Study of the Pros and Cons of Public Interest of Resigning Local Administrators before their Terms Expire

Abstract

This article aims to examine the consequences of early resignation by executives of local administrative organizations, focusing on its impact on public interest across various dimensions. Specifically, it explores the implications of the resignation of the mayor of the local administrative organization who take advantage of legal loopholes under the Local Council and Local Executive Election Act, B.E. 2562 (2019) as a strategic political maneuver to gain an unfair advantage. The study employs a descriptive analysis based on documents and articles related to local council elections within the framework of democratic governance. The study reveals both positive and negative consequences resulting from the early resignation of local administrative executives. The positive impacts are: 1) The opportunity to elect leaders with enhanced capabilities and fresh perspectives. 2) In certain cases, it helps reduce conflicts and improves administrative efficiency. 3) It promotes democratic awareness and engagement among citizens. The negative impacts are : (3.1) Disruptions in the continuity of public policies. (3.2) A decline in public confidence. (3.3) Financial and resource losses. (3.4) The influence of local political dynamics. (3.5) Weakening of public participation mechanisms. (3.6) Obstacle to local development. (3.7) Adverse effects on democratic governance. Furthermore, the study indicates that such resignations may lead to failures in two key areas of public policy implementation, which are: 1) Failure in policy design, it occurs when policies are not appropriately structured to align with real societal conditions or fail to anticipate long-term impacts. As a result, the intended policy objectives are not achieved, and in some cases, new problems may arise instead. This is particularly evident in policies formulated without thorough research or comprehensive problem analysis. 2) Failure in conceptual and technical aspects, it occurs when policies are ineffective in addressing the issues they aim to resolve. Such failures may also lead to unintended negative consequences, further complicating governance and public administration.  The recommendations for addressing these failures are as follows: (2.1) Amend relevant election laws governing local council members and local administrative executives to close legal loopholes and enhance governance effectiveness. (2.2) Enhance public awareness by educating citizens on both the advantages and disadvantages of early resignation before completing the full four-year term. (2.3) Reassess election-related expenses, particularly in cases where an incumbent resigns and seeks re-election, to ensure a more efficient and cost-effective electoral process.