Anutin Vows Strict Action on Local Exam Fraud
Thai PM and Interior Minister insists local civil service exam corruption probe will spare no one, denies opposition claims and cites cancelled 2023 exams.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Anutin Charnvirakul promises swift and decisive action against local exam corruption
- Stresses that independent bodies like the NACC handle the case without set limits
- Responds to opposition scrutiny by pointing out he cancelled the 2023 exams for transparency
At 7:45 PM on August 22 at Wing 6 Military Air Terminal (บน.6) in Don Mueang, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed the findings of the fact-finding and legal committee investigating corruption in the competitive examinations for local government officials. He confirmed that directives regarding the findings have already been issued, emphasizing that the investigation into the exam fraud is proceeding swiftly and decisively. Individuals involved or under suspicion have faced legal action and removal from their duties to eliminate any conflicts of interest in accordance with established procedures.
The Prime Minister addressed headlines suggesting the probe might fail to reach high-ranking figures, questioning what constitutes the highest level and reiterating that innocent individuals cannot be falsely accused. However, if evidence points to anyone, legal action must follow. He noted that the operations are handled by the Royal Thai Police and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), independent agencies beyond government interference, assuring the public that no one will be exempted.
Addressing local government recruitment corruption is vital for upholding administrative integrity and public trust in Thailand's bureaucratic system. Delegating investigations to independent bodies like the NACC helps mitigate accusations of political bias and reinforces institutional checks and balances.
When asked if the investigation would extend to brokers or tutors, Anutin stated that witness testimonies are currently being collected. He firmly dismissed rumors of a predetermined cutoff limit, warning the public against speculative reports aimed at causing confusion, and stressed that all actions strictly adhere to the law.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Regarding the opposition's attempts to link the scandal to his tenure as Interior Minister in the previous administration, Anutin explained that he was the one who cancelled the 2023 examinations to ensure transparency. He acknowledged the opposition's duty to oversee the government but maintained that since he committed no wrongdoing, no evidence exists. He welcomed genuine evidence and new information submitted to relevant authorities while cautioning against baseless accusations driven purely by personal sentiment.
"No, absolutely not. The Prime Minister said whoever it reaches, it reaches."
Nirat Phongsitthithavorn, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Interior
Before leaving, Anutin turned to reporters and asked why they had not interviewed Nirat Phongsitthithavorn, Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Interior and acting Director-General of the Department of Local Administration. Anutin asked Nirat if anyone had been exempted, to which Nirat replied that no one was spared and that the Prime Minister's stance was uncompromising. Anutin then jokingly asked if the investigation reached him, prompting Nirat to laugh and confirm it did not, before the Prime Minister departed.
Source: Matichon Politics
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