Bangkok: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul declared that without the help of village headmen and sub-district chiefs, the government would be crippled. He pointed out that they are the first line of defense for the people when they are suffering and advised them to study basic laws. He emphasized that communities must not have thugs bullying the weak, and stressed the principle of "harming your own people is harming yourself."
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul presided over a policy briefing for village headmen and sub-district chiefs at the Santi Maitri Building, Government House, to drive operational implementation in the area. Mr. Anutin stated that he felt honored to invite them to this meeting, noting it was a good opportunity as the government had only recently taken office. He emphasized that the village headmen and sub-district chiefs are crucial components of the Ministry of Interior and the government's administration, and therefore, he invited them to this meeting, free of charge, to demonstrate their vital role in the government's governance. He noted that policies would be implemented from this location and that he was familiar with many of them, noting their long-standing role in Thai society and governance, and their important responsibility for the well-being of the people.
The Prime Minister continued, "Village heads and sub-district chiefs are the first line of defense, the first group of people who think of and seek help when citizens are in distress or need assistance. Therefore, it is my duty to help them solve their problems. They must act as intermediaries between the government and the people, assisting district officers and taking responsibility for local administration, supporting the implementation of government and Ministry of Interior policies. Please believe that you are very important to us; without you, we would be practically crippled."
The Prime Minister further stated that there have been many illegal activities lately, and he appealed to everyone to study basic laws before becoming administrators of local government units. He said they don't need to have a law degree if they don't have the time, but basic, general laws, especially those related to maintaining peace and order in the country, are essential. He emphasized that he relies on them to enforce these laws, but they must not become influential figures themselves. He stressed that their influence lies in promoting good deeds for the people, and he preferred not to use the term "influential person" because it's negative.
From now on, I ask for your help. In addition to assisting the people with opportunities for livelihood and ensuring justice, we must also protect them. Recently, there have been many news reports of cases involving the oppression of those weaker than ourselves. Therefore, the proverb says, "Beware of the owner before you kick a dog." Anyone who harms those under your authority is harming you. Our people are benefactors; you must protect them.
The Prime Minister emphasized the crucial principle of consistent policy implementation. The fundamental and ongoing focus is on preventing, suppressing, and resolving drug-related problems. He noted that village heads and community leaders have declared themselves enemies of drugs, and stressed the importance of making every village and community a drug-free zone. Additionally, he highlighted the need for local authorities to manage disasters independently and swiftly, without waiting for the governor's directive.
The Prime Minister also stated that preparations are underway for the upcoming rainy season, with heavy rainfall expected in all regions of Thailand in May. He urged everyone to have contingency plans in place to prevent hardship for the public. Regarding the national situation, he requested full cooperation in maintaining peace and order in all areas.
Following the policy briefing, the Prime Minister had lunch with village headmen and community leaders who attended the event in the central hall of the Santi Maitri Building. Afterward, the Prime Minister took a group photo with the village headmen and community leaders in front of the Thai Khu Fah Building.