Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has strongly rejected accusations that she falsified her asset declaration, calling the allegations unfounded and politically driven. These claims, which surfaced in a report by Isra News Agency, suggest that she concealed a substantial 4.4 billion baht debt owed to close family members. The premier has responded with firm denials and legal clarifications.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Responds to Allegations: “This is a Family Matter”
In a press conference held at Government House, Paetongtarn addressed the accusations head-on, emphasizing that the alleged debt was simply a personal matter between her and her relatives. “It’s a debt between me and my relatives,” she stated. “I have submitted all relevant details to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), and there is no way I could hide any legal transactions. I also possess promissory notes to support this debt.”
The controversy gained traction after Isra News published a report alleging that Paetongtarn’s asset declaration hid a family transaction meant to avoid taxes on a significant 4.4 billion baht transaction. According to the report, the prime minister issued promissory notes to her mother, Khunying Potjaman Na Pombejra, and her siblings to purchase shares, raising questions about the legitimacy of these notes due to a lack of payment terms and valuation details.
The Assets and Debts Statement: Transparency Under Scrutiny
The NACC asset declaration revealed that Paetongtarn and her husband hold assets valued at 13.99 billion baht, alongside 4.41 billion baht in debts. The report from Isra claimed that the promissory notes, which were issued for shares, were potentially designed to be tax-evading gifts. The lack of specific payment terms or valuation in the notes prompted concerns over whether the transaction was truly a loan or effectively a gift, which could trigger tax liabilities.
Despite these accusations, Prime Minister Paetongtarn maintained her innocence, asserting, “I haven’t broken any laws.” She dismissed the parallels drawn between her situation and that of her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who faced similar accusations of nominee shareholding. The prime minister remained firm in her defense, denying any wrongdoing.
Further Controversy: Loan Complaint Against Paetongtarn’s Husband
Amidst the asset allegations, another controversy emerged when serial petitioner Ruangkrai Leekitwattana filed a complaint against Paetongtarn’s husband, Pitaka Suksawat, over a 12.77 million baht loan. Paetongtarn, however, quickly dismissed the complaint, accusing Ruangkrai of attempting to extort money. “He’s done this before. I’m not concerned,” the prime minister responded, refusing to be drawn into further disputes.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Defends Her Father Amid Racist Remarks Backlash
In related developments, Prime Minister Paetongtarn also defended her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, after his controversial racist comments during a rally on January 6. Thaksin’s remarks were widely criticized for being discriminatory, sparking calls for Paetongtarn to publicly address his comments. Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit urged the prime minister to reprimand her father, adding to the ongoing public scrutiny.
Public Reaction: Political Allegations and Family Matters
Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s combative responses to the allegations and her defense of her family have sparked mixed reactions. While some have rallied behind her, urging the public to separate political and personal matters, others continue to question the transparency of the premier’s financial dealings.
In light of these controversies, many are calling for greater transparency and accountability from public officials regarding their assets and financial transactions. The unfolding situation is set to remain a point of heated debate as the prime minister continues to defend her actions.