Deputy PM Yuthasak vows to revamp security policy

THE NATION

BANGKOK: -- Deputy Prime Minister Yuthasak Sasiprapha yesterday pledged to revamp the country's security strategies in the face of global changes, saying his first priority was to organise a National Security Council (NSC) meeting within a couple of weeks following a long lapse.

"I was surprised to hear that the NSC has not convened a meeting for almost five months," he said. Yesterday was the deputy premier's first day at work.

Yuthasak said he would need time to familiarise himself with his new responsibilities, which involves overseeing seven ministries and five agencies with a focus on security affairs.

He said he had already had dealings with NSC secretary-general Wichean Potephosree in his previous job as defence minister, though he would not say if Wichean would be replaced.

As for intelligence affairs, he said he was keen to review progress made in coordinating with foreign intelligence agencies. He said he wanted to keep his finger on the pulse so the premier can be given up-to-date information every week.

Yuthasak added that he was also planning to boost the role of Army intelligence, adding that he would name the military officers he wanted to help draw up a new security blueprint.

In regard to insurgency in the South, he said he would ask the Army to update the prime minister on the region in its capacity as a contributing agency in the Internal Security Operations Command.

He said he expected the authorities to work in an integrated manner to quell violence.

-- The Nation 2012-01-27

"I was surprised to hear that the NSC has not convened a meeting for almost five months," he said.

It's the Democrat's fault.

.

They are going to have a meeting in a couple of weeks....I feel safer already. I expect the first PowerPoint slide shown at the meeting will be tourism stats.

There has not been a meeting of the NSC for nearly 5 months.

Let me think back to how long the PTP have been in power.

Goodness me it must have been 5 or 6 months now.

In regard to insurgency in the South, he said he would ask the Army to update the prime minister on the region in its capacity as a contributing agency in the Internal Security Operations Command.

I'm sure this surprisingly elaborate plan will result in a quick resolution of the insurgency. I see a new power player coming, Chalerm must be trembling already.

If looks could kill.