Opponents seek disclosure on expense associated with pricey calendar production
Controversy Surrounds Social Security Office's Calendar Production in Thailand
A Member of Parliament (MP) from the People's Party, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, has called for a thorough review of the Social Security Office's (SSO) calendar production, which costs the public 50 million baht annually. Lakkhanaadisorn expressed concern over the majority of respondents in an online SSO survey stating they oppose the production of calendars.
In a Facebook post, Lakkhanaadisorn warned of severe consequences if the SSO continues to use public funds for a project that many do not support. He emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive investigation into all aspects of the project, including the number of calendars ordered, pricing, procurement, and distribution procedures.
If misconduct is found, Lakkhanaadisorn suggested that criminal charges should be filed against all involved officials, and the case referred to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for prosecution. Whistleblowers were invited to provide evidence of corruption, favoritism, or profiteering related to the calendar production or distribution.
Another People's Party MP, Rukchanok Srinork, who has been examining SSO spending, noted that the agency has been producing close to 5 million calendars every year for over a decade without competitive bidding. Distribution channels remain unclear, with many subscribers unaware of the calendars.
Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn defended the calendar project, arguing that the minority who still want the calendars should not be ignored. He stressed that the majority's disapproval does not mean the minority's feelings are unimportant. He emphasized that the production of the calendars requires a year-long planning cycle, and the current public consultation would influence the 2027 calendar production.
The Social Security Fund is Thailand's largest public fund, valued at 2.65 trillion baht, and provides welfare and financial security for 24 million members. The controversy surrounding the SSO's calendar production raises concerns about transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. A full investigation into the project's various aspects is being sought to ensure transparency and accountability.
The controversy surrounding the Social Security Office's calendar production has sparked discussions in various sectors, including politics, business, and general-news, as the issue involves the misuse of public funds to the tune of 50 million baht annually. The call for a thorough investigation into all aspects of the project, including procurement, pricing, and distribution, has also extended to the crime-and-justice sphere, with suggestions for penalizing officials found guilty of corruption. Whistleblowers have been urged to come forward and provide evidence of any wrongdoing related to the calendar production or distribution.
