As a consequence her appointment as the director of Central Institute of Forensic Science (CIFS) has not been confirmed.

Although the Cabinet approved her appointment in late 2005, Porntip is still officially acting director of CIFS until her appointment receives royal endorsement.

"The probe results have been delayed and I am the damaged party. I want the results to be released so that I can prove my innocence and reclaim my rights," Porntip said yesterday.

She said she had repeatedly submitted written pleas asking that the investigation be expedited, but to no avail.

"I have yet to receive justice," Porntip complained.

She said if the government closed CIFS, she would move to Laos to work.

In response to Porntip's complaints, Justice Minister Charnchai Likhitjittha yesterday said he had told Justice Ministry permanent secretary Jaral Pakdeethanakul several times to expedite the probe.

Charnchai said the latest development was that the probe panel's chairman Chaikasem Nitisiri, the deputy attorney general, had resigned from the panel and the ministry was waiting for the Office of the Attorney General to appoint a replacement.

"Our probe is focussing on why she opened that bank account," the justice minister said.

According to Charnchai, the Royal Thai Police were also investigating Porntip over other types of donations for tsunami victims. Many people had donated computer notebooks, digital cameras and cell phones to assist the tsunami relief operations.

The Nation