Thai PM Warns Corrupt Officials: “A Thief Always Leaves Traces”
Thai PM Warns Corrupt Officials: “A Thief Always Leaves Traces”
BANGKOK, May 22, 2026 — Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered all government agencies to fully disclose public information and eliminate unnecessary secrecy as part of a nationwide anti-corruption initiative launched jointly with the private sector.
Speaking at Government House after chairing the first integrated public-private meeting on corruption prevention and suppression, Anutin said transparency and accountability were essential to rebuilding public trust and strengthening Thailand’s international credibility.
The meeting brought together senior ministers, anti-corruption advocates, the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries and the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB), along with representatives from 35 state agencies.
Anutin said the discussions were organised following concerns raised by private sector groups regarding transparency and corruption risks in public administration.
He instructed ministries and state departments to review their operations to ensure transparency, legal compliance and full auditability, while also expanding the use of modern technology to reduce corruption risks and improve public access to information.
“I have instructed officials to disclose everything,” Anutin said, adding that laws restricting transparency should be amended where necessary.
He said corruption could not be effectively addressed if agencies continued selectively releasing information or withholding public data without clear legal justification.
The prime minister also urged authorities to submit evidence involving alleged misconduct by civil servants or ministers to investigative agencies, including the National Anti-Corruption Commission, the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission and anti-money laundering authorities.
“A thief always leaves traces,” he said.
Anutin also criticised the methodology behind the Corruption Perceptions Index, arguing that it relied too heavily on perception rather than verified legal findings.
Business groups welcomed the government’s move, with Thai Chamber of Commerce chairman Poj Aramwattananont praising the administration’s rapid response and emphasis on structural reform rather than politically targeted investigations.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has already instructed departments under its supervision to identify corruption vulnerabilities, particularly in procurement procedures and licensing systems.
Thai authorities said state agencies would now be expected to implement broader disclosure requirements, review existing legal frameworks and increase the use of digital systems to improve transparency and accountability across government operations.
