Bangkok: "Pakorn" is pushing for reform of local government bureaucracy, aiming to eliminate redundant agencies and reform executive salaries. The government is considering dissolving central government agencies in the regions due to duplication of work and is preparing reforms to local government executive salaries. The Comptroller General's Department will be responsible for local budget spending to ensure efficiency and transparency, alongside the introduction of a hometown tax to address inequality between local governments.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan disclosed the government's plans for major reform of the local government system. The Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC) is set to propose to the Cabinet the abolition of regional branches of central government agencies. These branches overlap with the authority of provincial governors and operate without proper legislative support under national administrative regulations.
Previously, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) board resolved to transition these agencies from physical branch offices to online systems, leveraging computer technology to serve the public more effectively. This shift aims to streamline the civil service system, reduce redundancy, and focus on addressing illegal activities. Support measures are in place for personnel affected by these changes, offering options such as transfers back to central government positions or participation in an early retirement program.
Additionally, the government is examining the compensation structure for local government executives after identifying significant salary and benefit disparities that affect the central government system. Findings reveal that many local administrative organization secretaries earn more than permanent secretaries in ministries, who manage key policies and nationwide activities. This discrepancy arises from local administrative bodies setting independent income criteria, unaligned with the Civil Service Commission's standards for central government officials. Consequently, the government plans to assign the Department of the Comptroller General the task of creating a central accounting system to monitor the performance and expenditure of local government budgets, ensuring transparency and value for money.
Mr. Pakorn also highlighted the government's policy of promoting a "hometown tax" to encourage large companies to support small local communities with incomes under 25 million baht, which lack substantial development opportunities. This initiative would permit private sector donations to be tax-deductible, contributing to urban development and being factored into the organization's carbon footprint calculation. The focus of local development will shift towards fostering a circular economy and enhancing quality of life, rather than solely prioritizing road construction, to ensure sustainability. The government believes this approach will help bridge the inequality gap between affluent and smaller communities, providing equal access to essential public services tailored to local needs.