Bangkok Overhauls Civil Service Exam, Cancels University Contract

Bangkok has upgraded transparency in its civil service recruitment exam process to prevent corruption issues like those found in local government recruitment, Deputy Governor Twida Kamalawech announced on July 19. The Civil Service Commission and Personnel Office have been instructed to thoroughly review all exam procedures, including test design, administration methods, score processing, and security protocols, along with Bangkok's terms of reference and requirements.

The city has terminated its contract with Srinakharinwirot University, originally selected to administer the exam. The university agreed to the cancellation without objection. The next exam is now expected in mid-September 2026, with clarity on the new procurement process expected by August 15 and candidate lists announced by late August. Approximately 7,000 applicants have already registered but may request refunds if unable to sit for the rescheduled exam.

Meanwhile, Bangkok has appointed committees to investigate 17 additional equipment procurement projects, with preliminary findings expected by August 15. A 30-day review period has been set for the fact-finding committees. The city is also intensifying its review of seven previously identified problematic projects and will analyze data from the 17 new investigations alongside them. A committee meeting scheduled for July 23 will track progress on reviewing the central price-setting process for all seven projects. Bangkok is committed to expediting all steps to reach clear conclusions and restore public confidence.