Bangkok: Suriya Jungrungruangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has categorically denied allegations of purging a faction led by Captain Thamanat Phromphao amid a recent cabinet reshuffle. Suriya emphasized his extensive ministerial experience, having served under five different prime ministers without issues related to the transfer of civil servants.
According to Thai News Agency, Suriya addressed concerns raised by Captain Thamanat, the MP for Phayao and leader of the Kla Tham Party, regarding the transfer of civil servants within the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. Thamanat criticized these transfers, suggesting they were influenced more by non-compliance with financial policies than by job performance. Suriya responded by affirming his openness to all viewpoints on appointments and transfers, including those from Thamanat. He clarified that the process is transparent and that ultimate authority lies with the Permanent Secretary, not the Minister. Suriya also acknowledged the right of the opposition to scrutinize his actions and expressed his readiness to provide explanations.
Suriya further explained the necessity for appointing replacements due to the upcoming retirement of seven high-ranking officials on September 30th. He stated that the Permanent Secretary's recommendations for appointments and transfers were made after a comprehensive review of integrity, dedication, commitment, and seniority. These recommendations were discussed at the executive level before being approved by him and forwarded to the Secretary-General of the Cabinet for further consideration.
Suriya assured that the appointments were conducted without any misconduct or the buying of positions, reiterating that they were based on proposals from the Permanent Secretary. He welcomed any evidence of bribery to be submitted to investigative agencies.
Addressing concerns about a potential purge of the old guard, Suriya clarified that the Ministry of Agriculture comprises 31 high-ranking officials and that a complete purge would involve removing all these positions, which is not the case. He highlighted his long political career, spanning service under former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Mr. Settha Thavisin, and Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, totaling 11 ministerial terms. Suriya emphasized that all his appointments and transfers have been conducted without controversy, offering verifiable evidence to support his claims.