World

Thailand's military ruler dons suit and tie, a makeover signaling his expected role change

Associated Press
Published | Updated

National Council for Peace and Order Chairman Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha talks to members of the National Legislative Assembly at the Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand Monday, Aug. 18, 2014. National Legislative Assembly members are meeting to deliberate the draft of the budget bill for 2015. (AP Photo) (The Associated Press)

National Council for Peace and Order Chairman Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha speaks to members of the National Legislative Assembly at the Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand Monday, Aug. 18, 2014. National Legislative Assembly members are meeting to deliberate the draft of the budget bill for 2015. (AP Photo) (The Associated Press)

When Thailand's military ruler appears in public, he usually is seen in full military regalia.

On Monday, addressing the nation's junta-appointed legislature to propose next year's budget, Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha showed up in markedly different attire — a business-like dark blue suit with a sky blue tie.

The civilian garb is symbolic of an impending change for Thailand's powerful leader, who is due to retire from the armed forces in September.

Later this week, the legislature is expected to name Prayuth the country's new prime minister, its first since a democratically elected government was overthrown in a May 22 coup.