Thai Deputy Minister Addresses Bribery Allegations and Senator Election Irregularities

Chaiyachok Chitphob, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy and Society, appeared before the House of Representatives' Committee on Law, Justice, and Human Rights to clarify allegations of a 40 million baht bribe offer in exchange for not shutting down online gambling websites. He stated that after being alerted to the matter by Deputy Minister of Interior, Worasit Liangprasit, he immediately ordered the permanent secretary to set up an internal investigation committee to address the issue. He also spoke in Parliament to deny involvement and assert his stance against corruption. Following this, a concerned citizen provided a mysterious card with evidence, which he then handed over to the police, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for further investigation. When questioned by reporters about the identity of the bribe-offerer, Chaiyachok admitted uncertainty but believed it likely originated from another party, as the individuals questioned seemed incapable of operating gambling websites. He stated that since he clearly declared his position, no one has dared to make similar offers, leading to increased efficiency in the ministry's online crime crackdown. This has resulted in a reduction of scammer gangs by over 50% and the closure of more than 1 million online gambling URLs. Deputy Minister of Interior, Worasit Liangprasit, affirmed that upon receiving information about the bribe, he immediately notified the relevant authorities as it was an illegal act requiring prosecution. He expressed his readiness to clarify the matter to the committee with a clear conscience. Furthermore, Chaiyachok commented on the news that the Election Commission (EC) had dismissed the complaint against the Bhumjaithai Party regarding collusion in the Senator elections. He described it as a normal occurrence, as he and the Prime Minister had previously issued warnings to Bhumjaithai Party members against involvement in the Senator elections from the outset. He asserted that the evidence in the case clearly showed no connection on his part. Regarding the ongoing criticism from the Pheu Thai Party and iLaw, he viewed it as normal for the leading party and a stable government to become political targets. He mentioned consulting his legal team on whether to file defamation charges. Chaiyachok acknowledged a clear, multi-faceted operation to damage the Bhumjaithai Party but expressed confidence that the party has acted within regulations and the law. He stated he has not yet discussed this with Newin Chidchob or the Prime Minister, as he has no concerns. Information Source: INN News