Bangkok: 5,925 names have been submitted for criminal background checks, and the Civil Service Commission will conduct the exam instead. The recent developments come after the Department of Local Administration's decision to allow local government exam candidates to view their scores between August 13 and 31 at both central and provincial levels.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nirat Pongsitthithavorn, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and Acting Director-General of the Department of Local Administration, addressed the issue of inaccuracies in the previous list of successful candidates. Following the Central Committee for Local Government Officials and Employees' meeting on August 7, corrections were made, and the updated scores are now accessible. The Department has also established a nationwide service point for viewing scores.
Mr. Nirat confirmed that the 5,925 names have been forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission and the police for further investigation. The Commission will notify the relevant agencies to investigate any potential wrongdoing once the information is processed.
Mr. Nirat also discussed the potential role of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in conducting replacement examinations due to the National Statistical Office's (NSO) personnel shortages. He emphasized the need for assessment and improvements in examination processes, which depend on policy directives.
He admitted to reviewing a report submitted to the Prime Minister by Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nilapraphan. The report calls for restructuring within the CSC to prevent corruption and errors. Mr. Nirat expressed readiness to decentralize exams if required by new policies.
Regarding the ongoing investigation into exam fraud, Mr. Nirat highlighted the involvement of four main actors: the NSO, contracted universities, brokers, and buyers. He confirmed that the police and the National Anti-Corruption Commission are investigating the case. Meetings will be held with relevant agencies to identify those involved in the fraudulent activities.
Mr. Nirat acknowledged the presence of individuals within the NSO involved in the brokering network and emphasized the need to address this issue. He reiterated his commitment to tackling the problem by ensuring that the information used against those involved is irrefutable.