Bangkok: Suriya Jungrungruangkit, the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, has addressed allegations concerning the recent reshuffling of top officials in the Ministry. He firmly denied any purges of officials aligned with Thammanat Phromphao, emphasizing the principles of honesty, dedication, and seniority in these appointments. Suriya asserted that his long tenure as a minister under five prime ministers has been free of issues related to transfers.
According to Thai News Agency, Suriya acknowledged proposing the cabinet reshuffle and offered to clarify any concerns. He dismissed allegations that the transfers were influenced by factions, stating that the reshuffle was a standard procedure following the retirement of seven high-ranking officials on September 30th. Suriya reiterated that the process was conducted transparently and in consultation with the Permanent Secretary and executive level, not as a unilateral decision.
Suriya addressed a Facebook post by Captain Thamanat, MP for Phayao and leader of the Kla Tham Party, which criticized the transfer of civil servants. Thamanat had suggested the reshuffle was linked to non-compliance with financial policies rather than performance. Suriya confirmed that he is open to scrutiny and feedback, emphasizing that the opposition is entitled to examine the ministry's work.
The Minister clarified that the reshuffle was driven by the need to fill vacant positions and was based on merit and capability. He stressed that the appointments were free from bribery or favoritism, and he welcomed any evidence to the contrary to be submitted to investigative bodies. Suriya assured that the appointments were backed by verifiable evidence of his unproblematic history in handling official transfers.
Regarding the notion of a purge, Suriya highlighted that the ministry has 31 high-ranking officials, and if a purge were intended, all positions would be affected. He insisted that the reshuffle was based solely on knowledge and ability, citing his extensive political experience under various prime ministers, affirming the legitimacy and integrity of the appointments.