Court dismisses petition to overturn former park chief Rutchada's dismissal

Former director-general of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Rutchada Suriyakul Ayutthaya, has lost his bid to have his dismissal overturned.
The Central Administrative Court dismissed Ratchada's petition today (Saturday) for the court to overturn an order by the permanent secretary of natural resources and environment, issued on February 3rd, which removed him from government service pending the outcome of a disciplinary investigation into his alleged taking of bribes from his subordinates in exchange for promotions.
Rutchada was arrested at his office on December 27 last year by police from the Counter Corruption Division and officials from the National Anti-Corruption Commission. About five million baht in cash was found in his office.

The court ruled that, since the charges against Ratchada are serious and the case may have a negative impact on the reputation of the department, the permanent secretary, Jatuporn Buruspat, had exercised his discretion legally and his order to dismiss Rutchada was justified.