PM Anutin Says Fraud Probe Measures Underway

On July 27 at Government House, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister discussed progress in investigating fraud in the local civil service examinations following a factual report by Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nílpraphan. Anutin confirmed that multiple actions are already underway, including the transfer of Local Administration Department executives, establishment of a deputy permanent secretary to investigate the case, and discovery that score certificates and answer sheets do not match. Disciplinary committees have been formed to pursue serious misconduct charges against those suspected of involvement.

Anutin stated that Pakorn was appointed to examine the facts, and authorities are cooperating with police and the National Anti-Corruption Commission to issue summonses and arrest warrants against suspects, who currently remain in custody pending prosecution. The central civil service examination committee plans to invalidate 5,924 local civil servant positions and forward cases to provincial authorities for legal action, with investigations expanding to trace financial and other connections.

When asked about the earlier directive to suspend local civil service appointments, Anutin acknowledged that the central civil service committee had independent authority to issue resolutions but added that the facts ultimately proved his position correct. He emphasized that everyone must take responsibility and stated that he had advised others to trust the Prime Minister's judgment. Regarding whether the position invalidations are sufficient, Anutin said this represents administrative action, while police, the anti-corruption commission, and Pakorn's task force with multiple agencies are handling criminal prosecution to ensure no one escapes accountability.