Governor Chadchart Refutes Patronage Allegations
Current Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has vehemently denied allegations of corruption and patronage within the city administration, challenging accusers to present evidence to anti-corruption authorities. He cautioned that disseminating false information during an election campaign could carry legal repercussions.
“Agong System” and Position Trading Accusations
The controversy surfaced following an announcement by the Economic Party of plans to hold a press conference addressing alleged corruption through what they termed the “Agong System.” Simultaneously, a former Bangkok Member of Parliament claimed that influential figures were involved in unfair appointments and transfers of district directors and senior city officials. These accusations included claims of “chair trading” and the buying and selling of government positions, with intentions to submit evidence to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC).
Governor’s Defense and Call for Evidence
Mr. Chadchart, who is seeking re-election in the upcoming gubernatorial election, dismissed the accusations, asserting that all appointments and transfers within City Hall have been conducted transparently, adhering to regulations set by the BMA Civil Service Commission. “If there is evidence, submit it immediately,” Mr. Chadchart stated. “Anyone making such allegations must be responsible for their words. Had there been real evidence of corruption, I would not have been able to continue working until today because issues of transparency are constantly scrutinised.”
He argued that accusations of position trading are serious matters impacting public administration and suggested they should have been raised earlier if credible evidence existed. “If anyone has information, they should bring it forward and submit it directly to the NACC rather than making vague accusations,” he added.
Dismissal of “Agong System” Claims
Regarding the alleged “Agong System,” which purportedly involves shady appointments of officials through a broker, Mr. Chadchart clarified that the term is fabricated and does not represent any actual mechanism within his administration. “There is no such system,” he asserted. “It is merely a label that has been created. As for advisers or individuals close to the governor meeting politicians from various parties, that is normal and should not be viewed as problematic.”
The governor also questioned the timing of these allegations, noting their emergence in the final stages of the Bangkok gubernatorial election campaign.
Procedural Issues in Appointments
Mr. Chadchart also addressed claims concerning the cancellation of appointment orders affecting nearly 20 district directors and inspectors. He explained that this issue arose from procedural concerns identified by the BMA Merit System Protection Commission, which determined that certain aspects of the selection process required correction.
