Deputy PM Korbsak resigns, opens way for Cabinet reshuffle

BANGKOK, Jan 11 (TNA) - Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister in charge of economic affairs Korbsak Sabhavasu on Monday submitted his letter of resignation to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to open the way for a minor cabinet reshuffle following the resignations of the public health minister and his deputy.

Mr Korbsak's letter becomes effective Monday. It is understood that he will become the premier's secretary-general, which position has been vacant since former secretary-general Niphon Promphan resigned in early October.

Meanwhile, Mr Korbsak will be succeeded at deputy prime minister by Trairong Suwankiri, a deputy leader and senior MP of the ruling Democrat Party.

The prime minister earlier said that a minor Cabinet reshuffle was expected in the New Year following the resignation of Public Health Minister Witthaya Kaewparadai on December 29 to take responsibility for the mismanagement of ministry projects after a government committee probe alleged corruption in the ministry's Bt86 billion budget for procurement under the Thai Khemkhaeng (Strong Thailand) stimulus package.

Deputy Public Health Minister Manit Nop-amornbodi announced his resignation on Sunday following government pressure and a public outcry.

Mr Korbsak himself earlier resigned from the chairman of the Community Sufficiency Economy Project after irregularities in implementing the projects were found to allow the government a free hand to investigate the allegations.

According to the investigation report, Mr Korbsak was not involved in the scandal.

Four members of the Democrat Party, including two city councillors, were expelled from the party for their involvement in alleged graft. (TNA)