Thaksin's brother-in-law resigns as top labour official

BANGKOK: -- Somchai Wongsawat, a brother-in-law of ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Friday resigned as permanent secretary for Labour Ministry.

-- The Nation 2006-09-22

Somchai Wongsawat quits as permanent-secretary for labour

Somchai Wongsawat (สมชาย วงศ์สวัสดิ์), brother-in-law of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, resigned as labour permanent-secretary yesterday.

Deputy labour permanent-secretary Surin Jirawisit (สุรินทร์ จิระวิสิทธิ์) said the resignation came as a surprise as Mr. Somchai had never mentioned before that he would step down.

Mr. Somchai’s duties will be carried out by his deputies, Mr. Surin said.

Mr. Somchai, who used to be justice permanent-secretary, is husband of Yaowapa Wongsawat (เยาวภา วงศ์สวัสดิ์), a younger sister of Pol. Lt. Col. Thaksin and former Thai Rak Thai MP.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 23 September 2006