NACC Finds Former MP Katathep Guilty of Corruption in Solar Well Project
Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission has indicted former MP Katathep Techadechruengkul for allegedly soliciting bribes from contractors.
On October 16, 2026, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) of Thailand announced that it has formally indicted Katathep Techadechruengkul, a former Member of Parliament and leader of the Palang Thai Rak Thai Party, for corruption. According to NACC spokesperson Nitiphan Prachuabmoh, the investigation concluded that in 2020, Katathep and his associates solicited approximately 1.09 million baht in advance payments from construction contractors.
The scheme involved promising contractors access to solar-powered groundwater well projects under the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, which were then in the process of requesting budget allocations. The NACC alleges that the group falsely claimed they could secure these government contracts in exchange for the illicit payments.
For residents and observers of Thai politics, this case highlights ongoing efforts by anti-corruption bodies to investigate misconduct involving public infrastructure projects. While the NACC has concluded its investigation and issued its findings, the case will now proceed through the judicial process. It remains to be confirmed how the courts will rule on these allegations and what specific legal penalties may be imposed on the former MP and his associates. This development serves as a reminder of the scrutiny applied to government procurement processes in Thailand.
