Against public expectations, Sonthi was promoted to Army Commander in October 2005. Sonthi's fast rise was backed by retired armed forces Supreme Commander General Surayud Chulanont (with whom he had served while leading the Special Warfare Command and Privy Council President General Prem Tinsulanonda).
Sonthi was unexpectedly elevated to Army Commander in October 2005.  General Surayud Chulanont, a retired armed forces Supreme Commander and former colleague of Sonthi's from their time leading the Special Warfare Command and Privy Council President General Prem Tinsulanonda, supported his rapid ascent.