Bangkok: "Wisit" has affirmed his commitment to addressing the issue of cheating in local government exams, emphasizing that anyone found guilty of such acts will face punishment. He responded to allegations from the People's Party regarding corruption, asserting there was no cover-up or protection of those in power.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Interior Minister Worasit Liengprasit addressed concerns raised by MP Phakamon Nunanan of the People's Party. Phakamon suggested that the corruption case involving local government examinations might be concealed and not traced back to influential individuals. Worasit dismissed these allegations and reiterated that action would be taken against all involved, regardless of their identity, surname, or connections. He referenced news reports indicating that two candidates in the Nakhon Si Thammarat province were linked to high-ranking officials and had their scores altered, necessitating further investigation.
Worasit responded to claims by Ms. Phakamon about individuals appointed without taking the exam, stating that he hadn't seen the information but acknowledged that the incident was due to score manipulation. He mentioned that investigations have revealed nearly 6,000 names involved, and those facing legal action have been removed. The next step involves recalling those awaiting appointment to ensure justice for those who passed the exam honestly but were unfairly treated.
Worasit also discussed remedies for those unfairly bypassed. He identified two groups: those who passed the exam based on merit and have been appointed, and those awaiting the fourth round of account notifications. The government is exploring ways to compensate these groups satisfactorily, and this will be presented to the Central Committee for Civil Servants and Local Government Employees on September 17th. He reiterated that no one involved in corruption would be exempt from consequences.
When questioned about potential political bias in the investigation, Worasit emphasized the importance of looking at facts objectively and expressed confidence in the National Anti-Corruption Commission's impartiality. He assured that the investigation teams were acting honestly and based on facts. Worasit noted that individual cases of wrongdoing must be examined independently without implicating entire parties, stressing personal accountability for those involved in misconduct.