Klong Toei director removed following leftlet controversy
The director of Klong Toei district has been removed from his post after arresting 20 students arrested for handing out leaflets urging people to vote.
Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin on Friday signed off on Wanchai Thanomsak's removal, but was quick to rule any political motivation. He said he had moved quickly to quell tension, as some taxpayers thought arresting the students was too harsh. Bang Kor Leam district director Duangporn Wattakavanit will replace Wanchai as of Monday. Wanchai arrested the 20 university students as they were posting fliers in Sukhumvit sois 38 and 40 on March 26. He subsequently lodged a police complaint against them, citing violation of the city's cleanliness preservation law - for posting bills and campaigning in public places without permission. "Although a factfinding committee has been set up to oversee the case, [Wanchai's] removal will help restore normality," said Apriak, adding that the incoming Khlong Toei director was female and might be able to rise above political uncertainties. A source in the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration yesterday said the governor wanted to prevent the matter from being linked with political issues, because the city governor is a Democrat, one of the parties that urged people not to vote in last Sunday's election. Jeerawan Prasomsap The Nation
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