Bangkok: Phumtham, acting Prime Minister, has reassured the public not to worry about the Ban Nong Chan issue, following a miscommunication by the Sa Kaeo governor regarding land title deeds. The governor clarified that the previous statement was inaccurate, with Phumtham emphasizing that evidence will resolve the matter.

According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, responded to comments made by Mr. Parinya Phothisat, the Governor of Sa Kaeo Province. The governor had previously informed the ASEAN Temporary Observer Team that Ban Nong Chan in Khok Sung District lacked title deeds and was considered forest land. This led to a claim by Cambodia that the area was not part of Thailand. Phumtham reassured the public, stating, “The governor has clarified that it was a miscommunication. The area has a SorKor.1 document, which may have been misunderstood as a title deed.”

Phumtham stressed the importance of relying on evidence and the truth, urging the public not to be swayed by social media movements or misinterpretations of the governor’s words. He emphasized that the presence of documentation like the SorKor.1 document supports Thailand’s claim, and there should be no concern about distorted information affecting the country’s interests.

Addressing concerns about potential misinformation shared with the temporary observer group, Phumtham stated that any misinformation would only harm Thailand’s position. He noted that the situation resolves itself when evidence proves previous statements incorrect, highlighting the necessity of transparency and truthfulness in resolving such disputes.