Phuket: Suradech Yasawat emphasizes the need for "central police" intervention to tackle corruption in Phuket by balancing local authority power and cracking down on civil servant bribery.
According to Thai News Agency, Suradech criticized the recent transfers of the governor and deputy governors, arguing that these measures only serve to placate public dissatisfaction and fail to address underlying issues. He proposed deploying central police forces to tackle the problem effectively and suggested abolishing the free visa program, which he believes enables nominee operations and illicit capital to compete with Thai businesses. Suradech asserted that tourism and international relations would remain unaffected, as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs could manage any resulting concerns through diplomatic discussions.
Mr. Suradech Yasawat, a former deputy leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, former MP, and Senator, voiced concerns about the recent administrative changes in Phuket. He described the transfer of the Phuket Governor and Deputy Governors as superficial solutions that do not address the core issues. Suradech noted that relocating the deputy governors to other provinces, such as Nakhon Si Thammarat and Songkhla, was not a punitive measure, as these provinces offer comparable economic benefits. He highlighted that the transfer of the governor to a Deputy Permanent Secretary role in the Ministry of Interior further fueled speculations of coercion, suggesting that the deputy governors' dissatisfaction stemmed from the previous governor's successful tenure. Suradech questioned why the deputy governors were not permitted to continue their efforts to resolve the ongoing conflicts.
He stressed the importance of a systemic approach in addressing corruption, advocating for checks and balances within provincial government agencies. Suradech insisted that central police forces, like the Crime Suppression Division and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), should be involved in gathering information and conducting investigations. This involvement would deter local police and officials from accepting bribes and foster accountability. Suradech also emphasized the need for stringent enforcement of the Foreign Business Act to reduce nominee practices and called for exemplary punishment of law violators.
Suradech addressed the implications of the free visa program amidst global conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine situation, which has led to an influx of tourists seeking refuge or business opportunities in Thailand. He argued that the visa-free policy is unnecessary and poses security risks, suggesting its cancellation to enable thorough screening by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This measure would help prevent individuals involved in illicit activities from entering Thailand and competing with Thai citizens for jobs. Suradech pointed out the presence of foreign groups, such as Chinese and Israeli networks, who engage in illegal activities and urged action to prevent further encroachment on Thai economic opportunities.
He acknowledged concerns about the potential impact on tourism but insisted that attracting quality tourists who contribute positively to the economy should be the focus. Suradech recommended that embassies screen tourists to ensure they are not seeking illegal business opportunities. He also called for international dialogue to assess the necessity of revoking the visa-free measure, emphasizing that national security should be a priority. Suradech urged the Prime Minister and government to address these issues seriously and implement concrete solutions that would lead to a significant reduction in problems, reassuring the public of effective governance.