Bangkok: "Teng" has urged the Prime Minister to take responsibility for the corruption scandal surrounding the local government examination, citing his extensive experience as Minister of Interior. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, an MP and leader of the People's Party, emphasized the need for the Prime Minister to address the issue and not shirk responsibility.
According to Thai News Agency, Nattapong called for a thorough review of the corruption allegations in the Department of Local Administration Promotion's recruitment exam. He highlighted the resignation of the secretary to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, questioning its connection to the scandal. Nattapong urged focus on the honest candidates affected by the scandal, noting that conflicts within the bureaucratic system, particularly within the "blue" faction, have brought the issue to light.
Nattapong shared a complaint from an individual who took the exam honestly, whose family had high expectations for their future. He revealed that 1,000 people have signed a petition, indicating a larger impact on honest candidates. He criticized the government's handling of the situation, pointing out that internal conflicts within the civil service led to public awareness of the scandal.
He further urged the government and Prime Minister to reconsider the measures taken, which have affected many, and to address the corruption on a case-by-case basis. Nattapong questioned the sincerity of the government's anti-corruption efforts, suggesting that without internal conflicts or media coverage, no action would have been taken.
Nattapong called on the Prime Minister to demonstrate tangible results in combating corruption within the government, rather than merely making headlines. He criticized the lack of proactive measures and urged the government to address issues before they become public scandals.
The Bhumjaithai Party affirmed the Prime Minister's commitment to tackling the issue, emphasizing that he will not target only minor offenders. Nattapong reminded the Prime Minister of his prior terms as Minister of Interior, suggesting that the corruption issues have long existed within the ministry. He criticized the government's reactive approach to internal conflicts, stressing the public's suffering due to delayed action.