The Problem of Obtaining the Positions of Village Headman and Subdistrict Headman Under the Local Administration Act, B.E. 2457

Abstract

This Research article aims to examine the selection process and tenure of village headmen and Subdistrict Headman under the Local Administration Act B.E. 2457 (1914) and its latest amendment in B.E. 2552 (2009). The study design utilizes a review of relevant documents and research. It also analyzes relevant concepts and theories while comparing the tenure systems of local leaders in Thailand with those in other countries. The study focuses on the legal frameworks of nations operating under two major legal traditions: Common Law and Civil Law. The objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of Thailand’s current system and propose reforms that align with the country’s evolving social, cultural, and political context. The findings indicate that village headmen and Subdistrict Headman play a crucial role in local administration as state representatives responsible for maintaining public welfare and coordinating with government agencies. However, the current system, which allows them to remain in office until the age of 60, poses significant challenges: 1) Power monopoly, where prolonged tenure may lead to excessive political influence and favoritism; 2) Lack of administrative motivation, due to the absence of leadership rotation; and 3) Limited local development, as younger generations have fewer opportunities to participate in governance. A comparison with international practices reveals that many countries, such as the United Kingdom and the United States, implement fixed-term leadership models, typically spanning 4-5 years with regular elections. These models enhance transparency, mitigate power monopolization, and improve administrative efficiency.