From the frying pan into the fire: In Thai PM Thaksin's cabinet shuffle last week (see previous item), the top performing Interior Minister Purachai was moved to the Department of Justice.

All of Purachai's work as Interior Minister has been exemplary, yet he has gained most publicity for his "social order" campaign - a venture aimed at reducing frightening levels of drug use and a "decline in morals" by targeting entertainment venues and enforcing earlier closing, random raids and drug checks for patrons. Purachai displayed uncharacteristic endeavour (relative to previous efforts to "clean up entertainment areas" by other officials) in his mission, often accompanying police on raids, and turning up to entertainment areas personally to check the local constabulary were doing their job and not on the take. Amongst a hah-sip hah-sip mob in cabinet Purachai gained much respect for his honesty, organization, and willingness to stand up to the very tight group of Thai businessmen-cum-criminals who run the industry and have close ties to influential individuals in government.

It was with much relief therefore that bar owners (often a mix of foreigners who own bars in their Thai wife's name or Thais willing to risk social ostracism from their participation in such un-Thai activities) throughout Thailand heard of Purachai's transfer.

That relief turned sour however, as soon as they heard the name of the new Interior Minister who vowed immediately to continue Purachai's crusade.

Yes, the new Interior Minister is Wan Muhammad Noor Martha.

In short, a Muslim is now in charge of cleaning up the Thai entertainment industry.

Wan Noor wasted no time in removing the Buddha image from his office, and attracting protests from Buddhist leaders. One would hope however, that Thailand will retain it's image as one of the most religiously tolerant countries in Asia. Thai Buddhism is so entrenched in Thai society, culture, daily life, and even Thai business, that Thailand can afford to entertain other religions, unlike dominant religions in other neighbouring countries which feel less secure. Basically Buddha can look after himself quite well thankyou...

Other rumours have been spread that Wan Noor has ordered provincial governors to remove Buddha images from their own offices, a charge vigorously denied by the minister himself...

No doubt there are a few drug industry king pins (who control most of the shady bar type businesses in Thailand) are also feeling less secure today.

And I wouldn't put it beyond them to start a smear campaign against Wan Noor as well... Watch this space...