Report Senator’s Credentials Questioned in ‘Fake Professor’ Scandal

[webfact]

Senator Keskamol Pleansamai. File photo

 

The Supreme Court is set to begin hearing a high-profile case against Senator Keskamol Pleansamai, accused of deceiving voters by claiming an unearned professorship. The Election Commission (EC) initiated the case, alleging that Keskamol misled the public during last year's Senate elections, a move that may have swayed the outcome in her favour.

 

The hearing, scheduled for September 10, will serve as a platform for reviewing crucial evidence and hearing testimonies from key witnesses. If the court rules against Keskamol, she could face severe penalties, including up to ten years of imprisonment, fines ranging from 20,000 to 200,000 baht (approx. £448 to £4,476), and a lengthy 20-year prohibition from political activity.

 

Central to the case is Keskamol's claim of holding a professorship in Human Resource Development from California University FCE, an unaccredited institution not recognised by Thai authorities. The Election Commission argues that this misrepresentation amounts to electoral fraud, violating the organic law against misleading voters to secure votes.

 

Despite her contentious claims, Keskamol's academic record reveals a verified medical degree from Rangsit University. However, other qualifications listed in her resume, including multiple graduate degrees, have sparked significant debate and scrutiny, particularly from digital sleuths who began examining her credentials post-election.

 

Popularly known as “Dr Kes” on social media, she strategically chose to vie for a seat under the Freelance Workers group in the Senate race, bypassing the Public Health group, which boasted several prominent figures. Her choice has since been viewed as a tactical move to escape direct competition with well-established personalities.

 

Additionally, complications arose when the Medical Council of Thailand announced that Keskamol lacks the necessary dermatology certification, thus barring her from using the title of a skin specialist. This declaration amplifies the doubts surrounding her professional claims, reported the Bangkok Post.

 

Keskamol's affiliation with California University FCE also raises questions due to its known association with Thamanat Prompow, a former minister embroiled in his controversies, including questionable academic claims. The connection has highlighted potential patterns in misleading academic endorsements within political circles.

 

Apart from these charges, Keskamol is entangled in further investigations regarding alleged collusion and vote-rigging in the 2024 election, broadening the scope of her legal predicaments. The court's forthcoming decision holds significant weight, as the outcome could impact Keskamol's political career and have broader ramifications for electoral integrity in Thailand.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-31

 

 

[Gsxrnz]

Hang on a minute - "misleading voters to secure votes" is the very essence of being a politician. It's the only essential skill necessary. 

 

What is the world coming to, when a politician faces justice for telling lies.  Hell in a handcart. 

[sungod]

Anyone else thinking it looks like a fella? 

[bendejo]

12 minutes ago, sungod said:

Anyone else thinking it looks like a fella? 

 

Unusually high collar, no?

 

[Rampant Rabbit]

Christ looks a bad as Sharon and Kellly Osborne........why they think these plastic faces look good when they look like freaks

[Enoon]

12 hours ago, sungod said:

Anyone else thinking it looks like a fella?