Bangkok: Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, emphasized the importance of modern military reforms and collaboration with the armed forces following an inspection of the army. The call for structural adjustments, increased conscription roles, and improved welfare for military personnel signifies a strategic shift aimed at enhancing efficiency and public engagement.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham conveyed a sense of warmth and honor in working with the army, highlighting the organization’s discipline and potential, particularly during flood relief efforts in Chiang Rai Province. Discussions with army personnel centered on adapting military structures to contemporary challenges, with a focus on engineering units and voluntary conscription policies that extend beyond the army to include the navy and air force. This approach seeks to align conscripts’ roles with their geographic and familial contexts, promoting convenience and relevance.
Mr. Phumtham a
lso addressed the need for technological integration and personnel reduction within the military, stressing the importance of welfare improvements for junior soldiers and non-commissioned officers. Collaborations with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and the National Housing Authority are being considered to enhance living conditions and allowances for these groups. Despite current economic constraints, Mr. Phumtham expressed confidence in achieving concrete improvements, outlining a commitment to initiate policy changes promptly.
Reflecting on his evolving perspective toward the military since his student days in the early 1970s, Mr. Phumtham noted the necessity for both military and civilian sectors to adapt to a rapidly changing world. His interactions with military commanders have fostered optimism about future collaboration, although further discussions are needed to refine strategies.
When questioned about the government’s trust in military intentions and the cabinet’s stance on t
he Defence Ministry Organization Act draft amendment, Mr. Phumtham clarified that the draft requires further review by relevant agencies. He acknowledged past misunderstandings regarding the draft’s status and emphasized the need for realistic considerations of situational and environmental factors before implementing any legislative changes.
The proposed amendment includes contentious provisions granting the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers the authority to suspend military commanders attempting to seize power. However, Mr. Phumtham admitted to not having reviewed the draft thoroughly and refrained from speculating on its practical application.
Source: Thai News Agency