Interior Minister Tackles 5,925 Corruption Cases with Clear Guidelines

Bangkok: Interior Minister 4 is making strides in resolving 5,925 cases, responding to issues highlighted by local administrative organization mayors. He stressed the importance of transparency in handling wrongdoers and emphasized the need for clear guiding principles for those in charge, aiming to clarify legal regulations and ensure local authorities are not solely at risk.

According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Minister of Interior, Mr. Worasit Liengprasit, overseeing local administration, is actively monitoring the investigation into alleged corruption in the local government civil service examination involving 5,925 individuals. The primary focus is not only on addressing those implicated in corruption but also on empowering local government officials and administrators to perform their duties legally and confidently in the examination process.

Local administrative organization mayors have expressed concerns about signing related orders due to potential impacts on individuals' status and legal implications. They require clarity on the necessary evidence, laws, and authority for each decision-making step.

Mr. Worasit emphasized the need to separate the issue into two parts: straightforward action against wrongdoers and simultaneous protection for those performing their duties in good faith. He stated, "We don't just need the required number of signatures; we want all actions to be in accordance with the law. Those performing their duties must be confident that their actions are within their authority and the correct procedures. Those who are at fault must be held accountable, but those acting in accordance with their duties should not be left to make decisions with risk alone. The central authority's role is to make the guidelines and procedures clear so that all parties can move in the same direction."

The Deputy Minister underscored the importance of resolving this issue without infringing on the rights of honest candidates while preventing those involved in corruption from evading the process due to procedural concerns at the local level.

The Ministry of Interior aims to adhere to the resolutions and authority of each level with a deadline set for August 31, 2026. Previously, a mechanism allowed examinees to review their scores if their names were absent from the list, ensuring transparency and accountability.

"I affirm that we are not backing down on the issue of corruption, but at the same time, we must not create new problems for those in the position. This must be resolved on both sides: those who are guilty must go through the legal process, and those who are honest must receive justice," Mr. Worasit stated.

Mr. Worasit instructed relevant agencies to monitor field obstacles and expedite clarifying procedures to prevent hesitation due to fear of future mistakes. "We can speed up the process, but not to the point where those working have to make decisions without a clear guideline. All parties must work based on facts, laws, and shared responsibility," he added.

The operation aims not only to manage the list of 5,925 names but also to restore credibility to the examination system, ensuring that honest examinees receive fair rights and opportunities based on accurate scores. "This matter must end with the truth, not simply because the deadline has passed," Mr. Worasit concluded.