Bangkok: Worasit Liengprasit, Deputy Minister of Interior, has firmly refused to step down from overseeing a corruption investigation, addressing criticisms from the People's Party regarding his involvement in the gambling website issue. He retorted to the People's Party, questioning why they didn't resign when faced with similar allegations.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Worasit clarified his position, stating that he is only involved at the policy-making level and not in the actual investigation. He emphasized that there was no interference in the process. He also recalled instances when MPs from his party were implicated in gambling websites, yet no resignations were tendered. Mr. Worasit stressed the importance of distinguishing personal matters from political responsibilities.
Mr. Worasit responded to Ms. Pakamon Nunanan, a Member of Parliament from the People's Party, who called for his withdrawal from the committee investigating corruption in local government recruitment exams. This followed the inclusion of Mr. Samrit Riengprasit, his uncle and President of the Satun Provincial Administrative Organization, in a list summoned by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Mr. Worasit pointed out that most individuals summoned are members of the Central Committee for Local Government Employee Recruitment Examination, who are already being questioned by the NACC. He asserted that being summoned does not imply guilt or involvement in corruption.
Addressing Ms. Phakamon, Mr. Worasit expressed gratitude for her attention but suggested she focus on fake news on the People's Party's Facebook page. He reiterated that his role as a policy maker does not allow for interference in the investigation. While welcoming scrutiny from the opposition, he urged that it be based on facts and past practices, affirming his readiness to answer any questions from fellow members.
Mr. Worasit also dismissed concerns about protecting family members if implicated, stressing that no one is shielded in such scenarios. He emphasized that the Prime Minister has been clear about accountability, and the investigation's outcomes have been transparent and straightforward.
When questioned about withdrawing from the investigation committee, Mr. Worasit challenged the People's Party, questioning why they did not resign during the gambling website controversy earlier in the year. He reiterated the need to keep personal matters separate from political issues, warning against politicizing such matters.