Phumtham defends reshuffle

Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai yesterday insisted that the decision to replace several senior ministry officials with known ties to the Bhumjaithai Party wasn't politically motivated, saying the move was taken to improve administrative performance.

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The veteran Pheu Thai politician, who is also the acting prime minister, made the remarks after government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub announced the cabinet had approved the reshuffle of several positions within the Interior Ministry.

Chaiwat Chuntirapong, who was the director-general of the Department of Provincial Administration (DoPA), was made an inspector-general of the Interior Ministry. He will be replaced by Chiang Mai governor, Nirat Wongsitthithavorn.