PM 'set to unveil new Cabinet this month'

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej will probably want to unveil his new Cabinet line-up this month, Government House sources said yesterday.

"Samak is pinning his hopes on the Cabinet reshuffle to restore confidence in his leadership," a source said.

The new Cabinet should be finalised before the start of the 41st Asean Ministerial Meeting in Singapore next Saturday, because the new foreign minister is expected to attend the ceremony for Thailand to accept the revolving chairmanship of the regional grouping.

Outsiders likely to join the government include veteran banker Olarn Chaipravat for a seat on the economic team and retired diplomat Vikrom Kumpairoj as foreign minister.

Since the Supreme Court has scheduled July 28 to decide on whether to launch a judicial review of graft charges in the lottery case, Samak might not make any move until the ruling, the source said.

Three Cabinet members are linked to that case and might be suspended from duty during the trial. They are Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee, Labour Minister Uraiwan Thienthong and Deputy Transport Minister Anurak Jureemas.

Chart Thai Party leader Banharn Silapa-archa has reportedly been planning to replace Anurak, who was appointed under his party's quota. Banharn will likely nominate his only son and MP, Warawut, who has just turned 35, the minimum age for ministerial appointment.

Party sources said Banharn might demand a switch of portfolios under his party's quota.

The party has been allocated agriculture and tourism, which are closely linked to the economic team under the supervision of the People Power Party.

Banharn is expected to trade one of the portfolios for another in social affairs, such as the Culture, Education or Social Development and Human Security Ministry.

Pracharat Party leader Snoh Thienthong is tipped to take over the labour portfolio from his wife, Uraiwan.

Outgoing Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama said his successor would definitely be appointed in time for the meeting in Singapore.

The new minister should be an experienced hand in foreign affairs to ensure a smooth transition, he said, adding that contenders included veteran diplomats and lawmakers within the main coalition party.