Bangkok: "Sophon" has ordered the formation of a committee to investigate allegations of demanding money for enrollment in the PPA 30 training course, emphasizing that if wrongdoing is found, action will be taken according to procedure.
According to Thai News Agency, the announcement was made by Mr. Sophon Saram, President of the Parliament and Chairman of the King Prajadhipok Institute Council, at the Parliament food court on floor B2 of the Parliament building. He addressed allegations of accepting a 500,000 baht bribe in exchange for admission to the 30th Advanced Certificate Program in Politics and Democratic Governance (PPR). Mr. Sophon noted that there had been previous news reports on the matter and had asked the Secretary-General of the King Prajadhipok Institute to clarify the issue at a meeting. The Secretary-General had verbally explained that the matter was a misunderstanding and presented some documents, but Mr. Sophon considered it a one-sided explanation.
The Speaker of Parliament stressed that with the matter resurfacing in the news, mere clarification is insufficient. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a fact-finding committee to ascertain the truth and maintain the credibility of the institution. The matter will be brought before the King Prajadhipok Institute Council for consideration and appointment of a committee comprised of qualified individuals.
Mr. Sophon emphasized that if the allegations are true, it is unacceptable. However, fairness must be given to all parties, and preconceived notions of guilt or innocence should be avoided, as the outcome depends on the committee's investigation. Meanwhile, the Secretary-General of the King Prajadhipok Institute will continue to perform his duties as normal, as the fact-finding process is underway. If the committee finds merit to the allegations, the process will proceed according to regulations.
Addressing the issue of nepotism in the admissions process for the institute's courses, Mr. Sophon stated that this matter also needs to be considered. He emphasized that during his tenure, he instructed the King Prajadhipok Institute's council to focus on applying knowledge to the private and public sectors. He stressed that if civil servants miss classes, they will not be allowed to pass the course by retaking it, as this would waste state funds, and students should adhere to the established criteria.
Additionally, Mr. Sophon mentioned the case of the Royal Gazette website announcing the use of the Peacebuilding Act 2026 or the amnesty law, stating that according to Section 4 (8) of the law, it is the power of the Speaker of Parliament to nominate one person from an organization with expertise in conflict resolution to serve on the relevant committee. Consideration is being given to suitable individuals to be nominated so that the committee can move forward with its work, and those entitled to amnesty will be entered into the consideration process as soon as possible.
Regarding the qualifications of the nominees, Mr. Sophon stated that he has instructed the legal department to review the details and scope of authority under the law, as nominations must adhere to legal guidelines. He expects to have a list of suitable individuals within 1-2 days, and once finalized, the names can be immediately submitted to the Prime Minister without needing to be brought before the House of Representatives for consideration.