Bangkok: The process of prosecuting those involved in exam cheating is advancing in line with the central committee's resolution; however, no directive has been issued to restructure the Civil Service Commission. Minister Nirat clarified the current status of the Local Government Administration Department, noting that no restructuring order has been made. Meanwhile, three local government associations have expressed readiness to proceed with the impeachment process as per the central government's resolution, after reaching a consensus. He declared, "It's over, sir," and stated that he is unafraid of legal repercussions, with a legal team and evidence ready.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and Acting Director-General of the Department of Local Administration, has established a legal team to assist local administrators in revoking the appointments of individuals who allegedly cheated in the local government examination. He explained, "We manage the candidate lists and conduct multiple rounds of verification." The Department of Local Administration is expanding its investigation based on information from the central government, including submitting verified score sheets to provincial governments for confirmation. Provinces yet to meet their provincial governments will not have access to the score sheets. Once meetings are conducted, the complete list of names will be available. This legal team was formed due to concerns that provincial, sub-district, and municipal mayors might face lawsuits from those whose appointments have been revoked. Legal officers in every province will monitor the situation and provide assistance, including evidence and exam scores, if any provincial or sub-district administrative organization faces legal challenges. The Department of Local Administration will coordinate these cases with the Office of the Attorney General, the Administrative Court, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), and the police.
Addressing concerns about potential lawsuits from disqualified individuals, Mr. Nirat stated that actions must be straightforward based on vote counts, with evidence supporting that no one was unfairly targeted. He emphasized adherence to the Prime Minister's policy, ensuring names were not considered, and decisions were made based on behavior. The determination of guilt or innocence will be made by the NACC and the police.
Regarding the report summarizing the committee's findings, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan, Mr. Nirat mentioned he had not yet reviewed the document. On the question of dissolving the Civil Service Examination Commission (CSC), he clarified that the CSC is not a permanent organization but a structure tasked with conducting examinations, suggesting personnel adjustments may be necessary. Should policymakers require new legislation regarding the CSC, he indicated compliance with such directives.
Mr. Nirat confirmed that the previously discussed restructuring process had not commenced, emphasizing the need to review exam candidate list management first. After submitting the report to the Prime Minister, no further instructions have been issued.
Concluding the interview, Mr. Nirat shared a moment with Mr. Wirasak Hadda, President of the Association of Subdistrict Administrative Organizations of Thailand, in front of the media. Mr. Wirasak expressed confidence in the Department of Local Administration's provision of evidence and affirmed that local authorities nationwide would proceed with the revocation of officials' names, with no anticipated lawsuits. He concluded with, "It's over, sir."