Bangkok: Mr. Chatchart Sittipunt, a candidate for Bangkok Governor, has firmly denied allegations presented by the Economic Party concerning corruption and lack of transparency in the appointment of district directors. He has challenged the party to provide evidence of any wrongdoing, specifically the existence of a "grandfather" system or the buying and selling of positions.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chatchart has called on the Economic Party to file a police report if they possess any evidence of bribery in the appointment process. He emphasized his responsibility for his statements and suggested that such allegations could be a political maneuver as the election approaches. Chatchart insists that he is prepared for scrutiny and stressed that transparency has been a consistent focus during his tenure as Bangkok Governor. He urged that any genuine evidence should have been reported to relevant agencies earlier, rather than emerging during the election period.
Mr. Chatchart addressed the "Akong system" allegations, clarifying that the term "Akong" refers to Mr. Torsak Chotimongkol, former chief advisor to the Bangkok Governor. He stated that meetings with political parties have been routine and without issue until the election period. He reiterated that personnel appointments and transfers within the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration are based on merit and performance, open to scrutiny at all times.
Furthermore, Mr. Chatchart clarified the appointments in other organizations, denying that he appointed Professor Dr. Surapol Nitikraipoj as Chairman of the Board of Bangkok Telecommunications Public Company Limited (KT). He confirmed that the position was given to Professor Special Thongthong Chantrangsu. Regarding the Chairman of the Council of Navamintrathirat Open University, he noted it was a selection process within the education sector, unrelated to the Bangkok Governor's office.
As the election nears, Mr. Chatchart acknowledged the potential for increased political attacks but expressed his readiness to address any issues and take legal action if necessary. He recognized the ongoing challenges faced by a city as large as Bangkok and welcomed suggestions for future development.