Bangkok: “Phumtham” has received a formal letter from the Andaman Group, urging immediate action to clarify the ongoing Khao Kradong land issue. The group has threatened the “Director-General of the Land Department” with the formation of an investigation committee if no clarification is provided. The letter also demands that the Administrative Court’s decision to dismiss the revocation of 955 land plots be addressed. The group has cautioned against any response from “Anutin” unless he is confident in his stance, emphasizing their hope for transparency for the public.
According to Thai News Agency, representatives from the Andaman Group submitted the letter to Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, who is currently serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, as well as acting Prime Minister. The letter requests that the Ministry of Interior adhere to the guidelines set by the Supreme Court and the Administrative Court regarding the Kradong area in Buriram Province.
Mr. Phumtham announced that he has established a committee following an order for Mr. Pornpoj Penpas, Director-General of the Land Department, to investigate the Khao Kradong land issue due to significant public interest and concern. He emphasized the need for clarity, stating that since the Supreme Court and Administrative Court have issued orders, there should be no deviation from these directives. The Director-General has been instructed to clarify the matter within a week. Should the explanation prove unsatisfactory or lack sufficient reasoning, an investigation committee will be formed to ensure legal compliance. However, if the provided reasons are valid and lawful, it will be considered as adherence to official duties.
In response to questions about the timeframe for resolving this long-standing issue, Mr. Phumtham expressed that he did not wish to impose a time constraint due to unknown conditions but assured that efforts would be made to expedite the process.
Regarding the possibility of the Interior Ministry canceling 99 land titles after the Administrative Court dismissed the petition, Mr. Phumtham stated that legal considerations must be made. He noted that the court’s order already encompasses the entire area, but any legal actions could be pursued independently.
When questioned about the potential for the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) to independently file a lawsuit concerning all 995 plots, Mr. Phumtham admitted uncertainty, indicating that it was a matter for the court to decide in accordance with the Supreme Court and Administrative Court orders. He refrained from providing legal explanations, leaving such matters to the legal department. He mentioned that Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and former Minister of the Interior, had previously clarified his actions as correct, alleviating any concerns and negating the need for a response. The issue, he stressed, was not only his concern but also that of the public.