Bangkok: Minister of Transport Pipat Ratchakitprakarn has initiated a fact-finding investigation into allegations of corruption involving the Marine Department, the Department of Highways, and the Department of Land Transport. He is set to summon executives from the implicated transport agencies to address the allegations. The Permanent Secretary of Transport has been tasked with gathering information and providing clarity on the matter. If the allegations hold true, a committee will be established to conduct a thorough investigation. Emphasizing the importance of good governance and transparency, Pipat stressed the need for verification of the survey results' reliability.
According to Thai News Agency, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport commented on findings from the Joint Committee of the Three Private Sector Institutions (JCC), specifically the Zero Corruption Working Group and the "Friends Who Won't Tolerate" group. Their survey identified the three agencies under the Ministry of Transport as having the highest average bribery values. Ratchakitprakarn affirmed the Ministry's commitment to transparency across all operations, including procurement, administrative management, and governance. Good governance remains a core principle for all affiliated agencies.
Pipat announced plans to invite the directors-general or executives of the implicated agencies to clarify the facts, enabling authorities to evaluate the accuracy of the reported information. Should the investigation find merit in the allegations, a committee will be formed to delve deeper into the facts and follow established procedures.
He further noted that a definitive conclusion cannot be drawn yet regarding the accuracy of the released information. The details of the survey and its scope must be examined thoroughly. An in-depth investigation is essential to gauge how accurately the information reflects the agency's overall situation. The Ministry awaits a report from Mr. Chayatham Phromsorn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, before proceeding to the next steps.