Apirak resigns

Apirak Kosayodhin quit as Bangkok governor on Wednesday after the anti-corruption panel found that he was corrupt in connection with the purchase of fire trucks and boats for the city government.

The Bangkok governor made his intentions clear at a news conference held at the Democrat party’s head office.

His resignation will be effective Nov 19, the last day of the royal cremation ceremonies for Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana.

His resignation was anticipated by the media, after the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) voted unanimously to seek his indictment for his role in alleged irregularities involving the 6.68-billion-baht scheme to buy 315 fire trucks and 30 fire boats from the Austrian firm, Steyr Co.

Mr Apirak, who had suspended his governor’s role after the indictment, vowed to fight the case in court.

"I have faith in the judiciary system of Thailand, and believe that I'll be treated fairly," he said.

Mr Apirak, who was re-elected as the Bangkok governor on Oct 5 with a landslide victory, said he would return to political arena after his name is cleared.

"I am willing to be scrutinised," he said. "And once the court has completed the examination, I will return."