Thai junta leader stacks Cabinet with military men

BANGKOK (AP) — The general who transitioned from Thailand’s junta leader to prime minister has awarded key Cabinet posts to his trusted allies from the armed forces, the latest in a series of moves that critics say will prolong the military’s grip on power.

Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha’s government lineup, announced Sunday after being approved by the king, includes 11 active or retired senior military officials with no political experience who will serve as the ministers of justice, education, defense, transport, commerce and foreign affairs, among other posts.