Dirty

I have rarely commented on politics but upon hearing the transfer of Thailand's Police Commissioner Seripisut Temiyavej, I couldn't help but cry foul.

This of course has to do with the dirty world of politics.

He was promoted to the position of Commissioner during the previous interim government in 2007. His integrity, honesty and no-nonsense approach were primary reasons to the powerful appointment. Never one to be afraid of cracking down on the influential shady individuals namely Por Pratunam, reputed mob boss of a large gambling den in the Pratunam area.

He led the sting with the collusion of fellow senior officers. A team of commandos scaled the high walls and stormed the compound to arrest patrons, henchmen, and those involved in the illegal operation.

It was one of the most daring moves by a high ranking police officer which won over plaudits, and at the same time scrutinised upon by colleagues, deemed to be on the payroll of the godfather himself.

Having an excellent track record, he was handpicked by post coup Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont to replace incumbent Kowit Wattana, who was accused of neglecting his duties in the 2006 Bangkok New Year's Eve bombing.

With the return of the old power clique, it is little wonder of his removal from the force's apex. From his appointment till present, Seripisut has not put a foot wrong and the injustice of his transfer has the word 'dirty' written all over it.

The former Police Commissioner has vowed to take his case to court on charges of wrongful dismissal if there is a lack of transparency on his controversial transfer to an inactive post.

The power play of scum politics.