512. Telegram From the Embassy in Thailand to the Department of State1
1898. Thanat Khoman told me today that he had seen Sarit this morning and that he was actively carrying on business from his bed. In response to my question he said he did not think there was any question but that Sarit would be appointed Prime Minister under constitution promulgated last night. (Details constitution by subsequent telegram.)2 Thanat expected constituent assembly would be appointed in next few days and formation of government would be completed by middle next week. Said looked as if Chote would get Ministry of Finance. Did not know whether Chote would give up his position as Governor Bank of Thailand or attempt hold both positions concurrently. Said Sarit aware of opposition in Thailand to Wichit and his low esteem Bangkok Diplomatic Corps. Therefore would probably not give him cabinet post but possibly he would be made “executive secretary” of “executive office of Prime Minister” established by order issued together with constitution. Appears this will be a key position under new set-up. According to Thanat Chote assisted in drafting order establishing office, patterning it after his knowledge of US President’s executive office. Wichit would be “the Sherman Adams” of Thailand. Thanat showed no enthusiasm for having Wichit in this position.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 792.03/1–2959. Secret; Limit Distribution.↩
- Reference is to telegram 1901 from Bangkok, January 29, which, in addition to outlining in some detail the provisions of the new Constitution, contained Ambassador Johnson’s observation that the Constitution allowed Sarit to operate as he had for the past 3 months: “Note that extraordinary orders or actions need not receive approval of Assembly.” (Ibid., 792.03/1–2959)↩