The Impact of Bureaucratic polity on The Administration of Local Administrative Organizations post 2014 Thai Coup d’état: A Case Study in Lampang Province

Abstract

This article aimed to study (1) the changes in the administration of local administrative organizations in Lampang province from 2014 to 2019 and (2) the impact of expanding the power of government on the administration of local administrative organizations in Lampang province. This was qualitative research conducted by collecting documented data. The research results were found as follows:

1. After the 1997 constitution that focused on decentralization. Several laws supported the change. Local authorities increased resources, budgets, and personnel management, as well as the participation of local people. In the wake of the coup in 2006, decentralization was deadlocked. The government's return to centralization, more power, especially the 2014 coup, has directly affected local areas, whether local elections are not allowed at all levels. Suspension of local politicians in many places, from the provincial administrative level to the municipality.

2. Lampang Provincial Administrative Organization and Lampang Municipality have all been affected by the expansion of government power. Whether it is the culture of civil servants who have raised power. He is also close to the governor as a civil servant in the Interior Ministry. In response to the province's policies, including working with the emphasis on maintaining regulations to protect themselves, and being directed by the organization. The National Audit Office (NSTC) has strictly taken over, making it not free for local governments to operate and being dominated by prominent government powers.