Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai yesterday deflected concerns about his independence, assuring that he stands firm on his decisions. His comments came in the wake of political observers’ criticisms over his choice to appoint Gen Trisak Indararusmi, a former classmate of ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra, as his secretary.
Mr. Phumtham emphasized that Gen Trisak, who previously served as an expert adviser to the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF), brings a wealth of experience and his insights will be particularly valuable. However, he made it clear that the ultimate decision-making power remains firmly in his hands.
Additionally, Mr. Phumtham mentioned he is contemplating the appointment of one or two more aides to assist with routine administrative tasks. The positions of advisor and assistant minister are still open, and he suggested that bringing in younger generations could be advantageous. “Don’t worry. I can guarantee that no one has influence over me. I will remain independent,” he assured.
A long-time member of the Pheu Thai Party, Mr. Phumtham’s appointment as defence minister is widely perceived to have the backing of Thaksin. “I’m totally confident that I can work with the military without any problem,” he stated. He has already engaged in discussions with military leaders to express his commitment to further develop and strengthen the nation’s military forces.
Mr. Phumtham noted that the military has undergone remarkable changes, such as incorporating advanced technologies to boost efficiency and streamlining its operations. He acknowledged that these updates require time to manifest their full benefits. The Defence Ministry, he asserted, will adhere to the nation’s development strategy and the government’s policy statements.
Next on his agenda, Mr. Phumtham plans to visit military personnel who were injured while on duty, before making rounds to each branch of the armed forces. He also intends to tour the engineering corps and development units, which play a pivotal role in relief operations.
I don’t trust this at all. Thaksin’s shadow is all over this appointment!
But Phumtham has proven his capabilities in the past. Shouldn’t we give him a fair chance?
That’s naive! Once you’re in Thaksin’s circle, you’re never really independent.
Exactly! It’s high time we moved on from Thaksin-era politics.
True! We need fresh perspectives, not recycled alliances.
The fact that he’s thinking of bringing in younger aides is a promising sign!
You really think younger equals better? Experience counts for a lot in these roles!
@Tom, the younger generation is more in touch with modern technologies. It could be beneficial.
Exactly! We need innovative solutions for current issues.
His focus on the injured military personnel is commendable. Actions speak louder than words.
I feel like no matter what he does, there will always be people discrediting him because of his ties to Thaksin.
Politics is all about perceptions. You can’t ignore these connections.
It’s true, but should we judge him solely based on his network?
Exactly. Let’s judge him on his actions and results.
The military reforms sound good in theory, but will they follow through?
It’s all talk until we see actual changes.
This appointment is a political move, pure and simple.
All appointments are political to some extent. Doesn’t mean he won’t do a good job.
I think we should focus on the proposed visits to engineering and development units. That’s where real progress can happen.
Politics aside, we need someone who understands the military’s evolving needs. Gen Trisak might have the experience, but can he adapt?
I doubt Phumtham can maintain independence when his political career is steeped in connections.
I’m curious about how the military leadership is taking this. Will they cooperate?
It’s one thing to promise independence publicly, but quite another to act on it behind closed doors.
Phumtham’s approach seems balanced. Let’s see if he can walk the talk.
Bringing in advisors and assistants sounds like he’s just padding his support with loyalists.
This is just the beginning. Wait till he starts appointing more people from his circle.
Visits to armed forces are just for show. Real change happens in policy discussions.
I think we need to see some substantial changes before passing judgment on Phumtham.
He’s said the right things so far. Let’s watch his next moves closely.
Phumtham’s commitment to technological advancements in the military could be his strongest point.
Exactly, as long as he can implement these advancements effectively. Time will tell.