Cabinet Approves Five Law Reforms to Combat Corruption
Thailand's Cabinet approved five anti-corruption and governance reform bills on September 8, including new rules for civil service hiring, stricter firearms controls with a 90-day amnesty period, and measures to improve state procurement an
On September 8, 2025, at Parliament, government spokesperson Ekaphop Piyapisetsuksa announced that the Cabinet has approved five important legislative drafts. Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilpraphan detailed the key provisions of each law.
The Civil Service Recruitment Accountability Act establishes specific legal protections and investigation mechanisms to prevent and address corruption in state agency hiring.
The Firearms Control Act tightens regulations by requiring applicants to complete training, pass tests, and undergo psychological evaluation. It shortens license validity periods, eliminates lifetime permits, and increases penalties for violations. The law also allows a 90-day amnesty period for illegal firearm, ammunition, or explosive surrender without prosecution.
The Energy Business Act amendment redirects funds from the electricity development fund to public lighting in communities and common areas, and clarifies duties related to the Energy Regulatory Commission.
The State Procurement Act revision prioritizes government benefit and contractor capability over lowest price in vendor selection. It expands grounds for contract termination, strengthens enforcement authority, and introduces appeal deposit requirements.
The Community Forests Act amendment allows communities to directly receive revenue from carbon credit sales without transfers to the national treasury, benefiting participating community members.
All five drafts aim to align laws with current economic and social conditions, resolve limitations in state operations, improve public administration efficiency, and enhance quality of life.
