In a surprising political shake-up, Thailand’s Cabinet has approved the sudden transfer of Phuket Governor Saransak Srikruanetra, making him the island’s shortest-serving governor after holding office for only 14 days.
Thai Cabinet Approves Sudden Governor Transfer
The decision, confirmed by Anuphong Panarat, Secretary to the Phuket Governor, came just two weeks after Saransak officially began his term on October 2. The transfer awaits Royal Assent, but such procedures are typically completed quickly once announced.
The news broke after confidential government documents regarding the transfer were leaked online on October 14, sparking widespread public attention and speculation about the reasons behind the abrupt move.
Nirat Pongsitthaworn Named as Successor
Saransak will be replaced by Nirat Pongsitthaworn, who was simultaneously relieved of his position as Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA).
Nirat, originally from Bangkok, has previously served as governor of Chiang Mai, Udon Thani, and Bueng Kan. His appointment is seen as a strategic decision under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s Interior Ministry, which is expected to announce an election within the next few months.
Observers note that Nirat’s rapid rise through government ranks reflects possible power positioning ahead of Thailand’s upcoming political shifts.
Political Backlash and Local Criticism
The sudden leadership change has sparked criticism from Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee, who described the move as part of a “revolving-door” culture within Thailand’s administrative system.
“The Phuket case may be special, but this phenomenon has long been a normal cycle in Thai government administration,” Chalermpong said.
“Most governors serve only one to four years. Once they begin to understand local issues, they are transferred again.”
Criticism of Centralized Governance
Chalermpong further criticized Thailand’s centralized provincial governance model, where governors are appointed by the Ministry of the Interior rather than elected by local residents.
He emphasized that this system often delays progress on important local issues:
“When it comes to major matters, local governments can’t act independently. The governor must either sign off or forward the issue to the central government for approval.”
Calls for Reform and Local Empowerment
Chalermpong concluded his remarks by urging structural reform, suggesting that provincial executives should be directly elected by residents to ensure more efficient and accountable leadership.
“This situation highlights the inefficiency of the current administrative system and reinforces the need for direct elections of provincial executives,” he stated.
The incident has intensified public debate about Thailand’s political centralization, especially in fast-developing provinces like Phuket, where frequent administrative changes can stall long-term development plans.
