Five Officials Face Disciplinary Action In Local Exam Fraud

The Permanent Secretary of the Interior is preparing to establish a severe disciplinary committee to investigate five government officials from the Department of Local Administration in connection with the local government examination fraud scandal, indicating involvement at high ministerial levels. An investigation committee led by Deputy Permanent Secretary Santi Yimlammai discovered score alterations and identified Department of Local Administration staff, contracted employees, private companies, and outside individuals as potential suspects. The NACC has also begun investigations in Nonthaburi Province.

The Interior Ministry will proceed with disciplinary action against five officials within its jurisdiction, while approximately ten other suspects remain under investigation by the Central Investigation Police. The NACC plans to conduct a comprehensive backward-tracing investigation within three to six months to identify all involved parties.

When asked whether the five officials face regular or severe disciplinary proceedings, the Permanent Secretary stated that severe disciplinary action typically involves matters affecting public perception and ministerial reputation. The disciplinary committee decision is currently being processed and the Secretary promised to sign the order within one to two days.

Regarding the involvement of the Transportation Ministry secretary's recent resignation, the Permanent Secretary declined to confirm any connection, stating he was unaware of other related matters. When pressed about the Terms of Reference for selecting examination contractors involving four past and present directors of the Department of Local Administration, he noted the investigation dates back years and involves multiple departmental leadership across different periods.