Bangkok: Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, has confirmed the proposal to transfer Ministry of Interior officials to the Cabinet. These transfers are said to be unrelated to the former Minister of Interior, focusing instead on operational efficiency following a period where many policies were stalled. Phumtham reiterated the ministry’s stance of having no allegiance to any particular faction, while pledging to closely monitor performance, identifying those engaged in their duties versus those who are not, with plans to revamp operations within three months.
According to Thai News Agency, Phumtham addressed the transfer of civil servants within the Ministry of Interior, confirming that the proposal would be brought to the Cabinet meeting today. He emphasized the need for Cabinet approval due to concerns involving permanent secretaries, directors-general, and governors. Phumtham clarified that the transfers aim to enhance work efficiency, with a focus on performance indicators to be established within three months. He cited recent operations, such as ordering a raid on a gambling den in Sai Mai and coordinating with the BMA to inspect entertainment venues in Sukhumvit, as examples of ongoing initiatives.
Phumtham dismissed any speculation about transferring officials close to the former Interior Minister, stating that decisions are based on work performance, particularly in drug suppression efforts. He maintained that the Interior Ministry’s operations are devoid of political influence, focusing solely on functionality.
In response to inquiries about the potential transfer of officials from Buriram, Phumtham clarified that such decisions are work-related rather than politically motivated. He emphasized that the objective is to identify and rectify operational issues, citing the SEAL STOP SAFE policy as a guiding framework. Phumtham assured that there would be no advance scheduling for visits, allowing for spontaneous inspections and immediate action on discovered issues.
Regarding the potential transfer of the current Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Phumtham reiterated that there are no predetermined targets for transfers. Instead, actions will be based on thorough evaluations of work processes and problem areas, with immediate interventions where necessary.
Phumtham addressed rumors concerning the possible transfer of the Chiang Mai governor to the Department of Provincial Administration, stating that such decisions should await Cabinet approval. He also addressed concerns about the morale of civil servants due to recent transfers, citing the need to address evident issues, such as the shortage of ID cards in Buriram Province, as justifications for these actions.
In response to observations about the Chiang Mai governor’s political affiliations, Phumtham highlighted the importance of assessing work performance in response to crises, such as the recent floods. He assured that evaluations would be comprehensive, covering all regions, and emphasized that the ongoing transfers are not a prelude to upcoming elections, but rather a step towards improving governmental operations.