Bangkok: The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Mr. Arsit Sampanrat, has acknowledged shortcomings in the investigation of corruption within local government recruitment processes. He has called for patience as the local government corruption investigation committee is set to conclude its findings within the next seven days, with a public press conference planned to disclose the details and outline actions against involved civil servants.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sampanrat revealed the progress made by the fact-finding committee, which is chaired by Mr. Santithorn Yimlamai, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Community Development and Local Administration. The committee has completed its investigation over a period of seven days and is currently in the process of summarizing the facts. Once finalized, the findings will be presented to Mr. Sampanrat, and the public will be informed of the results. While the Ministry of Interior is conducting the investigation, the criminal aspects are being handled by the police.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is also involved, drafting a timeline for a 3-6 month investigation. Discussions are ongoing to ensure consistency of information, with the Ministry of Interior tasked with identifying any errors and determining who was involved in the process. Mr. Sampanrat emphasized transparency and stated that there would be no cover-up as the investigation progresses.
Regarding the involvement of various government officials, Mr. Arsit highlighted the need to wait for specific details from the deputy permanent secretary overseeing the investigation. He confirmed the Ministry's ongoing communication with the NACC and admitted to existing shortcomings, though specifics were not yet disclosed.
The investigation also touches on allegations implicating the wife of the Permanent Secretary in the corruption scheme. The Ministry stressed the importance of enforcing the law in all cases. In response to rumors about an individual named Kit, who may report to Thung Song Hong Police Station, Mr. Arsit expressed a lack of knowledge on the matter. He welcomed the revelation of truth and encouraged anyone with information to report it to the Prime Minister's Office confidentially. Mr. Arsit clarified that he does not know Kit, despite Kit's involvement in local politics.