Thai spokesperson defends Anutin over official transfer dispute

Government spokesperson Ekkaphop Phianphiset has defended Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul following criticism from former Permanent Secretary for Interior, Suttipong Juljarern. The dispute centers on the temporary transfer of the Ban Sang District Chief, Setthawut Wongloewut, to the Department of Provincial Administration.

Suttipong questioned the appropriateness and reasoning behind the transfer during a disaster prevention and mitigation meeting. In response, Ekkaphop argued that the Ban Sang area is currently in a crisis due to floodwaters merging from Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri provinces, requiring urgent and integrated coordination.

Ekkaphop dismissed Suttipong’s criticism, stating that Anutin did not personally attack individuals or their educational backgrounds, but rather expressed concern regarding official conduct and the need for effective crisis management. The spokesperson further contended that the Minister’s remarks were driven by concern for public safety rather than unprofessionalism.