Phuket: The abrupt removal of Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn, popularly known as "Governor Sembei," has ignited political controversy, with opposition parties alleging that recent administrative changes are mere delaying tactics. The Cabinet recently approved a reshuffle that transferred Governor Sembei to the role of Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, appointing Deputy Permanent Secretary Chotinrin Kerdsum as his successor.
According to Thai News Agency, this decision is part of a broader crackdown on corruption and mafia activities in Phuket. The Ministry of Interior has already dismissed two deputy governors for failing to address local influential figures effectively. Prior to the Cabinet's decision, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul reportedly met with Bhumjaithai Party ministers to discuss the negligence of several officials in tackling illegal activities, resulting in the transfer of five deputy governors in the southern region.
Opposition voices, particularly the People's Party (PP), have criticized the recent administrative moves. Ms. Phakamon Nunanan, a party-list MP, suggested that the reassignment of the "Deputy Seafood" was a strategic maneuver to delay action due to his influential connections within the Department of Provincial Administration. She has called on Mr. Anutin to take decisive steps and urged him to appear before the Committee on Political Development to clarify issues related to the so-called "blue regime."
Amid these political developments, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Suchart Chomklin, has announced progress in tackling illegal encroachment by investors on forest land near Choeng Thale municipality. He emphasized the government's firm stance, as directed by the Prime Minister, against any leniency towards illegal activities. A joint task force is being prepared to reclaim public beaches such as Nui Beach and Sirinat National Park for public use, following final legal verdicts. Suchart has vowed to dismantle any mafia presence threatening local communities.
The anti-corruption efforts have also reached the parliamentary level, with Mr. Asaphol Santraiphop, Chairman of the House Committee on Prevention and Suppression of Corruption, planning a visit to Phuket. The committee aims to investigate the alleged encroachment of a national forest reserve at "Freedom Beach" by investors, with the involvement of local MPs and representatives. The investigation seeks to gather substantial evidence for submission to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) to ensure comprehensive legal action against corrupt officials.