Bangkok: The Department of Local Administration (DLA) is set to address the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) on August 6th concerning cheating allegations in the local government exams. The DLA has pledged to take stringent actions against those involved in altering scores.
According to Thai News Agency, the DLA is working in tandem with the NACC to unravel the complexities of the exam cheating case. The department has outlined 19 key issues and plans to submit a proposal to the Local Government Personnel Administration Commission (LGPAC) on August 5th. This proposal aims to annul the appointments of 5,925 civil servants and will be presented to the central government on August 6th for further action against individuals who manipulated exam scores.
Mr. Asaphol Santraiphop, an MP from Sisaket Province and Chairman of the House Committee on Prevention and Suppression of Corruption and Misconduct, met with Mr. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and Acting Director-General of the DLA, to discuss the resolution of issues surrounding the local government examinations. The National Statistical Office (NSO) has clarified the report, addressing questions regarding the Terms of Reference (TOR) and confirming the implementation of anti-corruption measures as instructed by the Ministry of Interior.
In relation to a contract with Srinakharinwirot University (SWU), a payment of 32 million baht remains pending due to the ongoing corruption allegations. Discussions are in progress regarding the termination of the contract and potential claims for damages. Additionally, questions have been raised about the handling of flash drives containing unencrypted sensitive data, which are now under forensic investigation following data leak suspicions.
The investigation also involves scrutinizing the role of Ms. Buranee Paeroj, Director of the Local Government Personnel Recruitment and Selection Group, as it was revealed that her computer was used in communications with SWU. Furthermore, audio clips alleging bribery, involving a person named "Som-Kit," are being investigated by relevant agencies.
The NSO has identified 115 suspicious score alterations and is awaiting detailed documentation regarding the involved computers and personnel. The discrepancies in exam scores and the lack of encryption on flash drives have triggered concerns over data security and procedural flaws.
Mr. Boonprasong Nuansai, Deputy Director-General of the DLA, emphasized the need for legal actions against those who failed the exam due to alterations. He stated that information will be shared with agencies like the NACC, PACC, DSI, and AMLO for further investigation. Mr. Saroat Klinprathum, an advisor to the NACC, highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability from the NSO amidst public scrutiny.
The scandal has also drawn attention to the selection of exam administrators, with Burapha University being temporarily sidelined in favor of SWU due to perceived inadequacies in anti-corruption measures.
Mr. Nirat acknowledged the situation and expressed regret over the damage caused. He assured that the DLA is committed to resolving the issues and implementing preventative measures to avoid future occurrences. The Deputy Director-General also showcased the secure storage of the flash drives, now under NACC investigation, to the committee and press.
The unfolding scandal underscores the need for robust systems and transparency in the administration of government exams to restore public trust and uphold integrity.