By D. Arul Rajoo, Bernama,
Bangkok : Just a month after re-election for another four-year-term, Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin has resigned, following his indiction in the 6.68 billion baht (RM1 = 9.7baht) scheme to buy fire trucks and fire boats from an Austrian firm.
Apirak told a press conference here Wednesday that he was relinquishing the coveted post to face possible charges in court after the National Counter Corruption Commission (NCCC) decided yesterday he was involved in the alleged irregularities.
“I am confident in the justice system of the country and I want to clear my name. After consulting my family and Democrat leaders, I have decided to resign,” he said.
Apirak, who oversees the metropolitan of over 10 million people, said his resignation would take place on Nov 19, after the royal cremation of Princess Galyani Vadhana, sister of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
The NCCC said Apirak, a deputy leader of the Democrat party, had signed an order to issue a letter of credit for the purchase of the 315 fire trucks and 30 fire boats, which critics claimed the purchase price was inflated.
Also indicted was former prime minister Samak Sundaravej who was the governor when the purchase was approved, former interior minister Pokin Polakul and several other officials.
NCCC said those indicted would be charged at the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Post.
During his re-election last month, Apirak clinched over 991,000 votes or 45.93 per cent of the total votes, to win the poll against 15 other candidates, including the country’s ruling People Power Party nominee Prapat Wongsanguan.
The Election Commission is expected to hold a new election within 90 days of Apirak’s resignation.
Although he could have stayed on and fought his case in the court, Apirak said he wanted to show responsibility and adhere to Democrat’s high standard for office-bearers.
Democrat is expected to name another senior leader, Korn Chatikavanij, to contest the poll.