The regime will tackle corruption and all forms of unfair treatment against members of the public, army chief Apirat Kongsompong said in his new capacity as secretary-general of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO).
Apirat: Targets all unfair treatment
Gen Apirat's remarks were publicised by Col Sirichan Ngathong, deputy spokeswoman for the NCPO, after the body met on Monday.
Gen Apirat also stressed the importance of the NCPO's work in helping to grow the so-called Thai Niyom Yangyuen project to help debtors and farmers across the country.
As for the NCPO's role in the coming general election, Gen Apirat said officials must study order No.13/2561 regarding compliance with the organic law on political parties, as well as the guidelines the Election Commission (EC) has set on political activities.
A good understanding of these two matters is required to ensure the effective enforcement of the NCPO's order and compliance with the EC's regulations, Gen Apirat said.
Lt Gen Narongphan Jitkaew, the new commander of the 1st Army, took office yesterday and vowed to maintain protection of the monarchy and sovereignty.
Adm Ruechai Ruddit, the new navy chief, said the navy would stay politically neutral.
"Our commander has stressed the importance of us maintaining political neutrality and never taking sides in political affairs," said Adm Ruechai.
Asked if he was concerned by former prime minister Chavalit Yongchaiyudh's decision to express his political opinions recently, which might spark conflict ahead of the February election, Adm Ruechai said he thought Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha should be the one to answer this question.
"He [Gen Chavalit] is a senior figure while I am far less senior. As such, I don't wish to criticise him," he said.
Gen Chavalit, along with red-shirt United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship chairman Jatuporn Prompan, said last week that a caretaker government should be formed, the 2017 constitution should be replaced by the 1997 charter, and finally an election be held to find a new and elected government.
Adm Ruechai also affirmed his intention to ensure transparency and accountability in the navy's procurement of weapons.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining the navy's unity.
