(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-01-29 13:40

BANGKOK - The King of Thailand endorsed leader of People Power Party (PPP) Samak Sundaravej as Thailand's 25th prime minister, PPP spokesman Kudep Saikrachang said on Tuesday.

Samak Sundaravej answers media questions after arriving at parliament in Bangkok January 28, 2008. [Agencies]

The royal endorsement came after House of Representatives elected the former Bangkok governor on Monday to lead the new government by 310 to 163 votes.

Samak easily beat Democrat party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva, who was proposed as a candidate by the Democrats, the only opposition party.

Kudep said that party members will congratulate Samak at his residence on Tuesday afternoon.

Earlier, Samak vowed to name his new cabinet once the King endorses him as the country's next prime minister.

"From now on, I have many more responsibilities on my shoulders. It won't be fun but I have to accept them," said Samak.

Samak said that the cabinet lineup could be completed before February. 7.