Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, acting in the capacity of Prime Minister, has chosen not to comment on the government's plummeting poll numbers. He is currently withholding his proposal for the appointment of the new Director-General of the Land Department from the Cabinet. The decision, intertwined with the distribution of high-level positions, such as the vacant governorships in Chiang Mai and Phetchaburi, remains pending as he evaluates potential candidates.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham revealed his intentions to present the matter of the new Director-General of the Department of Lands to the Cabinet tomorrow, contingent on the possibility of meeting today's submission deadline. The potential appointment of Mr. Chettha Mosikarat, currently Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, as the new Director-General remains uncertain, with Mr. Phumtham preferring to wait until tomorrow to finalize his decision.
Mr. Phumtham further clarified that while there have not been significant transfers, efforts are underway to manage transitions for levels 10 and 11. The governorships of Chiang Mai and Phetchaburi have not been prioritized for Cabinet discussion, as the process for such appointments typically involves a deputy governor assuming the role temporarily.
When questioned about the timing of appointments, Mr. Phumtham indicated that there are multiple strategies available, noting that recent transfers have been minimal and necessary. He emphasized the importance of Cabinet approval before proceeding with any substantial changes.
Reflecting on his one-month tenure as Minister of the Interior, Mr. Phumtham expressed surprise at how quickly time had passed and assured that ministry functions are proceeding as usual. He highlighted upcoming initiatives, including an August 7th meeting with local leaders to outline new policies, and the formation of working groups aimed at bolstering the grassroots economy and addressing drug-related issues.
Despite the current focus on maintaining normalcy within the ministry, Mr. Phumtham acknowledged the fragmented nature of individual efforts. He stressed the importance of using these working groups to foster coordination and unify various initiatives.
In response to inquiries about the declining popularity of the Pheu Thai Party and Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Mr. Phumtham opted not to provide any comments. Instead, he offered a smile and a wave to the media before departing from the Ministry of Interior in his vehicle.