Thailand Invalidates Exam Results Over Score-Fixing Scandal

Deputy Interior Minister Vorasit Liangpraseuth announced on September 3, 2569 the cancellation of appointments for candidates whose exam scores were altered in the 2568 local civil service recruitment. He explained that in early 2567, Burapha University won a tender to administer the exam. After complaints from residents of Sisaket Province about favoritism and local benefit-taking, the Interior Ministry convened prevention meetings with anti-corruption partners including the National Anti-Corruption Commission, the Ombudsman, the Public Sector Development Commission, and the DSI. An investigative committee found three issues requiring correction: using the public service commission's preliminary exam results, strengthening anti-fraud measures, and bringing in network partners to monitor all stages. Because procedures changed, the budget and original contract became invalid. The comptroller general confirmed a new procurement was possible, leading to contract cancellation. Liangpraseuth stressed this was not a political move and that Burapha University remained eligible to compete in the new bidding process. The second round used electronic bidding, with three universities—Thammasat, Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, and Srinakharinwirot University—submitting proposals. After Surindra Rajabhat University's appeal to the comptroller general was rejected, Srinakharinwirot University was declared the winner. Liangpraseuth rejected accusations of rigging and emphasized that no official, regardless of rank, would escape accountability.