Somchai tees off at Thai PM to settle Alpine Golf land dispute
In a blistering call to action, former senator Somchai Sawangkarn has once more urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to decisively tackle a fiery land dispute around Alpine Golf Course that’s been simmering for far too long. In his third open letter, Somchai implores the Thai premier to show true grit and integrity, insisting that the nation’s wellbeing is at stake.
Somchai didn’t mince words, expressing sheer frustration at the inertia plaguing his previous appeals. His latest letter implores the premier to fast-track the return of a whopping 924-rai plot of land in Pathum Thani, currently the turf of Alpine Golf Course, back to sacred soil at Wat Thamikararam Worawihan.
“The head of the government must perform her duties with honesty for the benefit of the country.”
The backstory? It’s a real page-turner. The land, once owned by the late Neum Chamnanchartsakd, had been generously bequeathed to the temple in her 1971 will. As Wat Thamikararam’s noble patron since its 1922 inception, Neum made sure her last testament left the land squarely for the temple’s use.
But Somchai’s not just waving empty paper. He cited a judgement from the Council of State, which decreed that under the Civil and Commercial Code, the land automatically went to the monastery when Neum passed away.
Mysterious dealings saw this land transferred to private players, Alpine Real Estate and Alpine Golf and Sports Club, where none other than the PM’s mum, Khunying Potjaman Damapong, allegedly holds shares. This transfer? Deemed null and void from the start!
“The premier, as head of the cabinet, must ensure government operations are lawful, transparent, and benefit the public, adhering to principles of good governance,” Somchai emphasised, throwing down the gauntlet.
But wait, there’s more political drama! Sonthiya Sawasdee, a known political firebrand, has dashed off a petition to the Election Commission. He’s demanding they investigate ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra’s alleged role as a behind-the-scenes campaign maestro for the Pheu Thai Party. The twist? Thaksin might have snapped up dual citizenship in Montenegro or elsewhere, a direct clash with Montenegro’s no-go on dual nationality.
“There are concerns about reports Thaksin had bought dual citizenship in Montenegro or another country,” Sonthiya revealed, spotlighting the legal tangles this could unleash.
This unfolding saga only adds to the turbulent whirlpool of legal and political issues dogging the current administration, with public watchdogs and political players ramping up their scrutiny on those holding the reins of power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why is the land dispute involving the Alpine Golf Course significant for Thailand’s governance?
The dispute highlights issues of legal integrity and transparency in government land management, challenging the administration’s commitment to good governance.
How could resolving the land dispute impact Thailand’s political landscape?
Resolving the dispute could set a precedent for government accountability and influence public trust in political leaders and institutions.
What if the prime minister does not act on the land dispute as urged by Somchai?
Inaction could lead to increased public scrutiny and potential political fallout, questioning the administration’s ability to uphold lawful governance.
How does Thaksin Shinawatra’s alleged dual citizenship affect his political involvement in Thailand?
If true, dual citizenship could complicate Thaksin’s legal status and political influence, raising questions about his eligibility and allegiance.
What implications does the land dispute hold for Wat Thamikararam Worawihan’s future?
The outcome could affect the temple’s financial stability and its ability to fulfil its community and religious roles, impacting its long-term prospects.
