Suchart Counters Social Security Investment Criticism, Defends Officials' Integrity

During a press conference at Government House on January 31st, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin, in his capacity as a former Labor Minister, addressed ongoing criticisms of the Social Security Office. Suchart emphasized the need to provide fairness to government officials and Social Security staff fighting for their rights. He explained that the Social Security Fund is an independent fund that has existed for 36 years, with decisions made by a tripartite committee. Ministers only supervise policy and cannot directly interfere with the fund's operations. The fund's money comes from contributions by employers, employees, and the government, totaling 1.7 trillion baht, which has grown to 2.9 trillion baht through interest and returns. The State Audit Office annually checks the accounts and reports to parliament. Suchart particularly defended the officials' uniform issue, highlighting that low-paid staff earning 9,000-10,000 baht want to wear a standard uniform. He called for protecting the dignity of good government officials. He also addressed accusations about a building purchase, stating that he has filed a lawsuit at the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct, with two members of parliament already released on bail. Suchart strongly emphasized that ministers have no authority to command investment boards, and that today, knowledgeable professionals are reluctant to serve on such boards due to negative rhetoric attacking the Social Security Office.