phuket

Thailand's cabinet approved the transfer of Phuket governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn to the Interior Ministry and moved deputy permanent secretary Chotinrin Kerdsom to replace him, after conflict inside the provincial administration also led to the transfer of two deputy governors.

Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said the transfer of Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsittithavorn was meant to improve administration and overcome conflicts hindering action against influential figures and alleged criminal networks.

Thai officials said the transfer of Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn was meant to speed up efforts to solve longstanding provincial problems, while rejecting criticism that the reshuffle was tied to vested interests or was merely for show.

Thailand’s Interior Ministry said its reshuffle of Phuket’s governor was meant to defuse conflict and improve administration, with Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul adding that the case should serve as a “Phuket Sandbox” model for other provinces.