Bangkok: A junior monk at Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan has revealed that the assistant abbot, known as “Chao Khun Prasit,” has always adhered to moral principles. The monk, however, disclosed that he has no information regarding the current whereabouts of Chao Khun Prasit or whether he has disrobed, amid allegations linking him to a female golfer.
According to Thai News Agency, Phra Khru Winai Thon Wichian Wachirathammo, an assistant abbot at Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan, announced the formation of a committee to investigate the allegations against Phra Theppawarametee, or Chao Khun Prasit. The accusations involve an alleged relationship with a female golfer. The temple’s abbot and governing monks are expected to write to Phra Theppawarametee, asking him to clarify the facts. It is anticipated that the investigation will conclude within seven days. Although contact has been made with Chao Khun Prasit, his exact location remains unknown.
Phra Khru Winai Thon Wichian affirmed that Chao Khun Prasit has been a monk who has consistently upheld moral principles for over 40 years. He noted that Ms. Golf, the female golfer in question, used to frequently visit the temple to make merit by opening a charity kitchen to provide water to monks and laypeople. She was often accompanied by Phra Thep Wachira Thirakorn, the former abbot of Wat Phra Phutthachai, along with other monks. However, Ms. Golf has not visited the temple for more than two years, and Phra Khru Winai Thon Wichian has no knowledge of any personal relationship between her and Chao Khun Prasit.
Addressing concerns about potential embezzlement of temple funds, Phra Khru Winai Thon Wichian clarified that Chao Khun Prasit did not have the authority to withdraw money from the temple’s account. Such authority lies solely with the abbot of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan. The police are currently handling the investigation, seeking evidence from forensic science to determine if any offense occurred. Should any misconduct be confirmed, it will be dealt with according to legal and monastic disciplinary procedures.
The potential disciplinary actions include Parajika offenses, which cover severe transgressions such as engaging in sexual intercourse, theft of significant value, murder, or boasting of supernatural powers. Lesser offenses, such as inappropriate contact or conduct with women, fall under Sanghatisesa offenses and do not reach the severity of Parajika.