepped down on Monday following shareholding allegations.

Yongyuth assumed his new post automatically.

Deputy Prime Minister Kosit Panpiemras is now caretaker information and communication technology minister replacing Sitthichai Pookaiyaudom, who stepped down following the allegations that his company shareholding exceeded the 5-per-cent cap.

Former Council for National Security chairman General Sonthi Boonyaratglin was royally appointed a day earlier as deputy prime minister in charge of security affairs.

Surayud said he and Sonthi would have an audience with His Majesty later this week for a swearing-in ceremony, before officially assuming their new posts.

Meanwhile, Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva said Sonthi must prove himself in his role of the security chief.

Abhisit is concerned about Surayud doubling as interior minister.

"I think the public has no doubt about his neutrality and determination to do the right thing, but as prime minister he has too much work to do already," he said.

There are no replacements for former deputy foreign minister Sawanit Kongsiri and former deputy commerce minister Oranuj Osatananda, who also quit following shareholding allegations.

The Nation