Bangkok:The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health has halted the Deputy Permanent Secretary's order, which revoked the dismissal of Dr. Suphat Hasuwanakit from government service due to serious disciplinary violations. The Permanent Secretary has affirmed that there was no political interference in the decision. Despite the ongoing situation, Dr. Suphat has expressed his commitment to continue serving society.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Somruk Chungsaman, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, addressed the case involving Dr. Sakda Alphachon, the Deputy Permanent Secretary, who had agreed with the Civil Service Commission's (CSC) order to revoke the dismissal of Dr. Suphat. Dr. Suphat, a former president of the Rural Doctors Association and former director of a community hospital, faced dismissal for alleged misconduct related to the ATK (Easy Test) COVID-19 test kit. Dr. Somruk disagreed with the revocation order and has mandated its cancellation, which is set to be announced today. He expressed doubts about the CSC's decision, noting that additional information has been requested, indicating the matter's incompleteness.
The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has raised concerns that the committee investigating Dr. Suphat included individuals with conflicts of interest. However, the Ministry of Public Health is expected to provide explanations, and the CSC has asked for further information from the Ministry, which still has time to respond. Consequently, the CSC disagrees with Dr. Sakda's decision to revoke Dr. Suphat's dismissal.
Dr. Somruk has confirmed that the issue was not driven by political motives, asserting that the investigation into the disciplinary offense was based on substantial reasoning. Should the CSC find the information insufficient, the Ministry is prepared to supply additional details. A conclusion from the legal department is anticipated next week.
In a Facebook post, Dr. Suphat Hasuwanakit expressed gratitude for the support he received and thanked the Civil Service Commission for their fairness. He reiterated his dedication to his principles and his intention to continue contributing to society, irrespective of the outcomes of the orders.