Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon has insisted the purchase of military hardware is corruption-free and that steps involved are transparent.
"Some people say that buying weapons has to involve commission payments, but we have never done it," said Gen Prawit, adding the process of buying weapons is clearly defined, ranging from selecting models, issuing median prices for bidding to specifying the criteria for supplying the weapons.
Prawit: Process is ‘transparent’
Gen Prawit was speaking as he presided over a seminar to mark the "Defence Ministry's transparency without corruption" project at the ministry Wednesday.
Deputy Defence Minister Udomdej Sitabutr, permanent secretary for defence Preecha Chan-o-cha, navy chief Na Areenij, air force chief Tritos Sonchaeng and army chief-of-staff Gen Pisit Sitthisarn also attended the event.
The project was jointly organised by the Defence Ministry and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) in a bid to bolster anti-graft awareness among ministry personnel.
Gen Prawit said the ministry plays an integral part in ensuring security for the country and boosting confidence among members of the public that the country is safe.
He said the defence budget must be used prudently for the benefit of the country.
He said Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha stepped in to stop political conflicts and ensure no corruption takes place.
He called on the ministry's personnel to uphold the prime minister's wish to keep conflicts at bay and maintain peace for people in the country.
"The military under the Defence Ministry gets revenue from people and we must repay people with our intellect and sacrifices to protect the country," Gen Prawit said.
"Unit commanders must make full efforts to ensure transparency without graft."
He said members of the public are closely watching how the ministry uses funds and the money must be used in a worthwhile manner.
"The Defence Ministry will be unable to create public confidence if it lacks transparency," Gen Prawit said. He said he wants to "move the organisation forward".