Report Thai Interior Minister Denies Interference in Khao Kradong Land Case

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Touronthai

 

In a tense unfolding of political and legal intrigue, Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has firmly rejected claims of manipulation in a high-profile investigation targeting the Department of Lands (DoL). The investigation concerns a contentious 5,083-rai plot in Khao Kradong, Buriram, a region long embroiled in legal tussles and political connections.

 

Two years ago, the Supreme Court determined that this expanse of land is the rightful property of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) and mandated the DoL to annul the title deeds. However, as of today, approximately 900 deeds remain unchanged. Intriguingly, 20 of these, covering 288 rai, are tied to the powerful Chidchob family, closely linked with the Bhumjaithai Party.

 

Despite the judicial decision, substantial portions of the land remain under the control of influential figures, fuelling speculation about whether there has been wilful defiance of the court's order.

 

The SRT, armed with court support, has sought the land’s return, even as segments of it serve state purposes, such as road projects and hospital sites, with apparent SRT approval.

 

Some Bhumjaithai Party representatives have questioned the investigation's timing, suggesting it might be politically motivated, given the Pheu Thai Party's recent acquisition of the Interior Ministry. However, Phumtham, currently acting as prime minister, maintains that the probe is routine.

 

"I had no desire to get mixed up in this issue," Phumtham expressed. "I never aimed to intimidate or mistreat any [DoL] staff. But the Khao Kradong land matter is widely-followed."

 

He emphasised that Deputy Minister Dech-it Khaothong, who is leading the investigation into DoL Director-General Pornpoth Penpas's inaction, faces no deadlines.

 

"While I did call Pornpoth in for discussions, I didn't pass judgment on his actions. There are lingering questions about his involvement, and we're working to resolve them."

 

This week, a seven-member committee, including independent figures like Chettha Mosikarat, was established on Monday to assess possible disciplinary actions against Pornpoth. Their task is not without controversy.

 

Supachai Jaisamut, head of Bhumjaithai’s legal division, criticised the panel's composition, particularly highlighting the inclusion of a Department of Corrections officer and an SRT lawyer—a clear party in the dispute.

 

Supachai cautioned that this new inquiry might disrupt the ongoing Administrative Court proceedings, labelling it a "potentially unlawful intervention motivated by concealed objectives."

 

As questions swirl and political tensions simmer, one thing is certain: the Khao Kradong land drama promises to be a significant test of legal integrity and political accountability in Thailand. The eyes of the nation remain fixed on how these developments will unfold, potentially reshaping political landscapes and legal precedents.

 

In this complex tapestry of legal and political manoeuvres, all stakeholders watch closely, mindful that the outcome could set crucial precedents in land rights and governance in Thailand.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-24

 

 

[Will B Good]

8 minutes ago, snoop1130 said:

He emphasised that Deputy Minister Dech-it Khaothong, who is leading the investigation into DoL Director-General Pornpoth Penpas's inaction, faces no deadlines.

 

...faces no deadlines.

 

Always a good sign that people are on top of things and doing their level best to reach a fair conclusion.