PM Anuthon Addresses Local Civil Service Exam Fraud Scandal

Prime Minister Anuthon Chaiyaweerakul addressed allegations of fraud in local government civil service recruitment exams that may involve current cabinet ministers. He stressed that concrete evidence must be submitted to the National Anti-Corruption Commission, whether the evidence proves actual misconduct or is fabricated. The PM stated the government has formed a disciplinary committee and removed officials suspected of involvement or with conflicts of interest.

The PM's remarks follow a witness statement from a former local government executive and parliamentary candidate under investigation. The witness testified that those behind the exam fraud scheme held ministerial rank and remain in the current government. The witness also stated that the accused former candidate was uninvolved in the fraud and received no benefits, only monitored misappropriated funds. The witness characterized the accusations and arrest as selective targeting and political persecution.

The local civil service exam fraud has continued since 2025 and appears to be an organized scheme, raising questions about possible links to political parties or politicians. Suspects have ranged from lower-level officials to director-general rank. A total of 5,925 applicants were found to have irregular scores, and 3,868 civil service appointments have been revoked. The case is under investigation by both police and the National Anti-Corruption Commission, with inquiries continuing into any connections to political entities. The government must fully facilitate case resolution to maintain public confidence.