Governor of Prachin Buri rescinds the appointment of Chinese consultant
In a recent turn of events, the governor of Prachin Buri, Weerapun Dee-on, scrapped the appointment of Chinese businessman, Zhu Juncheng, as his adviser following a public outcry and criticism from Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
Appearing on television to address the situation, Weerapun revealed that Zhu’s appointment was aimed at readying Prachin Buri for potential inclusion in Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), a significant investment zone spanning Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, and Rayong. All eyes were on Prachin Buri due to the influx of approximately 300 billion baht worth of investment projects, mainly from Chinese and Taiwanese sources.
The Chamber of Commerce suggested Zhu for the advisory role based on his proficiency in Thai and Chinese, which authorities believed would prove beneficial for fostering international cooperation. However, Zhu's appointment on April 21 was brought to light on the CSI LA Facebook page on April 30, causing a stir online, with users questioning the prioritization of local interests with a foreign adviser present.
Anutin was quick to criticize the appointment, labeling it inappropriate and apologizing for the concerns it had raised. He commented that if there were hidden interests, they would not have resulted in a public appointment. Nevertheless, for the sake of impartiality, Anutin emphasized that the matter was about appropriateness.
On May 1, the controversy came to a head when Weerapun terminated Zhu's appointment, citing public pressure and the need to uphold fairness. This incident shed light on the ongoing tension between regional economic aims and fears of foreign influence in Thai policymaking.
- Zhu Juncheng, the Chinese businessman, was aiming to prepare Prachin Buri for potential inclusion in Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), as revealed by Governor Weerapun, following his appointment as an adviser that was later scrapped due to public outcry.
- Prachin Buri has seen approximately 300 billion baht worth of investment projects, primarily from Chinese and Taiwanese sources, making it the center of attention in recent times.
- Users on the CSI LA Facebook page questioned the prioritization of local interests with a foreign adviser present, causing a stir online following the revelation of Zhu's appointment on April 21.
- Weerapun terminated Zhu's appointment on May 1, citing public pressure and the need to uphold fairness, highlighting the ongoing tension between regional economic aims and fears of foreign influence in Thai policymaking.
