Bangkok: The Ministry of Interior has taken decisive action to address cheating in local government exams by canceling the 2025 examination list and prosecuting those responsible, with a new list of 12,000 candidates being prepared. According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Interior, led by Permanent Secretary Mr. Arsit Sampanrat, convened a key meeting on August 5, 2026, to address corruption in the competitive examinations for local government employees and civil servants. The meeting resulted in the annulment of the 2025 exam list and the decision to generate a new list based on legitimate scores.
Mr. Arsit emphasized that only candidates who passed the exam honestly will be included in the new list, excluding those with discrepancies or abnormally high scores. The Central Committee of Local Government Officials and Employees will be briefed on the situation on August 6th. The Department of Local Administration has outlined measures to address cases where scores have been adjusted. Those involved in bribery or the cheating scheme will face dismissal, removal from office, and possible imprisonment.
Mr. Boonprasong Nuansai, Deputy Director-General of the National Statistical Office (NSO) and Secretary of the Central Committee, disclosed that of the 774 individuals with adjusted scores, only 97 remain on the list after re-ranking, while 464 have been relegated to a waiting list. Legal actions will be pursued if the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) or police uncover any misconduct.
Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul assured that the investigation will be impartial, emphasizing accountability for all, including civil servants and politicians. He pledged non-interference with the investigative processes of the committee and the NACC.
The fact-finding committee, led by Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan, has identified over 100 officials implicated in the scandal. Their findings have been submitted for the Prime Minister's approval, prior to initiating a disciplinary investigation. The disciplinary investigation into five Department of Local Administration officials continues, with Theerapat Khachamat overseeing the proceedings.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Montri Theschan of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) reported to the Committee on Political Development that summonses have been issued to multiple suspects. Investigators have already met with Mr. Ruangdej and private sector members, while Mr. Theerut Supavibulphol is scheduled for a charge acknowledgment on August 6th. The case will then be forwarded to the NACC for further legal proceedings.