Bangkok: Worasit Liengprasit, Deputy Minister of Interior, has announced a comprehensive review of local government exam papers following allegations of cheating. The Central Committee for Local Government Officials and Employees has decided to request the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to re-examine all examination papers, ensuring that successful candidates can assume their positions without delay. This initiative aims to uphold the rights of honest candidates and maintain public confidence in the integrity of the examination process.
According to Thai News Agency, the decision was made during the 6th/2026 meeting of the Central Committee for Local Government Officials and Employees. The meeting, chaired by Worasit, discussed the agenda and an additional item concerning corruption in local government exams. The committee agreed unanimously on the necessity of re-assessing the exam papers to uncover the truth. The NACC, which has already seized the original answer sheets during a printing press inspection, will coordinate the re-examination to ensure accuracy and factual clarity.
Worasit emphasized the importance of allowing candidates who passed the competitive exam to report for duty without delay, as it remains challenging to identify those involved in the alleged fraud. The meeting concluded that protecting the rights of candidates who passed based on merit is essential. With approximately 3,000 names listed and tens of thousands on the waiting list, the committee aims to avoid infringing on the rights of deserving candidates. The investigation into fraudulent activities will continue, and appropriate actions will be taken against any involved individuals. Worasit confirmed that the resolution must be processed through the Department of Local Administration to lift the delay order, with further details to be provided by the Deputy Director-General.
Addressing concerns about potential exam paper swapping, Worasit expressed his belief that such incidents are unlikely. However, the re-examination will cover all papers from this batch. While there are existing regulations for re-examinations, the details are under discussion. Coordination with the NACC is necessary to determine if a committee will be appointed to handle the matter. A decision from the NACC is crucial to identify those involved, allowing rights restoration for those not implicated. The process will distinguish between candidates who studied diligently and those who engaged in fraudulent practices.
Worasit mentioned that the results of the meeting might be submitted as documentation in a meeting chaired by Mr. Santithorn Yimlamai, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior. Reassuring the public about the transparency and factual nature of the results, Worasit stated that a credible committee, including representatives from various agencies and the public, will oversee the review process. This approach aims to demonstrate transparency and good faith.
Worasit clarified that the re-examination is expected to reveal significant insights. He assured that the original answer sheets, according to the Terms of Reference, were intended for specific individuals, not just anyone, maintaining their integrity.