Mechanism for the Acquisition of the Kamnan Position Under the Local Administration Ac : Context of Connection with the People

Abstract

A system of governance known as democracy dictates that the people are sovereign; that is, the people hold the ultimate power of the nation. In reality, however, the sheer size of the population makes it practically impossible for every citizen to directly exercise their power in every matter. Consequently, the people delegate their power to various organizations or agencies to exercise power on their behalf, as prescribed by the constitution.

This article discusses the acquisition of the Kamnan (Sub-district Headman) position, which is considered a crucial and influential role in local administration, tasked with mitigating hardships and promoting the well-being of the people within the sub-district area. The principle of the Kamnan's independence should ideally serve as a safeguard against political interference.

Nevertheless, in recent times, the public has become highly engaged in participatory processes under the democratic system. The article examines the extent to which the current process for assuming the Kamnan position aligns with democratic principles, particularly concerning the participation of the people who are the ultimate source of state power. Direct public participation would signify a strong alignment with true democracy. However, the current process for selecting a Kamnan involves an election conducted only by a limited number of Phu Yai Ban (Village Headmen). While this method maintains a degree of connection to the people through their representatives, the article suggests that for the process to be genuinely democratic, it would be preferable for the people to have direct participation in the election of the Kamnan.