“Bhumtham” Insists on Same Standards for Khao Kradong and Alpine Investigations

Bangkok: “Phumtham” confirmed that the same standards will be used to investigate both Khao Kradong and Alpine, revealing that it was not a case of harassment and stating that he is ready to do his utmost to resolve the issue.

According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, acting as Prime Minister, addressed criticism from Mrs. Karun Chidchob, Vice President of Buriram United Football Club, regarding whether the revocation of the Khao Kradong land plot was harassment. He stated that it was not harassment and clarified that everything that had been done was a pending matter, not something suddenly brought up. The media, the public, and agencies had raised questions, prompting the establishment of a committee to investigate. The committee’s differing legal opinions proved that the land was state-owned from the beginning, and actions will follow the law.

Regarding compensation measures, particularly for the private sector involved in the construction of football fields and race tracks, Mr. Phumtham stated that he could not yet answer, as it would proceed according to the law. The Land Department and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) will jointly determine the outcomes. The process will adhere to legal requirements, and no further answers were provided at this time.

Mr. Phumtham confirmed that the same standards will apply to the Alpine Land issue, with inspections conducted without exception. He emphasized that the details must be reviewed, and court orders followed. Any lack of action will be revisited, assuring fairness and addressing any outstanding issues.

When questioned about resolving outstanding issues during his tenure as Interior Minister, particularly the two land cases, Mr. Bhumtham affirmed his commitment to doing his utmost, referencing his proactive stance in previous roles at the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Defense. He expressed his determination to address situations thoroughly, despite any potential transfers, emphasizing his dedication to resolving the issues at hand.