Phuket: The government has firmly rejected claims made by the shadow cabinet about the establishment of a "blue network" in Phuket, asserting that the recent transfer of the governor was made in the best interest of the local populace.
According to Thai News Agency, Ploy Talay, the deputy government spokesperson, refuted allegations of a shadow cabinet, stressing that significant progress in addressing Phuket's issues is being achieved. She confirmed the government's commitment to ongoing efforts to resolve these challenges, rejecting any notion of a "blue" regime and emphasizing that all actions are directed towards solving the problems faced by the citizens.
Ms. Ploytalay Laksmisangchan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, addressed the situation concerning the "Shadow Cabinet." During a meeting, Mr. Chalermpong Saengdee, a Member of Parliament from Phuket representing the People's Party, highlighted concerns regarding the transfer of civil servants in Phuket and the visit of the Minister of Interior. He suggested that the issue was not limited to the transfer of the governor, deputy governor, and Police Region 8 commander, but indicated a deeper "blue regime" attempting to embed itself within the area, pointing to a structural problem involving influential figures entrenched in the local system.
Ms. Ploytalay acknowledged the persistent and longstanding problems in Phuket Province related to influential figures. She elaborated that the government, led by Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, is dedicated to effectively resolving these issues. This is evident from the coordinated efforts of various relevant agencies, inspired by the Prime Minister's directives. Recently, the Royal Thai Police conducted operations in Phuket Province, uncovering 10 companies acting as nominees and four plots of land valued at approximately 116 million baht. The court issued arrest warrants for 12 foreigners and 13 individuals and companies involved with the land. Additionally, 39 companies with foreign-majority ownership are implicated in the seizure of 52 plots of land, valued at approximately 115 million baht. The court approved 29 search warrants, covering 56 plots totaling 15 rai and 13 square wah, valued at approximately 231 million baht.
The government's commitment to addressing these issues is further demonstrated by the frequent visits of both the Prime Minister and the Deputy Minister of Interior to the area. These visits are aimed at implementing solutions, not for mere appearances. The government assures that any illegal activities identified through investigation will be met with strict legal action, without exception. The transfer of the governor is portrayed as a strategic decision to enhance problem-solving and serve the people of Phuket, rather than any political agenda. Ms. Ploytalay reiterated that there is no "blue regime," as alleged by the People's Party for political motives. The government invites anyone with information on bribery or mafia activities to come forward, promising full legal action against any wrongdoers.