PM Anuthim Denies Protecting Aide in Local Exam Fraud Probe
PM Anuthim denies protecting his aide in a local government exam fraud probe, saying he ordered background checks through multiple agencies and found no legal violations. The Prime Minister insisted he maintains confidentiality protocols fo
Prime Minister Anuthim Charnvirakul has denied using his office to protect anyone, addressing allegations that his aide Thongcheuea Chatkitjcharoen is linked to a local government civil service exam fraud case. Speaking at Don Mueang Air Force Base on September 20, Anuthim said he received a reply letter from the National Police Commissioner following his inquiry into Thongcheuea's connection to the irregularities, though he withheld specific details, saying the time was not yet right since he had merely requested information.
When asked if he still maintains a policy of confidentiality regarding individuals under investigation, Anuthim confirmed he does. He insisted he submitted his inquiry openly and expressed confidence that wrongdoers can be punished. Regarding discussions with Thongcheuea, Anuthim stated that Thongcheuea submitted a report detailing the accusations against him and his actions in response. After reviewing the report with his team and finding no legal violations, Anuthim ordered a background check through both the Royal Thai Police and the National Anti-Corruption Commission.
Anuthim said he will also refer the case to the Anti-Money Laundering Office and the Office of the Permanent Secretary to verify whether findings align with the allegations. He emphasized that the same scrutiny applies to anyone under investigation, not just Thongcheuea. Anuthim noted that when requests are made in writing, the signatory assumes full responsibility, which he said reflects his commitment to transparency.
When pressed on whether urgency was needed because Thongcheuea is close to him, Anuthim replied that inquiries typically receive answers within a week. He stated that regardless of circumstances, confidentiality protocols remain in place, urging the public not to worry that he would shield anyone from accountability. He stressed that protecting someone in his position would harm him personally and pledged he would never do so.
Confirming that no civil service exam corruption will occur under his administration, Anuthim assured the public that this matter is definitively blocked.
