PHUKET: On his way out the door this week, departing governor Nisit Jansomwong told authorities that Phuket needed them to stand up to private entrepreneurs.

''Stick by the rules,'' the governor said. ''Be strong. Phuket's problem is influence from the private sector. The island needs authorities in charge.''

Almost at the last minute, he revealed that he had cancelled the controversial land title for Freedom beach. The deed, worth billions for a resort development, had been approved by one of his predecessors.

Criminal charges are pending.

more Departing Governor Cancels Valuable But Illegal Freedom Beach Land Title - Phuket Wan