Politics Govt Under Fire as Anti-Graft Watchdog Cites Leadership Void

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The Anti-Corruption Organisation of Thailand (ACT) has delivered a damning assessment of the Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration. The ACT claims the government shows no clear direction or true commitment to combating corruption.

 

ACT president Mana Nimitmongkol highlighted several shortcomings, expressing public distrust in government initiatives. Plans like the 10,000 baht digital cash handout and a massive economic stimulus are seen as mere political manoeuvres, according to Mr. Mana's Facebook post. The issue of widespread corruption has eroded public confidence.

 

Despite the administration's goal to significantly boost its ranking in the Corruption Perceptions Index, Mr. Mana pointed out the absence of a solid anti-corruption strategy. Critics argue the disbanding of key institutions, such as the Anti-Corruption Operation Centre, weakens state mechanisms against corruption.

 

The government's unconvincing crisis management approach was noted as a factor in this perception, with officials often tasked with identifying culprits rather than conducting transparent investigations.

 

The Bangkok Post reported that recent events, like the collapse of the State Audit Office building during an earthquake, highlight these concerns.

 

Legal reforms and changes to bureaucracy that were promised to address the fundamental causes of corruption remain unfulfilled, according to Mr. Mana. The ACT has warned of financial losses exceeding 100 billion baht if issues like neglected state projects aren't audited and addressed.

 

Mr. Mana also criticised the administration for dismissing the recommendations made by the National Anti-Corruption Commission. The government's lack of effective response to issues like school milk fraud and highway bribes has demotivated bureaucrats.

 

He called for the government to spearhead the anti-corruption fight by implementing transparent practices and prioritising it as a national agenda item. In a bid to drive this momentum, the ACT plans to host Anti-Corruption Day 2025 on September 6, encouraging public involvement in designing a more honest society.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-14