I quit to set political standard : Apirak

"Like the Democrat Party, I support a move that will perpetuate politics-for-people," Apirak said yesterday at a press conference after announcing that he would quit his post.

His resignation would take effect on November 19.

The announcement came a day after the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) ruled that Apirak had committed a legal violation when he authorised payment for the scandal-plagued fire-vehicle procurement project.

Other politicians, including Samak Sundaravej and Bhokin Bhalakula , were also found guilty.

Yesterday, Apirak maintained that he had done nothing wrong.

"I have complete confidence in my innocence. I am ready to see my case go through the judicial system. I am confident that I will receive justice in the end," the city governor said.

Public prosecutors will likely decide whether to bring Apirak's case to court within 30 days.

Apirak called the press conference to announce his resignation yesterday after discussing his move with the Democrat Party top members for hours. It was under the Democrat banner that Apirak ran successful gubernatorial bids twice.

Earlier, the Democrat Party had made repeated calls for People Power Party members to give up their Cabinet posts after the Assets Examination Committee - which then handled the NACC works - found them guilty.

None heeded the calls.

By laws, Apirak may retain his post until the court announces its ruling. By just refraining from doing his work, Apirak will already show his political responsibility.

However, he announced his resignation to set a standard for politicians.

"I hope people will have faith in the Democrat Party," Apirak said.

He decided to stay in office for some more days because Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) was among the agencies organising the royal ceremonies and activities for HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana's royal cremation.

The late Princess was the beloved sister of His Majesty the King and a great contributor to Thai society.

The royal ceremonies, which will begin on November 14, will run till next Wednesday.

"I want to ensure that my resignation has the least impacts on BMA works," Apirak said.

Apirak has served as Bangkok governor for the past four years. On October 5, he was re-elected following a landslide victory.

Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva yesterday praised Apirak's decision to step down after the anti-graft agency indicted him in connection with the fire-engine purchase scandal.

Abhisit said Apirak, who is a deputy party leader, made a difficult decision and set a new standard in Thai politics.

"Apirak's decision set a standard many people want to see in Thai politics. It's praiseworthy and he deserves moral support from society," said Abhisit, who is also the opposition leader.

"It's not easy for him to make such a decision in the midst of expectations from his supporters and voters. Many of them believe he would win the case and they think he didn't need to make a decision that way. But I think his decision was right," he said. 

Abhisit, speaking at his party's headquarters, said the Democrats sympathised with the re-elected governor. Whatever Apirak decided: approving the letter of credit or not, he would be in legal trouble, Abhisit added.

"We believe in Apirak and are ready to offer him full legal aid," said the Democrat leader.