Senator Urges Investigation Into Former Education Welfare Chief's Fund Misuse

Senator Premsak Piayura has called for a thorough investigation into the former secretary-general of the Teachers and Education Personnel Welfare Promotion Office (OCSC), saying that resignation should not end accountability for improper use of government funds and administrative management. On July 21, 2569, Senator Premsak commented on Education Minister Prasert Chantharangthong's appointment of Somchai Wisetchaksina, head inspector of the Education Ministry, to act as OCSC secretary-general from July 18, replacing Peeraphun Hamerarud who resigned. The senator emphasized that this resignation followed his parliamentary inquiry into alleged mismanagement by the former secretary-general, which became a significant pressure point.

This is a critical opportunity for the Education Ministry to recruit a new OCSC secretary-general through a transparent and verifiable process, preventing a repeat of past problems. Senator Premsak proposed that candidates should be individuals with direct knowledge, ability, and experience in education—not outsiders unfamiliar with the ministry's operations, particularly businesspeople who might face conflicts of interest in procurement or budget management, as illustrated by past issues including textbook shortages in over 2,000 schools despite the semester being underway for more than a month, an unprecedented event in history. The Education Ministry has also faced complaints about potentially irregular fund disbursements and duplicate payments currently under internal review.

When asked whether a retroactive investigation of the former OCSC secretary-general was necessary, Senator Premsak stated it was essential, as resignation should not absolve responsibility. If improper use of government funds, conflict of interest, or damage to state administration is found, the matter must be investigated and prosecuted under the law.

"Resignation should not end everything. Government funds must have someone accountable, and this must serve as a lesson for future office holders. The next OCSC secretary-general should prioritize the interests of teachers, education personnel, and the nation—not view the organization as a channel for business profit or personal gain," the senator said.

Senator Premsak added that previous Senate urgent inquiries have shown tangible results, and when the Senate convenes on August 24, if problems or lack of transparency persist in state agencies, he is ready to use Senate mechanisms to conduct full investigations and speak for the people, ensuring long-standing accumulated problems are not overlooked again.