Defence Chief Vows Caretaker Govt Won’t Weaken Border Security

Picture courtesy of Workpoint.

The Deputy Defence Minister, General Nattapon Nakpanich, has sought to allay concerns that the country’s caretaker government status could weaken national security, insisting the military remains fully prepared to respond to any situation along the Cambodian border.

Speaking to reporters, Gen. Nattapon said the Ministry of Defence had already delegated powers and established clear rules of engagement, ensuring that military operations would not be affected by the government’s limited mandate.

Asked whether the dissolution of the government might disrupt the work of the Thai–Cambodian Border Situation Administration Centre, the minister stressed that national defence and sovereignty were not at risk. He noted that General Songwit Noonpakdee, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, had already authorised the military to act decisively and independently should circumstances demand.

“The policy of national defence remains unchanged. Whatever happens, the armed forces are ready, especially if tensions arise with Cambodia. I can confirm that we remain fully prepared,” Gen. Nattapon declared.

While border security and the military’s defensive role are unaffected, he acknowledged that clarity was still needed on broader foreign policy matters and diplomatic activities, which require cabinet-level decisions.

  Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-08-31