In a conversation with journalists at the dignified Government House, the illustrious Prime Minister, Mr. Srettha Thavisin, vociferously denied any actions of influence over the selection of local law enforcement leadership. Mr. Srettha was countering and providing clarification to circulating media narratives following a gathering with Pheu Thai parliament members.
The news outlets suggested that the Prime Minister admitted to some Members of the Parliament (MPs) effectively swaying the appointments of police station chiefs. This was allegedly mentioned in discussions that focused on the furtherance of his initiative to employ newly appointed police officers in helping citizens overcome debts owed to moneylenders.
Mr. Srettha, however, passionately proclaimed his innocence of the cited actions. In his address at the Government House, he clarified that during the said meeting, he neither acknowledged nor affirmed that Pheu Thai MPs had successful influence over police chiefs’ appointments.
Despite this assertion, certain video fragments from the meeting seem to allude to a different story. The Prime Minister is seen discussing the role of the fresh police chiefs in tackling loansharking issues whilst supporting government initiatives to assist those in debt. This is followed by him indicating the MPs’ interest in appointing numerous police station chiefs, with some being content with the appointments, and others expressing dissatisfaction.
However, on Wednesday, Mr. Srettha shattered that insinuation, stating that the gathering was centered on discussing the effectiveness of anti-narcotic officials in particular areas. He fervently refuted any such appointments being requested by the MPs. “In my capacity, I lack the autonomy to interfere, or ever had in the appointment or promotion of government officials or law enforcement officers,” Mr. Srettha stated.
In clarification, he declared that his mention of ‘satisfaction and disappointment’ was in context to the MPs’ reaction towards officials’ performance, not the appointments.
The ensuing reactions are noteworthy. Democrat MP Chaichana Detdecho, the head of the House committee on police matters, declared a convocation where the Premier will be asked to elucidate the matter on Dec 7. He reminded everyone that the constitution’s Section 185(3) forbids house representatives and senators from swaying the elevation or transfer of any government representative.
Rangsiman Rome, an MP of the Move Forward Party, opined that Prime Minister Srettha’s unintended comment during the Tuesday meeting has stirred doubts regarding the transparency of police promotions and transfers. Mr. Rangsiman disclosed that he was assessing if the Prime Minister’s comment infringed upon Section 185 of the country’s constitution, in addition to the codes of ethics and police affairs.
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