Bangkok: The Cabinet has acknowledged guidelines prohibiting government officials from charging their personal vehicles for free at government charging stations. The guidelines stipulate that if charging is provided as a benefit to personnel, separate stations must be installed.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Anukul Prueksanusak, deputy government spokesman, disclosed that the Cabinet recognized the recommendations aimed at preventing the misuse of public resources and conflicts of interest. The guidelines were proposed by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to stop government officials from charging their private electric vehicles at government facilities without permission.
Mr. Anukul outlined the draft recommendations, emphasizing the need for clear criteria or guidelines for government agencies to follow. These measures are intended to prevent the exploitation of public resources and ensure there is no conflict between personal and public interests. The guidelines mandate that government entities providing charging facilities as a welfare benefit must have explicit regulations in place, including control measures and penalties for unauthorized use.
Furthermore, government agencies and state enterprises are required to display signs at charging stations, indicating that they serve the government’s interests. Should an agency choose to provide charging as a welfare benefit, it must establish separate facilities for personal vehicles. This initiative aligns with existing regulations on welfare organization within government agencies, allowing for specified service fees to prevent financial burdens on government entities.
The Cabinet has tasked the Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC) with leading the effort, in collaboration with central human resource management organizations and relevant ministries, to finalize the guidelines. The OCSC is expected to compile and present the findings and recommendations to the Cabinet within 30 days following notification.