BANGKOK (AP) — 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 the upcoming fiscal 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.

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