Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaised’s son-in-law was arrested for allegedly extorting 600,000 baht from tap water contractors who tender bids for the installation of a tap water system in Taluk Doo and Hat Thanong sub-district municipalities. He tendered his hand written resignation letter to Uthai Thani governor.
Weerachart Rasamee, son-in-law of Chada who had been assigned by the interior minister to lead the suppression of influential people nationwide said in his hand written resignation letter that he was the mayor of Taluk Doo municipality in Thap Than district of Uthai Thani was charged with extortion and bribery. He denied all the charges but to show the political responsibility, he decided to resign from the post, effective on October 24 at 11.30pm.
Mr Teerapat Kachamat, Governor of Uthai Thani Province said that although Mr Weerachart resigned, he would be put under investigation normally.
Mr Chada said that after his son-in-law was arrested and bailed, he apologized after his released. He told to Mr. Weerachart that no needs to say anything as he is in the family. He then instructed his son-in-law to resign, so that local people can elect a new mayor.
Mr Chada said he did not want his son-in-law to simply be suspended from duties as the mayor pending legal action relating to the case. His suspension will only hamper the provision of public services in the municipal area and considered to take advantage against the people in Taluk Doo municipality.
Mr Weerachart finally resigned so that there will be new election which is the standard of the local politics, said Mr Chada. Pol Maj Gen Jaroonkiat Pankaew, commander of the Anti-Corruption Division said there are enough evidences and the police would expand the investigation.
The commander said he held talks with Mr Chada who instructs him to do everything in accordance with the law and vowed that he will not let his son-in-law to muddle with the evidences.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said he was surprised when knowing the news about the arrest of Mr Chada’s son-in-law. He said Mr Weerachart should be treated fairly but he will be prosecuted if he is found doing misconduct activities. No one will be above the law, although he has connection with the minister or anybody. (TNA)
