Growing Claims of ‘Hidden Influence Network’ at Bangkok City Hall
Accusations have emerged alleging a clandestine network of influence operating behind the scenes at City Hall, particularly during the tenure of former Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt. These claims are primarily being put forth by figures associated with the Economic Party.
Mr. Chadchart and officials connected to his administration have vehemently denied these accusations. They have challenged critics to present concrete evidence and have defended the transparency of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) established procedures.
Understanding the Term ‘Agong’
‘Agong,’ pronounced ah-kong, is a Chinese term meaning ‘grandfather.’ Within Thai-Chinese families, it is commonly used to denote an elder male relative.
In the current political discourse, the term has been adopted metaphorically. Critics are using it to describe what they allege is an influential older male figure operating behind the formal structures of the BMA, directing affairs from the shadows.
From Rumor to Formal Allegation
The phrase first entered public consciousness on June 2nd. Pol Lt Gen Chanthep Sesavej, the Economic Party’s candidate for Bangkok governor, discussed the alleged ‘Agong system’ in media interviews.
Pol Lt Gen Chanthep characterized the system as a deficiency in transparency within the BMA, suggesting connections to procurement processes, the management of Chatuchak Market, and the appointment and transfer of civil servants. He noted that while the term had been circulating informally for years, few had spoken openly about it.
According to his account, anecdotal evidence suggested that numerous matters within the BMA required intermediary approval before decisions could be finalized. When questioned about the number of individuals involved, Pol Lt Gen Chanthep indicated that reports pointed to two individuals, though he declined to disclose their identities.
Economic Party Elaborates on Claims
The issue gained broader public attention on June 6th when Economic Party leader and party-list MP Chris Potranandana elaborated on the allegations during a press conference. The party also released promotional materials and organized media events aimed at exposing what they described as a network of vested interests operating within City Hall.
Mr. Chris alleged the existence of a ‘shadow administration,’ which he termed the ‘Agong system,’ during Mr. Chadchart’s term. He claimed this network possessed connections that allowed it to exert influence over city operations beyond the official BMA oversight. He further alleged that the network included political appointees selected by the governor, as well as an individual reportedly linked to a broader Chulalongkorn University alumni network associated with Mr. Chadchart.
Allegations of Position Trading and Kickbacks
According to Mr. Chris, newly appointed district directors were allegedly invited to meet with a purported ringleader at a private residence. There, they were reportedly offered gifts or incentives in exchange for specific positions. Some sources, he stated, alleged that payments of up to 4 million baht were requested for district director appointments.
The party also asserted that it possesses evidence pertaining to the transfer of 16 district directors and one inspector. Mr. Chris suggested that some district directors later sought to recoup their expenses through revenue-generating activities linked to various departments, including city law enforcement, sanitation, environmental services, and public works.
Mr. Chris contended that even if Mr. Chadchart projected an image of integrity, any wrongdoing by subordinates could not be overlooked if an alleged shadow network had indeed operated within the administration.
Chadchart Demands Proof
Following Mr. Chris’s press conference, Mr. Chadchart swiftly rejected the allegations. He asserted that his administration operated on ethical principles and remained open to public scrutiny.
A key element of his response was a direct call for the Economic Party to submit any evidence to the appropriate authorities. He specifically challenged critics to provide proof supporting claims that district director positions were being bought and sold for 4 million baht, arguing that if such evidence existed, formal legal investigations should commence.
Mr. Chadchart maintained that appointments and transfers of civil servants during his administration adhered to established procedures. He denied the existence of any ‘shadow governor’ or hidden network influencing personnel decisions, and also refuted claims of a ticket-based system controlling appointments within City Hall.
Allies Consider Legal Recourse
Torsak Chotimongkol, former chairman of the Bangkok governor’s advisory team, denied any involvement in alleged position trading on Saturday. He initially stated he did not intend to respond as Mr. Chris had not explicitly named him, adding, “The truth is the truth and the public should make its own judgement.”
Mr. Torsak indicated that his legal team was evaluating potential legal action. He emphasized that election campaigning should remain constructive, irrespective of the circumstances. He also denied the existence of any patronage system within the BMA and stated that his legal team was prepared to file defamation lawsuits against those involved in Mr. Chris’s press conference should the situation escalate.
Mr. Chadchart stated he had conveyed his support for Mr. Torsak during the controversy and that they would continue to work together.
