Bangkok: The Deputy Minister of Interior, Mr. Worasit Liengprasit, addressed the concerns surrounding the handling of 5,925 cases of irregularities in civil service and local government employee recruitment examinations. He emphasized that this issue is not about shifting the responsibility onto local authorities, but rather ensuring that each agency acts within its own authority, with the central government taking responsibility for establishing data, criteria, and guidelines.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Worasit clarified that the process of addressing these irregularities did not begin with local administrative organizations but with a thorough examination during the competitive examination process. Upon discovering irregularities, the matter was reviewed by the relevant committee before guidelines were established and disseminated to the respective agencies.
Mr. Worasit highlighted the importance of distinguishing between the detection of irregularities and actions regarding personal status. He stated that the central government provides verified information and guidelines, while local authorities act within their own jurisdiction. This separation of roles is crucial to prevent the perception that local authorities are being burdened with responsibilities beyond their mandate.
Addressing the group of 5,925 individuals, Mr. Worasit explained that being on the list does not automatically imply criminal offense or fraud. The list identifies irregularities in exam scores, which must be investigated by appropriate agencies. Any criminal liability or fraud involvement is for the justice system to determine.
Mr. Worasit further emphasized that if individuals were appointed to positions based on problematic scores and later found ineligible, their status must be corrected according to the law. He stressed that errors or fraud in the examination process should not become a permanent privilege in the civil service system.
The Deputy Minister reiterated that the central government is responsible for providing information and guidelines, while relevant committee members and parent agencies must act within their authority. He rejected the notion of "passing the buck" and clarified that local administrative organizations do not determine the regularity of exam scores but act upon receiving information from the central government.
Mr. Worasit also announced that the Ministry of Interior is assisting honest candidates affected by the irregularities. A review channel has been opened for candidates to verify their scores, ensuring justice for those who studied honestly for the exam.
In conclusion, Mr. Worasit stated that the goal is not only to address the irregularities involving 5,925 individuals but to restore the recruitment examination process to a level of transparency and accountability. The Ministry of Interior aims to prosecute those involved in corruption while ensuring that honest individuals are not unfairly affected. He assured that the Ministry will not protect wrongdoers but will also not harm honest people, and that the process will be followed to its conclusion with accuracy and fairness.