Local residents were seen engaging in workouts at Wachirabenjathat Park, affectionately known as Suan Rod Fai, in Chatuchak district on June 6. (Photo: Pornprom Satrabhaya)
The scene contrasts sharply with the political tempest brewing over alleged corruption in a gym equipment procurement project. The opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) is exerting pressure on the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to disclose the findings of its investigation into the scandal.
Suphanat Meenchainan, representing Chatuchak, Bang Khen, and Lak Si districts for the MFP, voiced his concerns on Monday, highlighting that these irregularities came to light back in June through online platforms. The BMA is accused of misconduct in the procurement process at nine of its sports centers, resulting in losses amounting to a staggering 103.2 million baht.
In light of these revelations, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt had swiftly ordered an inquiry, tasking his officials to complete it within 30 days, according to Mr. Suphanat. However, the promised transparency seems to have gotten lost in the shuffle since the investigation’s deadline on July 19 passed without public disclosure of the findings.
The only snippet of information came on July 24, when Governor Chadchart reportedly labeled the investigation’s conclusions as confidential. This evasiveness has fueled further speculations and frustrations.
Mr. Suphanat lamented the lack of clarity regarding whether the procurement indeed involved corrupt practices. To elucidate the issue, he proposed the BMA employ the “three-leveled lock” theory. According to this theory, gym equipment officials embed specific features, fix prices at inflated middle-market levels, and contractors are confined to low-budget allocations due to the absence of clear procurement standards.
This kind of malpractice isn’t new to the region; gym equipment procurement corruption is purported to be a widespread issue, facilitated by vague regulations from the Comptroller General’s Department.
Adding to the chorus of dissent, Pattaraporn Kengrungreaungchai, the Bangkok Council representative for Bang Sue district, disclosed her attempts to add this probe to the council’s agenda. Unfortunately, a scheduled meeting was axed before any discussions could take place.
Ms. Pattaraporn pointed fingers at warped procurement procedures, revealing that only a select few contractors were winning bids. These contractors, however, would frequently back out if challenged with allegations of unfair contract terms.
She echoed a common sentiment: the investigation’s outcomes must be laid bare to the public. Transparency, she argued, is indispensable in thwarting the convoluted and unscrupulous procurement methods that currently plague the system.
This scandal is outrageous! The BMA absolutely needs to disclose their findings. There’s no room for this kind of corruption in public services.
I agree, Jane! The lack of transparency is really concerning. How can we trust the administration if they keep everything confidential?
Confidentiality often means they’re hiding something. If there was nothing shady, they would have published the findings by now.
Not sure what all the fuss is about. It’s just gym equipment. Let’s focus on more important issues.
Charlie, it’s not just about gym equipment. It’s about how public money is being used. If they can get away with this, what’s next?
Exactly! It’s about setting a precedent. If we let this slide, we’re saying it’s okay to misuse funds meant for public good.
103.2 million baht? That’s an insane amount to lose to corruption. The BMA needs immediate oversight!
Oversight is key. We need independent bodies to monitor these processes. An internal investigation obviously isn’t cutting it.
Sarah, independent bodies cost money too. More bureaucracy isn’t the solution. The existing systems need to simply be held accountable.
True, Theo, but without some form of oversight, it’s too easy for these things to continue unchecked. Accountability needs a watchdog.
The BMA’s inability to address this issue openly makes me question everything about their governance. We’re owed at least an explanation.
Absolutely, Sophia. Public officials should be held to higher standards. Secrecy only breeds mistrust.
Does anyone really believe this ‘three-leveled lock’ theory? Sounds like a convenient excuse for shoddy procurement practices.
Grower134, given the history of procurement issues in the region, it’s definitely plausible. What’s concerning is that it takes huge amounts of money without delivering results.
I see your point, Jackie. It’s just frustrating that such tactics keep getting repeated without consequence.
Good on Ms. Pattaraporn for trying to bring the issue to the council’s agenda. But why was the meeting canceled? That raises more red flags.
If a meeting was canceled, it means there are interests trying to bury the issue. We need to get louder about this!
This entire situation is just a symptom of a larger problem in public procurement. There needs to be a complete overhaul of how these contracts are awarded.
Transparency is non-negotiable. The BMA’s evasion only worsens public trust.
I couldn’t agree more, Redwing. If officials are allowed to evade scrutiny, it sets a terrible example for all public sectors.
Governor Chadchart’s actions were initially promising, but now it seems like more of the same old politics. What a letdown.
Mike, you hit the nail on the head. It’s always promises and no follow-through. We need leaders who walk the talk.
Exactly, Ricky. Accountability starts at the top, and right now, it’s MIA.
It’s frustrating and saddening that the sport centers we rely on for community health and well-being are entangled in such a mess.
Any bets on whether we’ll ever see the results of this investigation? At this rate, I’m not holding my breath.
The public deserves full transparency, especially given that it was OUR money that potentially got misused. No more secrets!
Another scandal, another round of promises to fix things. I’ll believe it when I see real action and not just words.