New Thai ministers pledge to suppress corruption

BANGKOK, July 6 (TNA) – New Thai ministers who have either been appointed to new posts or joined the government in the fifth cabinet reshuffle, the latest under Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra administration, on Saturday pledged to combat corruption and allow the public to scrutinise the nearly two-year-old government. Their pledge, aimed at “further developing Thailand”, was made during the weekly TV and radio programme hosted by the prime minister. Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Niwattumrong Boonsongpaisan, formerly minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, said he intends to further efficient the commerce ministry, plugging corruption and to serve agriculturists. He said he could help solve problems on the government-sponsored rice-pledging scheme, which is being heavily attacked by opposition political parties and academics. Varathep Ratanakorn, minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office and also deputy minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, said corruption prevention within the ministry would give an opportunity to every sector to help in probing any irregularities and simultaneously assist in boosting agriculturists’ income. Newly appointed Justice Minister Chaikasem Nitisiri opined that his ministry plays a significant role in preventing and suppressing corruption. He said he will order officials at the Office of Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission to strictly check up on every government agencies and uncover any of their corruption practice. Beside, his ministry will issue anti-corruption laws in preparations for the implementation of ASEAN Economic Community, due to be formed at the end of 2015. (TNA)