Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, has reiterated that the recent appointments within the Interior Ministry will adhere to a set of three guiding principles: restoring fairness, utilizing the right people for the appropriate roles, and upholding morality. These principles are set to guide the appointment of 45 officials within the ministry.
According to Thai News Agency, Siripong Angkasakulkiat, the Prime Minister’s Office Spokesperson, disclosed that these appointments are part of a routine cycle prompted by retirements and the transition of government. The enunciated principles aim to rectify any perceived injustices from previous appointments, ensuring that each position is filled by individuals best suited for the tasks, while maintaining moral standards.
The appointments are being scrutinized as they coincide with Anutin’s return to the Minister of Interior position, raising speculation about possible retaliatory adjustments. Under previous Interior Minister Bhumtham Wechayachai, significant transfers were made between groups known as the Red Lions and the Black Lions.
Mr. Phonpoj Penpas, who previously sought a transfer to deputy permanent secretary to avoid allegations related to the Khao Kradong land case, has been reinstated as Director-General of the Department of Lands. This reshuffling led to Mr. Khajornkiat Rakphanitchamani, appointed during Mr. Phumtham’s tenure, being reassigned as Governor of Khon Kaen.
Additionally, Mr. Narucha Khosasivilai is now Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, moving from his prior role as Inspector General. This change resulted in Governor Nirat Phongsitthaworn taking over as Governor of Phuket.
Other notable changes include Mr. Phasakon Boonyalak, former Governor of Rayong, who has been appointed Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry. Mr. Thiraphat Kachmat, previously Governor of Uthai Thani Province, is now Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Mr. Siam Sirimongkol has returned as Director-General of the Community Development Department after a brief reassignment.
The reshuffling also sees Police Lieutenant Colonel Phobchanok Chalanukroh reinstated as Governor of Phetchaburi, with Mr. Thiratham Suphawibunphon stepping in as Director-General of the Department of Local Administration. In Ubon Ratchathani, Mr. Narong Thepsena assumes the governorship after previously exposing irregularities in the selection process for a senator in Amnat Charoen Province.