Union wants Weerasak to quit

Hundreds of Tourism Authority of Thailand staff yesterday called for Weerasak Kowsurat to resign as chairman, citing his alleged abuse of power and interference in management.

"We strongly urge Weerasak to reconsider his leadership," said Prasert Vorapitak, president of the TAT's labour union.

Disgruntled employees from around the country gathered in front of the Tourism and Sports Ministry, where Weerasak was scheduled to chair a TAT board meeting.

They submitted a letter to Weerasak's representative complaining that the former tourism minister had meddled in management, particularly regarding the marketing budget.

Prasert said Weerasak failed to provide a vision for improving the tourism industry and guiding the tourism industry out of the crisis as expected.

The union will not set a deadline but will keep watching to see whether he makes the move, he said.

One union member alleged Weerasak had awarded projects to some companies without proposals or any documents.

Pensuda Priaram, deputy governor for administration and acting governor, is being ordered to approve some tourism projects, the source said.

Weerasak vehemently rebutted the union's accusations.

He told reporters before the TAT board meeting he would not step down, but rather would consider the union's complaints.

He said he was surprised by the union's action, as he had tried to help the employees win bonuses. He complained of becoming a target in a game.

"I have no intention of intervening in internal management," he said, visibly shaking with emotion.

"I only check on the progress of tourism projects and ask if there are obstacles. I've not issued orders."

After the meeting, Weerasak said the board had agreed to establish a TAT governor-recruitment committee led by Tourism and Sports Ministry permanent secretary Sasithara Pichaichannarong.

The other four members are Tourism Council of Thailand chairman Kongkrit Hiranyakit, Khanchai Vichakkana, Sopaphan Amatadeja and Methavee Tanantanaphong.