Pathum Thani Official Suspended Over Card Games in Hospital
A health clinic director in Pathum Thani was suspended and transferred after staff accused him of neglecting duties to play cards during work hours, with subordinates reportedly pressured to participate. Provincial officials confirmed the a
A popular anti-corruption Facebook page alleged that a health clinic director in Khlong Luang district, Pathum Thani, was neglecting work and inviting staff to play cards in the outpatient department every evening, with complaints that subordinates felt pressured to participate despite losing repeatedly.
On September 21, Pol. Lt. Col. Kamnenwit Thupkrajang, head of the Pathum Thani Provincial Administration Organization, confirmed that preliminary checks with local supervisors verified the allegations were true. He issued an order to transfer the clinic director to the provincial office effective immediately and appointed a fact-finding committee to complete its investigation within seven days before recommending disciplinary action.
"Any action must follow proper procedure, not be driven solely by news coverage," Kamnenwit stated. "We must thoroughly verify the facts first." He emphasized that the provincial administration has long enforced policies requiring clinic leaders to maintain unity, prevent misconduct at government facilities, and prioritize public service.
The Pathum Thani Provincial Administration Organization now oversees 29 health clinics, up from 22, with plans to assume responsibility for 38-39 total. All clinics will receive inspection vehicles to enable active community outreach and service delivery. Kamnenwit noted that while supervisors confirmed the incident occurred, the full details and severity of misconduct will be determined by the committee's findings before final disciplinary action is taken.
Some officials suggested the clinic director may have been unfairly targeted and disputed details of the allegation.
