Thread: Is Prayuth the best choice amid signs of Army rivalry?

Is being head of the army in Thailand anything to do whatsoever with defending the country?

Or is it mostly about dealing with the Thai people, when called upon.

"Eastern Tigers", eh? This report takes on a slightly different dimension if you know the actual names of the Divisions these commanders have made their careers in rather than just the Divisional numbers.

Originally Posted by StrontiumDog

Under prevailing circumstances, the military has a pivotal role in the political landscape. So it is imperative politicians and soldiers work together if democratic rule is to advance

.

If democratic rule is to advance it would be better if the military didn't have a 'pivotal role ' in the political landscape at all.

Originally Posted by Bangyai

Originally Posted by StrontiumDog

Under prevailing circumstances, the military has a pivotal role in the political landscape. So it is imperative politicians and soldiers work together if democratic rule is to advance

.

If democratic rule is to advance it would be better if the military didn't have a 'pivotal role ' in the political landscape at all.

Fully agree, but sadly I just can't see that happening here.

I can see it happening.

Once what they are there to 'defend' is no longer there anymore.

Yeah, things will change, obviously; these generals/privis are on borrowed time... How things will pan out thereafter is anyones guess, but the side-switching/re-alignment is gonna be chaotic.

Originally Posted by StrontiumDog

Fully agree, but sadly I just can't see that happening here.

Dito. We're not talking about the kind of people who will check out gracefully and leave the keys at reception.

Its kind of interesting that for a little while Anupong appeared to be reluctant to proceed with the recent crackdown. Once the dust began to settle however, he got the go ahead to proceed with the purchase of the much criticized blimp.

Weaning ourselves from the {overwhelming} consciousness and romantic notions of militarism might be a more positive direction.

Originally Posted by Bettyboo

these generals/privis are on borrowed time... How things will pan out thereafter is anyones guess, but the side-switching/re-alignment is gonna be chaotic.

The band will play on and deck chairs will be rearranged as the unsinkable vessel slowly slips into the muck on the seabed where it rightfully belongs.

Bangkok Post : Apichart: No interference in reshuffle


Apichart: No interference in reshuffle

• Published: 20/07/2010 at 11:02 AM
• Online news: Breakingnews

There is no political interference in the annual reshuffle of high raking officers in the armed forces, permanent secretary for defence Gen Apichart Penkitti affirmed on Tuesday.


Asked who would likely replace army commander-in-chief Gen Anupong Paojinda, who will retire at the end of September, Gen Apichart there are two potential candidates - deputy army chief Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha and army chief of staff Gen Pirun Paewponsong.


“They both are suitable to lead the army. There is no influence from the political branch in the selection of the new army boss,” Gen Apichart said.
Asked about the lifting of the state of emergency in some provinces, as favoured by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, Gen Apichart said it ws up the cabinet, which meets today.


He believed there would be no problem even if the red-shirts hold a 61st birthday celebration for fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, as long as they do not violate the law.

Thailand's generals play musical chairs - Part 1 | Asian Correspondent


Thailand's generals play musical chairs - Part 1


+ enlarge Aug. 02 2010 - 06:47 am






By James Harriman

This is the first of a two part series by Saksith Saiyasombut and myself on the upcoming military command reshuffle - this post will focus on the musical chairs below commander-in-chief, while Saksith's post will cover the contenders for the top army rank. It is also a follow-up on a post done a few weeks ago (see here).

Previously, “Big Noy” Gen. Wit Thepsahadin Na Ayutthaya (Class 11, Asst. Commander-in-Chief) looked headed for the deputy commander-in-chief spot, taking over for Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha. Now, however, Wit may unceremoniously become Army Advisory Board chairperson, despite his childhood connections with Gen. Anupong Paochinda. The new front-runner for Prayuth’s position is “Big Doy” Gen. Theerawat Boonyapradap (Class 10, Asst. Commander-in-Chief).

Why Theerawat and not Wit?

According to Matichon Weekly, Theerawat’s selection could be linked to his role in past arms procurement deals. Theerawat, also a Class 10 friend of Anupong, has played a role in arms procurements ever since he served as director of the Ordnance Department (OD). Theerawat directed the OD in 2007 during the military appointed government of Gen. Surayud Chulanont. From that time forward, the Army has had serious problems with a number of procurements such as the airship, Ukranian APCs, and GT 200. In some cases these procurements have turned into news scandals, undercutting the army's professionalism and credibility. As such, Anupong may want to keep Theerawat on board to “solve” procurement issues and handle the second lot of 121 Ukranian APCs. According to Matichon Weekly, Theerawat will not have any real power to influence these issues unless he sits as deputy commander-in-chief.

(Matichon Weekly) ผช.ผบ.ทบ. เพื่อน ตท.10 ขึ้นเป็น รอง ผบ.ทบ. ครองอัตราจอมพลก่อนเกษียณ ทั้งๆ ที่เดิมหมายจะให้ บิ๊กน้อย พล.อ.วิชญ์ เทพหัสดิน ณ อยุธยา ผช.ผบ.ทบ. น้อง ตท.11 ที่เป็นเหมือนเพื่อนรักมาตั้งแต่วัยเด็ก แต่ให้เป็นประธานที่ปรึกษา ทบ. ที่แม้อัตราจอมพลเหมือนกัน แต่ก็เป็นเก้าอี้ที่ถูกแขวน

ต้องเข้าใจ ว่า พล.อ.อนุพงษ์ กับ พล.อ.ธีระวัฒน์ นั้น สนิทสนมกันแค่ไหน จนร่ำลือกันว่า เพื่อนคนนี้เป็นเสมือนกระเป๋าเงินส่วนตัว ที่คอยดูแลสายงานส่งกำลังบำรุง การจัดซื้ออาวุธยุทโธปกรณ์ให้มาตลอด ตั้งแต่เป็นเจ้ากรมสรรพาวุธ ทบ.

ยิ่ง ในยามที่ ทบ. มีปัญหาเรื่องการจัดซื้ออาวุธยุทโธปกรณ์ จนกลายเป็น "ข่าวฉาว" ทั้ง เรือเหาะ ทบ. 350 ล้านบาท ที่แม้คณะกรรมการ ทบ. ตรวจรับปุ๊บ แต่ก็ส่งซ่อมปั๊บ และการซื้อรถเกราะยูเครนล็อตแรก 96 คัน เกือบ 4 พันล้านบาท ที่ยังมีปัญหาเรื่องเครื่องยนต์และเกียร์ จนบัดนี้ 3 ปีแล้วยังส่งมอบให้ ทบ. ไม่ได้

ที่สำคัญคือ พล.อ.อนุพงษ์ ต้องการให้ พล.อ.ธีระวัฒน์ มาสานต่อการจัดซื้อรถเกราะยูเครน ล็อต 2 อีก 121 คัน เกือบ 5 พันล้านบาท และสางปัญหาต่างๆ ที่ได้ร่วมก่อกันเอาไว้ เพราะถ้าเดิมให้ พล.อ.ธีระวัฒน์ เป็นประธานที่ปรึกษา ทบ. ก็ไม่มีอำนาจหน้าที่ดูแลเรื่องเหล่านี้ แต่ในฐานะ รอง ผบ.ทบ. สามารถดูได้ทุกเรื่อง

แต่ คนที่ช้ำใจก็คือ พล.อ.วิชญ์ ที่กลายเป็นแค่ตัวสำรอง ทั้งๆ ที่ พล.อ.ประวิตร เป็นคนลั่นวาจาไว้ก่อนแล้ว แต่ก็ถือว่าได้จอมพลก่อนเกษียณ

Also in regards to Theerawat’s situation, Matichon Weekly says, “It’s rumored that this friend [Theerawat] is like a personal wallet.”

ต้อง เข้าใจว่า พล.อ.อนุพงษ์ กับ พล.อ.ธีระวัฒน์ นั้น สนิทสนมกันแค่ไหน จนร่ำลือกันว่า เพื่อนคนนี้เป็นเสมือนกระเป๋าเงินส่วนตัว ที่คอยดูแลสายงานส่งกำลังบำรุง การจัดซื้ออาวุธยุทโธปกรณ์ให้มาตลอด ตั้งแต่เป็นเจ้ากรมสรรพาวุธ ทบ.

Matichon Weekly makes a similar reference in the previous week’s edition when it says, “บิ๊กต้อย พล.อ.ธีระวัฒน์ บุญยประดับ ผช.ผบ.ทบ. เพื่อนรัก ตท.10 ถุงเงินประจำตัว'

Is Matichon Weekly trying to insinuate some kind of “funny business” with the procurements?

As for the vacancies left by Wit and Theerawat, Siam Intelligence reports that Army Area 1 Commander Lt. Gen. Kanit Sapitak and Area 4 Commander Lt. Gen. Pichet Wisaichorn will most likely fill these positions. Kanit is part of the dominant Queen’s Guard-Eastern Tigers clique, which includes Defense Minister Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan, Anupong, and Prayuth. Kanit also led the crackdown against the red shirts as the area commander covering Bangkok.

According to Matichon Weekly, the generals have considered keeping Kanit as Area 1 commander to prevent rivalry for his position between the Wongthewan (King’s Guard) and Burapha Payak (Queen’s Guard) divisions. It may also be about differences of opinion between Anupong, Prayuth, Prawit, and Si Sao Thewet (Prem). Anupong has reportedly given Prawit final say on the matter. The top contender for Kanit’s replacement is “Big Dong” Maj. Gen. Udomdet Sitabutr (Dep. Commander, Area 1). Matichon Weekly says that Udomdet has the backing of Prawit and Si Sao Thewet.

(Matichon Weekly) ในส่วนกองทัพบก พล.อ.อนุพงษ์ ร่วมพิจารณาจัดทำรายชื่อร่วมกับ พล.อ.ประยุทธ์ ส่วนใหญ่จะส่งนายทหารในสังกัดสายบูรพาพยัคฆ์ ก้าวขึ้นสู่ตำแหน่งสำคัญ และดันเพื่อร่วมรุ่น ตท.10 และ ตท.12 นั่งในตำแหน่งคุมกำลังสำคัญเกือบทั้งหมด อาทิ พล.อ.ธีระวัฒน์ บุณยะประดับ ผช.ผบ.ทบ.(ตท.10) มือจัดซื้ออาวุธยุทโธปกรณ์ ทั้งรถหุ้มกราะล้อยางจากยูเครน เครื่องตรวจและค้นหาวัตถุระเบิดทีจี 200 เรือเหาะ ขึ้นเป็น รองผบ.ทบ. โดยโยกพล.อ.วิชญ์ เทพหัสดิน ณ อยุธยา ผช.ผบ.ทบ. ไปเป็นประธานคณะที่ปรึกษา ทบ.(อัตราจอมพล) พล.อ.พิรุณ แผ้วพลสง เสธ.ทบ. เพื่อนร่วมรุ่น ตท.10 ข้ามไปเป็นรองผบ.สส. เพื่อเปิดทางให้ พล.ท.ดา ว์พงษ์ รัตนสุวรรณ รองเสธ.ทบ. (ตท.12) มือเขียนแผนปราบม็อบเสื้อแดง ขึ้นเป็นเสธ.ทบ. และดันคนสนิทในสายบูรพาพยัคฆ์ พล.ท.คณิต สาพิทักษ์ แม่ทัพภาคที่ 1 ผู้บัญชาการเหตุการณ์ปราบม็อบเสื้อแดง ขึ้นเป็น ผช.ผบ.ทบ. พร้อมกับ พล.ท.พิ เชษฐ์ วิสัยจร แม่ทัพภาคที่ 4

Gen. Piroon Paewpolsong currently holds the remaining fifth tiger position, chief of staff. Since Saksith is covering the Piroon situation, I will just add that “Big Nuey” Lt. Gen. Dapong Rattanasuwan (Class 12, Deputy Chief of Staff) is the heir apparent for Piroon’s position. According to Matichon Weekly, Dapong has support from his class 12 friend Prayuth. In addition, Dapong’s strong hand in the May crackdown on the red shirts boosts his prospects. Importantly, if Dapong takes over the chief of staff position, he will simultaneously become Internal Security Operations Command secretary. ISOC is effectively the political arm of the military and has a budget of roughly eight billion baht, says Matichon Weekly.

(Matichon Weekly) “อีกทั้งที่ผ่านมา พล.อ.อนุพงษ์ ก็ได้จัดโผร่วมกับ พล.อ.ประยุทธ์ แน่นอนว่า บิ๊กหนุ่ย พล.ท.ดาว์พงษ์ รัตนสุวรรณ รอง เสธ.ทบ. เพื่อน ตท.12 ที่มีผลงานจากศึกเสื้อแดง ได้เป็น เสธ.ทบ. คู่ใจ เพื่อทำงานเข้าขาและเป็น 2 เกลอ ที่จะ "เต็มที่" กับรัฐบาล ปชป. ในการสู้ศึกกับ พ.ต.ท.ทักษิณ ชินวัตร อดีตนายกรัฐมนตรี และพลพรรคเสื้อแดง เพราะ พล.ท.ดาว์พงษ์ เมื่อเป็น เสธ.ทบ. ก็จะเป็นเลขาธิการ กอ.รมน. ด้วย เพราะ กอ.รมน. ถือเป็นเครื่องมือของทหารในทางการเมืองได้ แถมมีงบประมาณกว่า 8 พันล้านบาทให้ใช้เต็มที่”

Sources:
The Nation, “วง ในสีเขียว”, September, 2007 http://bit.ly/bDuf2N
Matichon Weekly, "ประยุทธ์" ยึด ผบ.ทบ. โผทหารฉบับ "เสือตะวันออก" จับตา "ป๋าป๊อก" กับความฝันหลังเกษียณ”, July 23, 2010
Matichon Weekly, มองแม่ทัพ 1 ทะลุ ผบ.ทบ. บูรพาพยัคฆ์ จูเนียร์ ฝัน ป๋า กับฝัน ป๊อก จาก พล.ม.3 ถึง พล.ร.7 และโบนัส "ฮ่องกง", July 30, 2010
Siam Intelligence, “เปิดโผย้ายทหาร 3 เหล่าทัพ พลเอกประยุทธ์ ผบ.ทบ.ชัดเจน”, July 28, 2010

Originally Posted by The_Ghost_Of_The_Moog

Is being head of the army in Thailand anything to do whatsoever with defending the country?

Sure- they bravely had their arses kicked by tiny Laos in a border skirmish back in 1987/8.

Whilst we're on the subject of the heroics of the current Thai army generals... when I'm down by Tha Chang and the Royal Navy Club, they always look so proud whilst pulling up in their Benz', the door opened by their drivers, crisp white uniforms with hundreds of medals... Always makes me wonder: medals for what??? The navy only every had 2 battles from what I can make out - the battle of Koh Chang where a crappy old French 'warship' defeated their entire navy and the French took over half of the country as a result... & the kidnapping of the PM when the army sunk their flagship... Medals for what? Pride for what? Their history is a fuking embarassment!

Rant over.

Feeling very irritable today...

Thailand's generals play musical chairs - Part 2 | Asian Correspondent


Thailand's generals play musical chairs - Part 2

Aug. 03 2010 - 08:30 am

By Saksith Saiyasombut,

This is the second part in a two-part series on the upcoming military command reshuffle. In part one, James Harriman has reflected on the new ranks below the commander-in-chief. Today, this post highlights the aspirants on the top army post.

Every September is the time where the Thai military faces the annual game of musical chairs, where the many high-ranking generals are eager for a promotion. With the upcoming retirement of the current commander-in-chief Gen Anupong Paochinda, the question of the successor reveals the still substantial political weight of the kingdom's highest ranking soldier.
But this year though, September can't come fast enough for some.

In fact, Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon has already set July 20 as the deadline for commanders of the armed forces to send in their reshuffle lists to the defence permanent secretary, Gen Apichart Penkitti. These lists could even be in Gen Prawit's hands before the month ends. According to the schedule, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva should be able to send the names for royal endorsement within August.

"Democrats In A Rush To Anoint Prayuth", by Wassana Nanuam, Bangkok Post, July 15, 2010

The government's favorite candidate for the top post is Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha, currently deputy commander-in-chief and a graduate of class 12 of the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School - this is where all future top commanders go through.
Like in many aspects in Thai society, interpersonal relationships and affiliation play a big role in determining the status of a person and his or her chances of being promoted.

To understand the importance of personal relationships and the graduation years inside the army to ascend through the ranks, I recommend reading Paul Chamber's lengthy, but in-depth essay on New Mandala. It also contains a handy list of all the current top army officers.
As Chambers has pointed out, Gen Anupong and Gen Prayuth were ex-commanders of the 21st Infranty Batallion of the Second Army Division, more commonly known as the "Queen's Guard" - a highly influential military unit that also have played a decisive part in the military crackdown against the anti-government red shirt protesters on May 19. This unit has also over the decades been actively supported by Privy Council president Gen Prem Tinsulanond.

Getting back to the government's intentions, one has to look back at the most recent red shirts protests. It is reported that the relationship between prime minister Abhisit had its rough patches since Gen Anupong has shown some hesitation to move against the protesters, while Gen Prayuth has maintained and even improved his ties to the government during the protests, so a promotion to the top rank can be seen as a reward for him.

With the potential appointment of Gen Prayuth comes also a long list of aspirants that are expected to take the seats below him. James Harriman has reflected on that aspect yesterday.

Even though the promotion for Gen Prayuth is almost certain, there are some musings that he might face some competition. Gen Piroon Phaeopolsong, currently army chief-of-staff, is considered to be the dark horse in the race for the next commander-in-chief.
In late July, Matichon Weekly has listed three reasons that could favor him for the top spot: Firstly, Gen Piroon hails from the same cavalry unit as Gen Prem, who himself would like to see one his of kind becoming commander-in-chief (แถมทั้งมีแรงดันจากบ้านสี่เสาเทเวศร์ ที่อยากให้ พล.อ.พิรุณ ซึ่งเป็นทหารม้าลูกป๋า ขึ้นเป็น ผบ.ทบ. สร้างประวัติศาสตร์ให้ทหารม้า มาเป็น ผบ.ทบ. อีกสักคน หลังจากที่ทหารม้าซบเซามาตั้งแต่หมดยุคป๋าเปรม) . Also, as both Matichon Weekly and the Bangkok Post (already last year) have pointed out:

Another advantage of Gen Piroon, who has advanced in his career from the cavalry, is that he is regarded as one of Gen Prem Tinsulanonda's proteges. The president of the Privy Council banked on Gen Piroon to make his dream of seeing the set-up of the new 3rd Cavalry Division in Khon Kaen come true. Gen Prem had reportedly made a remark to leading soldiers that, "If I see the 3rd Cavalry Division before I die, I will die peacefully.''

"PM Abhisit, Gen Prayuth and their common future", by Wassana Nanuam, Bangkok Post, December 12, 2009

Secondly, the 2nd Cavalry Division is regarded as one of the leading forces behind the storm on the red shirt protest site from the Sala Daeng area (the Silom intersection) and Gen Piroon, because of his role as army chief-of-staff and his cavalry origins, is regarded as one of the masterminds (กำลังทหารม้าจากกองพลทหารม้าที่ 2 รักษาพระองค์ (พล.ม.2 รอ.) ก็กลายเป็นพระเอก เพราะเป็นกำลังหลักในการบุกเข้ากระชับพื้นที่ด่านศาล าแดง ด่านใหญ่ที่สุดของคนเสื้อแดงที่เชื่อว่าอันตรายที่สุ ด ซึ่งก็มี พล.อ.พิรุณ ซึ่งเป็นทหารม้าในฐานะ เสธ.ทบ. ก็มีส่วนร่วมวางแผน ).

And lastly, Matichon names the 'Buriram connection' as a factor favoring Piroon, since he hails from the north-eastern province - same as influential and powerful politicians like Newin Chidchob, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party (key coalition partner of the government) and whose relatives are regional power brokers. (สิ่งที่ทำให้ พล.อ.พิรุณ ถูกจับตามองขึ้นมา ทั้งๆ ที่แรงแผ่ว ก็คือ "บุรีรัมย์ คอนเน็กชั่น" ด้วยเพราะเหตุที่เป็นคนบุรีรัมย์ เช่นเดียวกับนักการเมืองคนสำคัญ และฮ็อตที่สุด มีเพาเวอร์ที่สุดในยุคนี้ อย่าง นายเนวิน ชิดชอบ แกนนำพรรคภูมิใจไทย แถมซ้ำมีเครือญาติที่เป็นกำลังหลักในพื้นที่ของนายเน วิน).
Out of all three factors, the 'Buriram connection' appears to be weakest argument, since no political party has a say in military issues except the Democrat Party. Nevertheless, Piroon's Isaan origin could make him a more 'agreeable' candidate among all political factions in contrast to Gen Prayuth, who has not made big efforts to hide his opposition to Thaksin.

Also, Gen Piroon is a graduate of class 10, same as current commander-in-chief Gen Anupong - who is actually reported to favor Piroon to become his successor (ตัว พล.อ.อนุพงษ์ เองก็ไม่ขัดข้องหากเพื่อนรักที่เขาขุนมากับมือ จะขึ้นมาเป็น ผบ.ทบ. ก่อนปีหนึ่ง).

One factor that speaks in favor of Prayuth is that, since he is a class 12 graduate, his retirement will be in 2014. Piroon on the other hand, can only be commander-in-chief for one year. So, it is more likely that he will be pushed to be chairman of the Royal Army Advisory Board, a position that has little influence in the ranks.

So, in the more than likely event that Gen Prayuth becomes commander-in-chief, it will be seen as a further attempt to strengthen the ties between the Democrat-led government and the armed forces. The irony is though that with the impending dissolution case of Democrat Party, the next commander-in-chief will survive the current government and with a new one, the game of musical chairs starts anew.
Further reading & sources:

• Bangkok Post: Democrats in a rush to anoint Prayuth
• Bangkok Post: PM Abhisit, Gen Prayuth and their common future
• Bangkok Post: There's no sitting on the fence for Class 10 alumni
• Bangkok Post: Two key units tighten grip on armed forces
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Originally Posted by StrontiumDog

There is no political interference in the annual reshuffle of high raking officers in the armed forces, permanent secretary for defence Gen Apichart Penkitti affirmed on Tuesday.

This is both very Telling, although to any observer time bleedin' obvious.

In a true democracy, top Brass appointments are always approved by the ruling government. Because the Military reports to the government. And for that matter, the Secretary of Defence is never a bluddy General.

Of course in the quasi-military government that these fools have brought Thailand right back to, the opposite is the case. There can be no denying it now- in current day Thailand, the 'Government' reports to the Military. Cheers guys.

These idiotic Democrats have set this country back years. What a bunch of incompetent clowns.

Thanks for making that so clear, Sabang.

Top armed forces posts are decided by the government, not by the services themselves.

Bangkok Post : Gen Prayuth tipped to be army chief


Gen Prayuth tipped to be army chief

• Published: 3/08/2010 at 10:25 AM
• Online news: Breakingnews

Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha, deputy army chief, has been selected as the new national army boss replacing Gen Anupong Paojinda who retires at the end of September, reports said.

Local dailies reported on Tuesday morning that Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon had submitted the military reshuffle list to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva.

The prime minister is expected to forward the reshuffle list to His Majesty the King for royal endorsement soon.

According to the local newspapers, close aides and classmates of Gen Prayuth were also promoted to take up key positions in the army.

The local dailies said assistant army chief Gen Thirawat Bunyapradab was promoted to be deputy army chief, Army Region 1 commander Lt Gen Kanit Sapithak as assistant army chief, Army Region 4 commander Lt Gen Pichet Wisaijorn as assistant army chief, assistant army chief Gen Witch Thephassadin na Ayudhya as army advisory chairman and deputy army chief of staff Lt Gen Daopong Rattanasuwon as chief of staff.

Another key post is the permanent secretary for defence in which deputy supreme commander Gen Kittipong Keskowit was tipped to take up the job, the local dailies said.

Originally Posted by sabang

In a true democracy, top Brass appointments are always approved by the ruling government. Because the Military reports to the government. And for that matter, the Secretary of Defence is never a bluddy General. Of course in the quasi-military government that these fools have brought Thailand right back to, the opposite is the case. There can be no denying it now- in current day Thailand, the 'Government' reports to the Military. Cheers guys. These idiotic Democrats have set this country back years. What a bunch of incompetent clowns.

Agreed except for the last sentence.
It is status quo, it has never been any different so no setting back. Just take a look at the number of retired high ranking military officers that has a parliament seat as a thanks for their previous services. I don't believe their was less of them under Thaksin.

PM: Military Reshuffle List Submitted for Royal Endorsement
3 August 2010

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said he has submitted the annual military reshuffle list for royal endorsement.

Once endorsed, the appointments will come into effect on October 1.

Army Chief-of-Staff General Prayut Chanocha is tipped to take the post of army chief.

thailandoutlook.tv

Originally Posted by sabang

Of course in the quasi-military government that these fools have brought Thailand right back to, the opposite is the case. There can be no denying it now- in current day Thailand, the 'Government' reports to the Military. Cheers guys.

always been the case, it's a Kingdom for your memory, not a republic, and historically military and kings have always been strongly bonded. The civil government is simply a "sidekick" or a representant of the people.

Originally Posted by sabang

These idiotic Democrats have set this country back years. What a bunch of incompetent clowns.

stop blaming the democrats for everything, they have inherited a situation created by Thaksin. Want to blame someone ? blame Thaksin for not doing the right things when he had a chance. We wouldn't be there if he didn't destroy every nascent independent institutions with his iron fist. He broke the 1997 constitution as predicted by academics in the late 90s (I wonder if DrB got the memo on that one)

Thailand's PM & Military Unite After Crushing Reds
Richard S. Ehrlich
Tuesday, 3 August 2010

BANGKOK, Thailand -- Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and the military are displaying a public show of unity, as the army prepares to install a hawkish commander after they defeated on May 19 a nine-week insurrection by "terrorist" Red Shirts.

Army Commander-in-Chief Gen. Anupong Paojinda is widely perceived as supporting Mr. Abhisit and they appear to agree that the general, when he retires on Oct. 1, can promote Deputy Army Commander-in-Chief Gen. Prayuth Chanocha to take over Thailand's U.S.-trained military.

Gen. Anupong is presented by colleagues and Thai analysts as a relatively dovish commander who was reluctant to use heavy firepower against the Red Shirts' barricades, because he wanted to retire without his countrymen's blood on his hands.

During clashes in April and May, the military used armored personnel carriers and assault rifles to clear the Reds' barricades from Bangkok's streets, resulting in a nine-week total of 90 people dead -- mostly civilians -- and 1,900 injured.

The Red Shirts are officially known as the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship.

Their insurrection failed in its bid to force an immediate dissolution of Parliament and a nationwide election that could have been won by allies of their thrice-elected former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra.

Mr. Thaksin was ousted in a 2006 military coup, staged by Gen. Anupong and other top generals.

Mr. Thaksin is an international fugitive after being sentenced to two years imprisonment for conflict of interest and, in a separate corruption case, had $1.8 billion of his wealth seized by the government.

His Canadian lawyer, Robert Amsterdam, said in a July statement that Mr. Abhisit's government is "illegitimate" and, since April, has been ruling Thailand through a "new military junta" and "military dictatorship" under a state of emergency.

Thailand's response to Mr. Thaksin is expected to harden after Gen. Prayuth's likely promotion.

Gen. Prayuth, 56, is regarded as a hawk, especially against Mr. Thaksin, and would oppose any attempt by Mr. Thaksin's Red Shirt allies to form a new government.

"If Gen. Prayuth does get his promotion, it will be seen as reward for his service during the latest campaign against the Red Shirts, aside from the fact that the deputy army chief is actually in line to succeed Gen.

Anupong," the English-language Bangkok Post reported on July 15.

The report named several other hard-line military officers who also may be rewarded in September, partly because of their performance against the Reds:

-- Dapong Ratanasuwan, a "hawkish" deputy chief-of-staff and a "strategic planner of the operation to contain the Red Shirts, could be promoted to the rank of general as chief-of-staff."

-- Gen. Wit Devahasdin na Ayutthaya may become deputy army commander.

-- Lt Gen Thanongsak Apirakyothin, commander of the Third Army Region, might rise to be an assistant commander.

-- Lt Gen Pichet Wisaijon, Fourth Army Region commander, could also be an assistant commander.

-- First Army Chief Kanit Sapitak, however, was not expected to be promoted, partially because some considered him too passive when the Red Shirts became aggressive. But he will be allowed to remain in his current position, according to the report.

Thailand's military officers and troops are also dangerously split -- reflecting political rivalries and feuds over promotions -- but little public information is available to indict how many military men are unreliable.

Those suspected of not being loyal to the top generals and to Mr. Abhisit are described as "watermelons," a colorful reference to wearing a green uniform on the outside, while internally favoring the Reds.

Mr. Abhisit, who took office in December 2008, needs to consider the support of Gen. Anupong and Gen. Prayuth, because the military has staged 18 coups and attempted coups since the 1930s whenever it was displeased.

The leaders of the 2006 military coup, however, granted themselves amnesty for their putsch, and Mr. Abhisit has not sought to overturn their immunity.

The military also appears pleased that Mr. Abhisit increased the defense budget, and generously allowed several controversial weapons procurement contracts.

"Since the army is the only tool the Abhisit government has against former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and the Red Shirts, there is no question it has to keep the military happy," the English-language Bangkok Post reported earlier in July.

The politicized military also wields a lucrative and influential media arm, owning more than 200 radio frequencies, a TV station and a TV channel's concession.

Mr. Abhisit, meanwhile, has repeatedly denounced the Red Shirts' leaders as "terrorists."

The Reds brand him a "puppet" of the military.

The prime minister, however, says the military used armored personnel carriers and assault rifles in "self defense" against violent Reds who launched grenade and rifle attacks from behind their burning street barricades.

Mr. Abhisit says those unidentified armed fighters are still on the loose.

The military has not staged any victorious parades after crushing the Reds, perhaps mindful that the civilian government should now have the public spotlight.

During the crackdown against the Red Shirts in April and May, grim-faced uniformed military officers frequently appeared on TV to speak to the public, prompting some people to question why Mr. Abhisit was not more visible.

The prime minister was also criticized for sheltering inside a military base in Bangkok for several weeks during the Reds' insurrection -- eating and sleeping near Gen. Anupong's office -- apparently fearing assassination.

Today, the military's image is still a sensitive topic.

Official TV broadcasts, and other displays, now include flashbacks of armed soldiers trying to restore peace to Bangkok's Red-infested anarchistic streets, while valiantly ushering innocent civilians out of harm's way.

But when a new "Positive Network" group of people from advertising, public relations, media agencies and TV associations, produced a video titled "Apologize Thailand" in mid-July, problems immediately arose.

The video included graphic footage of clashes between the army and the Reds, along with other troubling aspects of Thai society, and was banned from being broadcast.

Its narrator asks in part: "Did we do anything wrong? Did we handle anything too harshly? Did we listen to only one side of the story? Did we perform our duties? Did we really think of people? Were we corrupt?"

The narrator advises: "If there was anyone to blame, it would be all of us. Apologize Thailand."

Accompanied by a moody piano playing the New Year's Eve song, "Auld Lang Syne," the "Apologize Thailand" video can be viewed on YouTube.com ( ).

After Thailand was internationally cited for censoring thousands of websites, plus other media, Mr. Abhisit said "Apologize Thailand" could be broadcast on TV, but television censors demanded it be "corrected" and toned-down before it could air.

Thailand's "military is first and foremost an armed bureaucracy, which does not fight wars," according to respected analyst and author Duncan McCargo.

"Instead, military officers have preferred to devote their energies to the more interesting and satisfying professions of business and politics. Their core businesses have been smuggling, logging, and profiting from the country's natural resources," wrote Mr. McCargo, a professor of Southeast Asian Politics at Leeds University, England.

"In politics, they have consistently claimed for themselves high political office -- many of Thailand's prime ministers have had a military background -- and a share in the running of the country."

One of the most glaring displays of Mr. Abhisit's hands-off approach to the army's questionable activities is his lack of interest in pursuing complaints that the military wasted $24 million buying empty plastic toy boxes, which they repeatedly insisted were bomb detectors.

Troops waved the empty boxes, each decorated with a toy antennae, at people and places in the south, and seized several innocent Muslims as possible insurgents while missing actual bombs which killed several troops.

Earlier this year, the hundreds of British-made GT-200s were exposed as a fraud, and belatedly denounced by the government, but the military continued to use them while searching for bombs in the south, where more than 4,100 people have died on all sides since 2004 in a worsening Muslim separatist insurgency.

"The bogus bomb detecting GT-200 device" is only one of several "procurement scandals which the army still cannot shake off," said a Bangkok Post editorial on July 23.

Buddhist majority Thailand is a major non-NATO U.S. ally, and a valued partner in Southeast Asia against international terrorism and other global threats.

"In the immediate aftermath of the fall of Saddam Hussein, Royal Thai forces contributed to medical assistance programs in Iraq," said U.S. Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs, William J. Burns, on July 16 during his visit to Bangkok.

"In Afghanistan, Thai forces were responsible for the construction of a critical runway at Bagram Airbase, and provided medical services to allied troops." Mr. Burns said.

Pointing at Thailand's instability and lack of free speech, Mr. Burns asked in his speech:

"How can Thailand build confidence in its economy, or in its democratic development, with violence in the streets? How can it achieve reconciliation, and pursue political reform, if freedom of expression is restricted?"

Mr. Abhisit and the military are keeping one-fifth of the country under a "state of emergency," which includes a ban on political gatherings of more than five people, detention of suspects for 30 days without charge, censorship of media including Internet, and other harsh restrictions.

"Currently there are still all kinds of movements, such as secret meetings, that have made us more cautious," Mr. Abhisit said, justifying the emergency in 16 provinces, including Bangkok, though the decree has been lifted elsewhere in the country.

"Signs of unrest remain, and efforts are being made to sow divisions," Defense Ministry Permanent Secretary, Gen. Apichart Penkitti, said on July 20, echoing Mr. Abhisit.

The emergency was imposed in April to deal with the Red Shirts' insurrection.

Most of their leaders are now in jail, alongside about 800 other suspects, while many sympathizers remain in hiding.

scoop.co.nz

Bangkok Post : Prayuth sets agenda


Prayuth sets agenda

ANALYSIS: The government is said to have brought forward the annual army reshuffle to ensure its choice of the next commander is confirmed

• Published: 4/08/2010 at 12:00 AM
• Newspaper section: News

Deputy army chief Prayuth Chan-ocha is pledging to steer the army away from politics once he takes the helm.

I will try to keep the army out of politics - GEN PRAYUTH CHAN-OCHA DEPUTYARMYCHIEF

Gen Prayuth has been named on a proposed reshuffle list to succeed Anupong Paojinda as army commander-in-chief when he retires at the end of September.

It is widely expected that Gen Prayuth's promotion to army chief will be confirmed later this week.

He said yesterday that although he wished to keep the army clear of politics, it was difficult given the continuing political and internal security environment, as the army is an arm of the state.

"[But] I will try to keep the army out of politics and refocus on its work, including dealing with southern violence and the situation on the country's borders," said Gen Prayuth, a member of Class 12 of the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy.

"Troops have returned to the barracks but we are still needed to keep peace and order under the present situation."

This year's army reshuffle list was completed earlier than usual and forwarded to His Majesty the King yesterday for endorsement after having been reviewed by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva.

Many believe the rush is to ensure Gen Prayuth's place as the next army chief. He is said to enjoy close relations with the serving government.

Gen Prayuth reaches the official retirement age of 60 years in 2014.

The proposed reshuffle includes few surprises apart from Khanit Sapitak, the incumbent commander of the 1st Army.

Although he will be promoted to a full general, Lt Gen Khanit is expected to be given a position as a special adviser, which is expected to be a disappointment for him.

As 1st Army commander, he was automatically in contention for the post of assistant army chief - one of the top five positions in the army.

Lt Gen Khanit is said to have lost the post to Lt Gen Thanongsak Apirakyothin, the incumbent commander of the 3rd Army, who has played a key role in dealing with the red shirt movement over the past two years.

An army source said Gen Khanit's inability to deal efficiently with the red shirt protests was one of the reasons he failed to secure the post.

The success of the military operation to end the red shirt occupation of Ratchaprasong intersection on May19 has been attributed largely to deputy chief of staff Dapong Rattanasuwan.

The reshuffle sees Lt Gen Dapong appointed army chief of staff and made a full general.

"Lt Gen Dapong, a close friend of Gen Prayuth, also helped with the reshuffle. That's probably why Lt Gen Khanit was blocked [from one of the top five posts]," the source said.

The source said Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon had promised to give Lt Gen Khanit one of the top five positions in next year's reshuffle.

"It is not about him having done anything wrong. It is just not his time," the source said.

Lt Gen Khanit yesterday denied he had a conflict with Lt Gen Dapong, saying he could work in any position.

"I am a soldier and I am prepared to do what is assigned to me," he said.

The source said Gen Prayuth would probably have to deal with two major rivalries once he takes over - the first being between Lt Gen Khanit and Lt Gen Dapong.

The other involves Paiboon Khoomchaya, deputy chief of the 1st Army, and Udomdet Sitabutr, who is slated to take over the 1st Army command after the reshuffle. The two had been vying for the post.

Army chief Anupong Paojinda yesterday dismissed criticism that the reshuffle favoured the Burapha Payak (Tiger of the East) force.

He said that was media speculation meant to suggest disunity in the army.

"That is irrational and untrue," Gen Anupong said.

"I have adhered to a very simple principle throughout my three years in office, which is never to appoint one particular group of people.

"I can tell you that if we want the army to stay united, we must not appoint just one group to important positions."

Gen Anupong, Gen Prayuth and some of their close aides belong to the Burapha Payak force which oversees the eastern border from its base in Prachin Buri.

The reshuffle list forwarded to His Majesty also called for the promotion of Thirawat Boonyapradap to deputy army commander, Pichet Wisaijorn to assistant army chief, Lt Gen Thawatchai Samutsakhon to 2nd Army commander, Wannathip Wongwai to 3rd Army commander, and Udomchai Thammasarorat to 4th Army commander.

Thai PM Approves Military Promotions
GRANT PECK / AP WRITER
Tuesday, August 3, 2010

BANGKOK — Thailand's prime minister on Tuesday approved the military's annual promotions list, with a hardline opponent of anti-government protesters reportedly taking the army's top post, amid fears that political violence could re-ignite.

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva told reporters that he has submitted the list for King Bhumibol Adulyadej's endorsement, normally a formality.



Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha meets the press.
(Source: pattayadailynews.com)

Two months of demonstrations by so-called Red Shirt protesters earlier this year left about 90 people dead and more than 1,400 hurt. The Red Shirts, mostly supporters of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, were demanding that Abhisit, whom they accuse of coming to power illegitimately, call early elections.Thailand's military enjoys great political influence, which has increased since staging a 2006 coup ousting Thaksin, who was accused of corruption and disrespect to the monarchy. The coup was meant to restore stability, but instead increased social and political divisiveness, leading to repeated and sometime violent political protests.

Details of the reshuffle are not officially released until after the royal endorsement. But according to the Bangkok newspaper The Nation and other local media, Gen Prayuth Chan-ocha will become army commander, an appointment that has been widely anticipated. Prayuth is seen as a hardline opponent of the Red Shirts.

Prayuth replaces Gen Anupong Paochinda, who is retiring. The post of army commander is the country's most powerful military position.

Other promotions appeared to put allies of Prayuth in positions of power and influence. The changes take effect Oct. 1.

Abhisit, whose Democrat Party has vigorously opposed the self-exiled Thaksin, has closely allied itself with the military. Critics charge that Abhisit came to power illegitimately in December 2008 when the military applied pressure to lawmakers to defect from a pro-Thaksin government and join a coalition led by the Democrats.

Because they believe he came to office unfairly, the Red Shirts had demanded that Abhisit call early elections.

During the Red Shirt protests, Abhisit took refuge at an army base in Bangkok's northern outskirts, and by invoking a state of emergency gave most authority for restoring the peace to the army.

The Red Shirts claim that Thaksin was deposed because his strong popular support — he won two landslide election victories—posed a threat to the power of the traditional ruling class, including aristocrats, big business interests and the military.

irrawaddy.org