Among Phumtham’s initial tasks: choosing the heir to Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol’s throne, who’s set to retire at the end of this month. But hold your horses; the actual selection can’t kick-off until October 3rd when the Police Commission’s new rules take effect. In the lull, Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet, the current deputy police chief, looks poised to step in as the interim chief.
This year’s appointment is more than just a personnel change; it’s a high-stakes poker game with political titans flexing their muscles. The Police Commission, crowned with Phumtham at the helm, has narrowed down the potential successors to three formidable contenders: Pol Gen Kitrat, Pol Gen Thana Choowong, and police inspector-general Pol Gen Kraiboon Suadsong. According to our inside man, Pol Gen Kitrat appears to have the winds of fortune at his back.
Yet, the story doesn’t end there. The election could face delays if backroom negotiations stall. Rumor has it that this year’s appointment will be a victory lap for political interference, with whispers of politicians jostling for the deputy prime minister role, eager to call the shots over the police force.
Let’s take a plunge into Pol Gen Kitrat’s resume. A stalwart from Class 25 of the Armed Forces Preparatory School and Class 41 of the Police Academy, Kitrat launched his career as a deputy inspector in Muang Rayong. Climbing the ladder, he cut his teeth at both the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB). Known to be a close confidant of former police chief Pol Gen Suwat Jaengyodsuk, Kitrat’s reputation for management acumen has garnered significant trust. Torsak himself had handpicked him to oversee crime prevention and suppression.
The upcoming reshuffle doesn’t stop at the top; several high-ranking positions are on the cusp of change due to impending retirements. The landscape’s about to see a shake-up with Pol Lt Gen Jirasan Kaewsaengake, commissioner of Provincial Police Region 1; Pol Lt Gen Thakoon Natsri of Provincial Police Region 3; and a slew of other notable commissioners bidding adieu to active duty.
Also, promotions are on the horizon for Pol Lt Gen Thiti Saengsawang and Pol Lt Gen Itthipol Itthisarnronchai, expected to ascend to the roles of assistant police chiefs. Meanwhile, the shadow of political interests looms over the selections of Provincial Police Bureau chiefs and other regional influencers.
Following the 2014 coup, the government handed the Royal Thai Police (RTP) free rein to manage its internal shuffle, largely insulating it from political meddling. Fast forward to today, with the nation back under full political governance, the atmosphere has grown charged once more. The return of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, said to still pull strings within the ruling Pheu Thai Party, adds another layer of intrigue and potential interference.
Amidst these political theatrics, the RTP continues its shuffle game at the commissioner and commander levels. The balancing act between seniority and capability for appointments is a tightrope walk, the extent of political intrusion remains an open question. Yet, hope glimmers that some agencies like the CIB under Pol Lt Gen Jirabhop Bhuridej, renowned for his rigorous vetting, may weather the storm.
A pulse check from a recent nationwide survey conducted by Super Poll revealed some telling insights. Conducted from Sept 1-7 and polling 466 officers across all fields, the survey showed an overwhelming desire for a leader who prioritizes the well-being of the force and bolsters societal trust. Around 70% of respondents cited unity in leadership as paramount. Other cherished traits included teamwork, clear directives, an attentive ear, and the knack for asking incisive questions.
When it comes to the police chief’s inaugural agenda, improving welfare benefits topped the list, with 77% of the force vouching for it as the prime directive for their incoming boss.
The orchestra of political machinations and high-stakes maneuvering makes the upcoming reshuffle a spectacle not to be missed. So grab some popcorn, folks—it’s going to be a rollercoaster!
The entire appointment process is just another example of political interference in the police force. Phumtham is just another pawn in the grand scheme.
You’re being way too cynical. It’s about someone qualified who can lead and bring stability.
Stability doesn’t come from political puppets. The RTP needs an independent leader.
KapowKnows has a point. Leadership is critical, but truthfully, the selection process should be depoliticized entirely.
Independent leader or not, the new chief will still have to navigate a political minefield.
I think Pol Gen Kitrat is a solid choice. His resume speaks for itself and he’s earned the trust of many.
Isn’t he too close to the old guard, though? Fresh blood might be better.
The old guard had their flaws, but Pol Gen Kitrat has the experience and connections to actually get things done.
Exactly, Stanford K. Experience matters more than looking like a revolutionary choice.
Rumors of Thaksin’s influence again. Haven’t we had enough of his meddling already?
Honestly, the entire political system in Thailand is a mess. It’s not just Thaksin. It’s everyone.
Phumtham has a tough job ahead. Navigating politics while trying to pick the right person can’t be easy.
Delays are inevitable with so many interests at play. Let’s not act surprised when it happens.
But these delays hurt the police force’s morale. Stability is key for them to perform their duties.
True, Tracy. But unfortunately, delays seem unavoidable at this point.
The new police chief should focus on crime prevention and reducing corruption within the force.
What good is new leadership if they can’t even enact meaningful changes? It feels like rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic.
Shouldn’t we consider someone who’s not already tangled in this political web?
Good luck finding someone completely untangled. Politics is embedded in the system.
It’s about time we started talking about the welfare of police officers. Their morale and well-being are crucial for a functioning force.
Absolutely, Megan. Improving welfare benefits should be a priority for whomever takes charge.
Exactly! Happy officers will be more dedicated and effective in their roles.
Call me cynical, but no new chief will change anything without real political reform.
Phumtham being tapped for this role just means more of the same. When will we see real change?
All this politicking just distracts from the main issues: crime and public safety. That’s what the focus should be.
If they genuinely care about societal trust, they need to be transparent about this appointment process.
Kitrat seems like a good option, but until proven otherwise, I’m skeptical about his ability to withstand political pressure.
All these speculations are pointless until the Police Commission’s new rules take effect on October 3rd. Let’s wait and see.
Interesting read. Regardless of the chief’s appointment, the climate of political influence over the RTP needs addressing.
The survey should be a guiding light for whoever takes the top spot. Cater to the officers’ needs, and you’ll see improvements.
It’s about time we focused on the strengths of the candidates rather than their political connections.
The whole situation reflects the deeper issues within Thailand’s political landscape. The police force is just one part of a larger problem.
So what if Pol Gen Kitrat is a bit ‘old guard’? He’s proven. The police need stability now more than ever.