Conflict along the border encourages belief in Boonsin's power
The discussion surrounding the possibility of extending the tenure of Lt Gen Boonsin, also known as "Big Kung", as commander of the Second Army Region, has gained traction. Lt Gen Boonsin, who is set to retire in September, has been seen supporting troops and laying down strategies ahead of his departure.
Deputy Defence Minister Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit is open to the idea of extending Lt Gen Boonsin's term, but is considering the potential impact on career progression within the army. However, there is a strong tradition in the Thai military against short-term extensions for commanders, which is seen as important for maintaining internal discipline and cohesion within the command structure.
Gen Nattaphon has stated that Lt Gen Boonsin and his deputies have carried out their duties with full dedication and capability during the recent clashes. Mr. Panitan, a security analyst, suggested extending Lt Gen Boonsin's service for a limited period to see through key talks or appointing a successor immediately while retaining him as a special adviser with meaningful responsibilities.
Supporters argue that Lt Gen Boonsin's battlefield experience and familiarity with the situation are vital to ensuring stability. However, some experts, including Assoc Prof Wanwichit Boonprong, a political scientist at Rangsit University, have warned against the creation of a "personality-based" military culture. Extending Lt Gen Boonsin's term could be seen as a break in military tradition, according to Assoc Prof Wanwichit, and might create internal tensions.
The academic expressed concerns about an extension potentially fueling internal disputes, undermining the army's cohesion, and politicising the command structure. There are experienced officers with a deep familiarity with the area, although they might operate with different styles. Any decision regarding Lt Gen Boonsin's term extension will take into account the broader needs of the army, according to Gen Nattaphon.
In principle, Mr. Panitan said, "In principle, you should not change horses midstream." However, he also emphasized the importance of continuity during sensitive negotiations, such as those involving the Thai-Cambodian border dispute. Security analyst Panitan Wattanayagorn suggested a short-term extension, ideally no more than six months, to ensure continuity during upcoming Thai-Cambodian border negotiations and General Border Committee talks.
In summary, short-term extensions are not common practice in Thailand’s military tradition due to concerns over cohesion and politicization, but may be considered under special circumstances to ensure leadership continuity during critical security or diplomatic operations. The decision to extend Lt Gen Boonsin's tenure will likely weigh the benefits of continuity against the potential risks of disrupting the traditional military command structure.
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