Theerapat denies Interior Ministry rift after social media clash
Department of Public Works and Town Planning chief Theerapat Kasemratana defends the agency's social media response against former permanent secretary
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Theerapat addresses the Department of Public Works' social media rebuttal against Suthipong Juljarern
- Insists there is no internal conflict within the Ministry of Interior, focusing instead on staff morale
- Clarifies that the online activity was not ordered by the current permanent secretary
- Urges unity and constructive cooperation to best serve the public interest
On October 15, 2026, at 08:45 AM at Government House, Mr. Theerapat Kasemratana, Director-General of the Department of Public Works and Town Planning, addressed the controversy surrounding the department's official Facebook page. The page had previously issued a response disagreeing with remarks made by former Interior Permanent Secretary Suthipong Juljarern regarding the Ministry of Interior, prompting the current administration to step forward and defend the dignity of the ministry and its officials.
Mr. Theerapat acknowledged that the former permanent secretary's interview was a personal matter, but emphasized that numerous civil servants still require encouragement and strong morale to perform their duties. The Ministry of Interior oversees a wide array of responsibilities, ranging from flood management to public administration, requiring all departments to coordinate closely and support one another in serving citizens across the country.
Government agencies utilizing official social media platforms to publicly counter remarks made by former high-ranking officials is an uncommon occurrence in Thai bureaucracy. It highlights a shifting communication strategy where institutions actively seek to manage public perception and defend organizational reputation. However, this approach also sparks debate regarding the appropriate boundaries for institutional channels when addressing internal governance differences.
When asked whether the online statements were directed by current Interior Permanent Secretary Arphotphan Samphanrat, Mr. Theerapat denied any such orders. He explained that the action stemmed from a desire to adapt working styles to modern times. While advice from former officials is normal, the primary objective was to prevent any decline in the morale of current personnel so they could continue delivering uninterrupted public services.
Addressing public criticism over the use of official agency pages for such rebuttals, Mr. Theerapat noted that the agency acknowledges the feedback and recognizes the need to restore tranquility. He reiterated that every organization faces challenges that require cooperative solutions rather than mutual blame or prolonged disputes that could hinder overall operational efficiency.
Mr. Theerapat concluded by firmly stating that there is no underlying conflict within the Ministry of Interior. All departments continue to work in tandem on disaster relief, public welfare, and land management, with the ultimate goal of fostering harmony and achieving the greatest benefit for the public.
Source: Khaosod Politics
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