Bangkok:The Democrat Party is closely examining a land sale scandal in Bueng Khu Bon, amidst concerns that it may have benefited a former advisor to the Bangkok governor.
According to Thai News Agency, the party's spokesperson criticized the scandal and raised concerns that it may have favored a former advisor to the Bangkok governor. It was discovered that land purchases occurred during the project's review period, which continued until its termination on June 2, 2026.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Pongsakorn Kwanmuang, the Democrat Party spokesperson, highlighted the necessity of transforming Bung Khubon in the Khan Na Yao and Khlong Sam Wa districts into a water retention area to prevent flooding. He emphasized that without such measures, local residents could face severe flooding issues.
The Democrat Party's investigation revealed that the project began in 2017 and was affected by the Land Expropriation Act in 2019, necessitating a restart. Despite nearing the issuance of a royal decree for land expropriation in 2022-2023, the project was subjected to a review in 2023 due to suspicious issues, particularly concerning land ownership transfers. Purchases of 41 rai and 1 ngan of land occurred during this period.
On June 2, 2024, the Drainage Office recommended the project's cancellation, but management could still review it. Additional land transactions took place in July and August 2024, and the project was ultimately canceled in June 2026.
The spokesperson stated that further investigation is needed into these transactions due to connections between the land buyers, sellers, a real estate company, and a former advisor to the Bangkok governor. Despite assurances from relevant agencies, suspicions persist regarding the advisor's involvement in the project review. A thorough investigation is deemed necessary.
The Democrat Party intends to discuss the issue with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to uncover the facts and advocate for water retention areas to mitigate flooding.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Pongsakorn referenced statements by Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, the party leader, on ongoing water depletion in Bangkok and the need for open discussions on the matter.
The Democrat Party also urged Bangkok to learn from past flood incidents to improve water drainage systems and prepare for future rainwater accommodation, stressing the importance of addressing the issue earnestly.
Ms. Vivian Chulamon, the party's deputy spokesperson, reported public demand for Khubon Swamp's development into a water retention basin and a petition to the Prime Minister for its restoration.
Ms. Vivian noted that urban development should consider water retention needs to balance growth with flood prevention.