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May 20, 2026 – Thailand –
Thailand’s Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin publicly apologised to a journalist after a tense confrontation at Government House triggered criticism from media organisations and political observers.
The dispute began when reporters questioned Suchart about a corruption survey that identified the Pollution Control Department as the government agency with the highest average alleged bribe value per case. The survey was conducted by the Zero Corruption working group under the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking, alongside anti-corruption partners.
During the exchange, journalists asked whether the ministry planned to launch an investigation into the allegations. Suchart responded by demanding evidence to support the findings and argued that accusations without proof could damage the morale and reputation of ministry officials. He compared the departments under his ministry to “children,” saying it was his responsibility to defend them unless wrongdoing was clearly established.
The situation escalated after one reporter repeatedly questioned why the ministry appeared defensive instead of initiating an inquiry. Suchart insisted that ministry officials had already reviewed the matter and maintained that the Pollution Control Department mainly handled technical and academic duties rather than issuing permits or licenses commonly associated with bribery risks.
Following the interview, videos circulated online appearing to show the minister brushing against the reporter while leaving the media area. The journalist was heard confronting Suchart about the contact, while the minister replied that the reporter did not know him well enough. The footage quickly spread across Thai media and social media platforms, prompting debate over the treatment of journalists and press relations with government officials.
About an hour later, Suchart visited the reporters’ work area inside Government House and apologised directly to the journalist involved in the dispute. He greeted the reporter respectfully, admitted he had spoken harshly, and acknowledged that both sides viewed the issue differently. The journalist accepted the apology, and the two later shook hands.
Suchart also apologised to members of the press more broadly, saying he had reflected on the exchange during a Cabinet meeting and decided it was important to resolve the issue personally. The incident renewed discussions in Thailand about government transparency, media scrutiny, and the relationship between public officials and journalists covering allegations of corruption.
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