Kim makes relative military chief
SEOUL: Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) leader Kim Jong-il put to rest this week any doubt about whom he sees as his second in command when he elevated his brother-in-law Jang Song-taek to a powerful military post, analysts said on Friday.
Kim, 67, was re-elected to his leadership post at parliament on Thursday. By elevating Jang, 63, to DPRK's seat of power called the National Defense Commission, Kim has set him up as a kingmaker.
Jang, an economic specialist considered pragmatic and worldly, is seen as the most likely choice to take over should Kim suddenly pass away. He could also mentor one of Kim's three known sons if he decides to groom them for succession.
Jang joins a largely ageing panel Kim heads. He is the youngest member of the commission, expanded to 13 men at the meeting of the Supreme People's Assembly.
Reuters
(China Daily 04/11/2009 page11)
