Governor in ‘royal word’ order furore
Interior permanent secretary Chatchai Promlert will consider whether to approve the resignation of Chanthaburi governor Withurat Srinam over the misuse of a “royal word” in written orders the governor issued, Interior Minister Anupong Paojinda says.
Mr Withurat has come under fire after putting the royal term in two of his orders to officials in preparation to receive ministers during a mobile cabinet visit in Chanthaburi on Monday and Tuesday. The orders were signed on Jan 31 and Feb 2.
It was reported that the word rab sadet, a royal term meaning to receive, was used.
The visit, which also includes the neighbouring province of Trat, was led by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.
On Wednesday, the governor signed his resignation letter, which was submitted to the permanent secretary for the interior. In the letter, the governor expressed his wish to step down to safeguard the dignity of his family and the position he serves. He suggested his resignation take effect on March 7.
Speaking after a 40-minute discussion with Mr Withurat yesterday, Gen Anupong said the governor wanted to shoulder responsibility for the mistake in the orders, which concerned security measures to be put in place for cabinet members during the trip. As the governor thought he needed to accept responsibility, he decided to quit. Whether his resignation letter will be approved or not depends on the interior permanent secretary, the minister said.
When asked whether the governor should step down, Gen Anupong said: “I have made it clear that the governor has already reflected on what he did. However, the resignation issue will be decided by the permanent secretary. I myself have no opinion about it.”
Mr Chatchai said yesterday he needed to review the facts and there are steps he needs to follow concerning the resignation issue.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said he was aware of the mistake in the order. However, he has not received any information about the governor’s resignation. Whether it would go ahead or be turned down depends on his superiors, Mr Wissanu said.
Responding to question over whether the mistake is a severe one, Mr Wissanu said such errors can happen.
When asked whether the matter warrants resignation, the deputy premier responded: “It doesn’t appear to be that critical.”
Mr Withurat said yesterday the explanation for his decision to quit can be found in a memorial book distributed at the funeral rites of his father.