March 13, 2008
BANGKOK - Bangkok Governor said Thursday he would suspend his official duties after an anti-graft panel decided to press corruption charges against him and four others.
Apirak Kosayodhin, who is also the second-highest official in Thailand's largest opposition Democrat Party, told reporters he would stop working as governor but would not resign.
"I would like to cease my role as the governor from today, until a court rules on the case," Apirak told reporters, flanked by the party's leader, Abhisit Vejjajiva.
Apirak declined to discuss the alleged corruption. His four-year term is to expire in August.
The announcement came after the Assets Examination Committee (AEC) decided late Wednesday to press graft charges against the governor and four senior officials.
The five were allegedly involved in corruption over the procurement of fire trucks and boats worth 6.7 billion baht (21.3 million dollars).
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, a former Bangkok governor, is also under investigation in the case.
