Bangkok: Checked 7 accounts of Wat Trithatthep, no money leaked to other persons found. Wat Trithatthep has appointed a new temple administrator. After checking 7 temple accounts, no money was found to have leaked to other persons, apart from the temple committee’s approval.
According to Thai News Agency, progress in the audit of the income and expenditure accounts of Wat Trithatthep has been made following initial concerns raised by Pol. Lt. Col. Charoenkiat Pankaew, Deputy Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau. The temple was previously noted for lacking cooperation, which led to the appointment of new treasurers by the acting abbot, Phra Phromwachirarangsi. Professor Emeritus Thongthong Chandrangsu has been appointed as treasurer for legal affairs, with Mr. Surachai Chaiyaintu and Mr. Chaichet Pree-ngam overseeing finance and administration, respectively, effective from July 1, 2025.
The news team recently interviewed Professor Pisek Thongthong, who confirmed that Wat Trithatthep’s property management system is well-organized. The temple generates income from real estate rentals, including the crematorium managed by the Mahamakut Foundation, and a lease agreement with the Royal Thai Police for welfare management. The foundation contributes approximately 2 million baht annually to the temple, with additional income from merit-making activities and other services. Financial transactions are overseen by a committee of seven senior monks, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Professor Thongthong further clarified that the temple’s accounts are closely monitored, with no unauthorized withdrawals detected. The accounts are managed through a controlled system requiring multiple approvals for transactions. While the total amount in the accounts remains undisclosed, ongoing efforts are being made to collect and verify all relevant documents. Professor Thongthong expressed his willingness to cooperate with law enforcement if needed and has scheduled a meeting to report progress in mid-July.
Regarding personal accounts, Professor Thongthong mentioned the possibility of funds linked to the former abbot’s personal finances. He expressed confidence in the transparency of the temple’s financial dealings and the vigilance of temple staff in safeguarding valuable assets. While no criminal activity has been detected, it is suggested that the former abbot may have been victimized in separate legal matters.
Professor Thongthong also stated that he has not yet reviewed any clips related to alleged relationships with a laywoman, as his current focus is on financial inspections. Plans are underway to establish a new system for managing financial disbursements within the temple.