A key figure in last year’s coup in Thailand was appointed the country’s new army commander on Wednesday, according to an official announcement on local television. Gen Anupong Paochinda will become army chief at the end of September, taking over from retiring Gen. Sonthi Boonyaratglin. News of the appointment — which was endorsed by King Bhumibol Adulyadej — was broadcast on several Thai TV channels. Anupong, who is currently deputy army commander, was one of the leaders behind the Sept. 19, 2006, coup that ousted Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who had faced monthlong demonstrations accusing him of corruption and abuse of power. Full Story