Thai deputy minister in trouble with anti-graft body
AFP

BANGKOK, Aug 29: Thailand’s ruling Thai Rak Thai party faces another bruising battle with the anti-corruption commission after one of its Cabinet ministers was formally accused today of financial wrongdoing.

Deputy Industry Minister Pichet Sathirachawal has been charged with failing to properly declare his assets — the same offence that nearly cost Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra his job last year.

National Counter Corruption Commission (NCCC) secretary-general Klanarong Chanthick said the case would be submitted to the Constitutional Court. If found guilty, he could be suspended from politics for five years.

"The NCCC has unanimously decided that Pichet intended to hide his property and debts, and the case will be submitted to the Constitutional Court," he said.

Pichet said he was confident of winning the case, but suggested that the timing of the charges indicated they were politically motivated.

"I'm not concerned because I can explain my case, but I am confused as to why the case has come up just before a cabinet reshuffle," he said.

Thaksin defended his minister, saying that the offence did not qualify as corruption.

"He is not corrupt, he just failed to report all his property," he added. — AFP

But that's the point, Mr Prime Minister!