Senate Approves New State Audit Commissioner Amid Corruption Concerns

On October 26, 2026, the Senate convened to consider approval of Khajornsak Jenphatthananont as a State Audit Commission (SAC) member, following nomination by the Ethics and History Verification Committee. The debate grew intense when Senator Dr. Premasak Piayura took the floor to challenge the nominee and voice deep public concerns.

Dr. Premasak emphasized the SAC's critical role in auditing and preventing corruption. He noted that wherever he goes, citizens constantly ask about progress on the State Audit Office building collapse case and who will be held responsible, showing close public scrutiny. He urged the new commissioner to address how the building collapse case will be resolved, who the wrongdoers are, and what action will be taken against all involved — whether private sector, government officials, or both parties in collusion.

"Claiming the blueprint was wrong is unacceptable to anyone. It appears to insult the Thai people nationwide to say the building collapsed due to blueprint problems. If the blueprint truly had issues, whoever approved it must also bear responsibility," Dr. Premasak stated.

He referenced Khajornsak's background as a former judge, expressing confidence in the vetting committee's thorough review, but requested periodic performance reports to the Senate. He also highlighted concerns about state officials' field inspections, alleging some areas face harassment for refusing bribes while problematic areas escape scrutiny. He urged Khajornsak to clean house and restore public confidence that State Audit Office staff perform duties with integrity, fairness, and without favoritism.

Dr. Premasak also raised structural legal issues, noting that under the 2017 Constitution, independent organization members serve long terms (7-9 years) but parliament can only vote approval for royal appointment. Once appointed, if problems arise, parliament can only watch helplessly without removal power, damaging public interest and trust in justice.

"Therefore, when constitutional amendments are proposed, they should include provisions for removing independent organizations, allowing citizens to initiate removal, so oversight bodies are not free from public scrutiny as they are now," Dr. Premasak concluded.

After a closed-door session, the Senate approved Khajornsak as SAC member with 143 votes in favor, none against, and 18 abstentions.