Phakamon exposes local exam irregularities and crony quotas

On September 6, 2026, Ms. Phakamon Nunnanont, a party-list Member of Parliament from the People's Party, raised serious concerns regarding irregularities in civil service examinations and high-level administrative appointments. She revealed that she is currently holding a list of over 5,900 local officials whose exam results have been revoked due to corruption. Among these cases, a significant number fall under what is known as the crony quota, linked directly to regional MPs from major political parties who secured placements for their protégés.

Ms. Phakamon further explained that the crony quota system involves individuals who bypass the standard bribery payments ranging from 300,000 to 700,000 baht typical of other cheating schemes. Instead, their answer sheets are manipulated and corrected to guarantee passing grades, utilizing connections and influence from high-ranking department officials, senior ministry bureaucrats, provincial governors, district chiefs, and local influential figures. Notably, some individuals benefiting from these connections even scored higher than those who paid regular bribes.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Addressing Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, Ms. Phakamon questioned his genuine commitment to anti-corruption efforts. She strongly urged the administration not to allow any individuals involved in these corrupt networks to be promoted to high-ranking positions such as department director-general.

"If you are sincere about fighting corruption, do not let those involved sit as director-general."

Phakamon Nunnanont

Source: Khaosod Politics