Thailand´s coup leader was formally endorsed as prime minister by the nation´s revered king earlier today, in a step towards forming a government to oversee sweeping reforms in the politically turbulent kingdom.
Army chief General Prayut Chan-O-Cha, 60, who booted out an elected government in a bloodless power grab on May 22, was chosen uncontested as premier last week by a national assembly made up mainly of military figures. In a brief but elaborate ceremony to receive the royal command, Prayut — wearing a white official uniform — knelt and bowed in front of large portrait of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
“His majesty the king has appointed me Prime Minister. I am extremely grateful… this is a great honour for me and my family,” Prayut said after the ceremony.
“I will work with honesty and for the benefit of people and the nation,” he added.
The top general, who was endorsed as premier on Sunday but was officially given the royal command a day later, will also remain head of the junta as the military appears to tighten its grip on power.
