Replacement of NSC chief was wrong

The government’s push to name General Priewpan Damapong as the national police chief has stalled, Democrat MP Suthep Thaugsuban said on Friday. “The government is encountering a stumbling block in Priewpan’s appointment,” he said.

Suthep said the government might succeed in the end but not before overcoming some difficult issues. I think MP Suthep Thaugsuban is right because the transfer of the National Security Council’s secretary general Thawil Pleansri was without good cause. I don’t mind Gen Priewpan Damapong becoming National Police Chief, but it was unfair for Thawil, who has done no wrong. It was unjustified just because Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung wanted his way. 

The National Police Chief’s post is so cheap and changed frequently – like I change my underwear. Why do politicians like Chalerm want to mess around with the police chief? Maybe because his highest post in the department was only police captain. So, now he is Deputy Prime Minister and wants to flex his muscle! On the other hand, the reds’ leaders like MP Jatuporn Promphan want to mess around with the Defence Department. He isn’t worth a dime representing the public in general. His behaviour, words, and actions belong on the street or a jailhouse would be more suitable. He is one of the top bad boys – a very sad example for the new generation to come. His democracy philosophy and beliefs acquired through violent means over the past two years are unacceptable for representing people who meant to hold the high moral ground. It shows an indirect abuse of power by the Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung!

I am proud of Thawil Pleansri’s decision to fight against his removal. At least he has the guts to do what as a man should stand for. I hope he wins the fight for his job and retains his post as NSC secretary general. Otherwise the moral high ground will be diminished within the NSC.

S. Piputtana