In an unexpected announcement, the Phuket Governor has been removed from his position and transferred to Phetchaburi in a decision believed to have been influenced by the high numbers on covid-19 on the island.
The order was made on Wednesday, signaling the end of Phakaphong Tavipatana’s reign in Phuket and is awaiting the official royal endorsement.
It is part of a three-way swap that will see the Chaiyaphum Governor moved to Phuket and the Phetchaburi Governor moved to Chaiyaphum.
There were no reasons given for the transfers during the brief announcement, leading to speculation that the move has happened due to the widespread number of coronavirus infections across Phuket.
The southern island has 190 covid-19 infections, the second-most in the country behind Bangkok. It also has by far the highest rate of infections per 100,000 people with 45.96, almost twice that of Bangkok’s 23.42.
Phuket is currently in a complete lockdown with all 17 subdistricts in a state of lockdown with no movement allowed between each.
Mr. Phakaphong thanked his team in Phuket for their hard work and said he was confident thy would continue good work in battling the coronavirus after he left.
He also said he has done his best during his time in the position but accepted the order to move to Phetchaburi.
Source: Bangkok Post | Photo: The Phuket News
