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BANGKOK - THAILAND'S new Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej launched his new weekly television show Sunday, using state-run television and radio for an hour of off-the-cuff commentary to the public.
The programme, called 'Samak Talks,' follows a tradition created by deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who backed Mr Samak's rise to the head of government in December elections.
'This programme will serve as a channel for me as prime minister to directly tell you the news and to clarify any misunderstanding,' he said.
'We will talk like old acquaintances, beginning with what I have done, and following with the work of each ministry.'
In his first programme, Mr Samak spent most the show defending his plans to expand Bangkok's mass transit system and to improve rail service around the country.
He also took questions from viewers.
Mr Samak, 72, is a veteran politician beloved by some for his straight-talking style, but disliked by others for an attitude seen as overly gruff in a society that prizes gentle manners.
Although he is known for his harsh outbursts against Thai media, he has also shrewdly used the media to advance his political career.
After he was elected Bangkok's governor in 2000, he started a cooking programme that he continued until last year.
He also hosted a daily political talk show that defended Mr Thaksin during protests against alleged corruption by his government.
The show was yanked off the air after the military toppled Mr Thaksin in September 2006.
Mr Samak has also penned columns for several Thai newspapers. -- AFP
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