Bangkok: Chalermchai, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, has openly challenged accusations of demanding money in exchange for appointing the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. He urged anyone accusing him of asking for 100 million baht to come forward and swear with him that the allegations are true. Chalermchai emphasized his intention to manage the ministry by prioritizing the best interests of the organization and the people.
According to Thai News Agency, Chalermchai Sri-on, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, addressed the appointment of a new permanent secretary following the resignation of Mr. Chatuporn Buruspat, who left to become the Minister of Commerce. Chalermchai stated that the process of selecting a suitable candidate is underway, highlighting the capabilities of many senior executives within the ministry.
Chalermchai refuted claims that he demanded '100 bunches of bananas'-a euphemism for 100 million baht-in exchange for the appointment. He challenged those spreading the allegations to meet him at Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram or Wat Phra Kaew and swear to the truth of their claims. Chalermchai questioned the credibility of the accusations, pointing out the deletion of previous social media posts by the accuser. He reiterated that he would not exploit the appointment and transfer process of civil servants and invited any consequences if he were guilty of such actions. He also urged those spreading false news to cease harming the organization.
Furthermore, Chalermchai addressed rumors about the Pheu Thai Party's interest in transferring the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior to the Ministry of Natural Resources to facilitate a new appointment in the Ministry of Interior. He noted that the Pheu Thai Party has always respected the Democrat Party's decisions. He also dismissed rumors about the Kla Tham Party seeking the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives for the Ministry of Natural Resources, citing the impending retirement of the current Agriculture Secretary. Chalermchai stressed the importance of considering the organization's and public's best interests in appointing the new Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.