Village Chiefs Association Submits Letter to Pheu Thai, Demands Protection of Local Officials' Reputation Amid Parliamentary Criticism, Pledges Support for Drug Suppression Policy
Thailand's Village Chiefs Association submitted a letter to Pheu Thai on May 6 demanding protection of local officials' reputations following parliamentary criticism, while pledging continued support for the government's drug suppression po
On May 6, 2026, the Association of Village Chiefs and Community Leaders of Thailand, led by Yongyos Gaewkhiaw, submitted a letter to the Pheu Thai Party with MP Thongli Meehinkong of Roi Et District 6 and former Northeastern Village Chiefs Association chairman as the official representative. The letter aims to protect the reputation of village chiefs, community leaders, and local government personnel following criticism from an opposition MP on April 30, 2026, whose remarks negatively impacted the image of local officials nationwide. The association requested that discussions about local government staff be factual, respectful, and constructive to preserve the morale of officials serving close to communities. Thongli stated that as a former Northeastern Village Chiefs Association chairman with prior government experience, he confirms that village chiefs, community leaders, and community representatives nationwide play vital roles in community welfare, maintaining peace and order, and implementing state policies. He specifically highlighted drug prevention and suppression policies from the Thai Rak Thai era, which achieved tangible success through cooperation of local leaders in monitoring, supporting, and strengthening communities. He also praised the Pheu Thai government's drug suppression efforts over the past two years and expressed support for collaborative efforts among all sectors in welfare and community well-being.