Bangkok:The Democrat Party has raised concerns over a land sale scandal in Bueng Khu Bon, suggesting it may have benefited a former advisor to the Bangkok governor. The scandal involves land acquisitions during a project review period, which ended on June 2, 2026.
According to Thai News Agency, Police Lieutenant Colonel Pongsakorn Kwanmuang, the Democrat Party spokesperson, emphasized the importance of developing the Bueng Khubon area into a water retention or flood control basin to prevent flooding in the surrounding districts of Khan Na Yao and Khlong Sam Wa.
The Democrat Party's investigation revealed that the project began in 2017, with the Land Expropriation Act enacted in 2019 necessitating a restart. The process of issuing a royal decree for land expropriation, typically taking 3-5 years, was nearing completion in 2022-2023. However, a review was ordered in 2023 due to suspicious issues, particularly concerning land ownership transfers. Notably, 41 rai and 1 ngan of land were purchased during this review period.
On June 2, 2024, the Drainage Office recommended the project's cancellation, yet transactions continued, including the purchase of an additional 12 rai of land by July 17, 2024. Despite these developments, the project was only terminated on June 2, 2026.
The Democrat Party has called for further investigation into these transactions, noting connections between the land buyers, sellers, a real estate company, and a former advisor to the Bangkok governor. Although agencies involved claim procedures were followed without prior disclosure to the real estate company, suspicions of involvement in the project review remain.
The party plans to discuss the issue with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to verify facts and advocate for the establishment of flood control reservoirs, emphasizing the need for improved water drainage systems and preventive measures.
Ms. Vivian Chulamon, deputy spokesperson for the Democrat Party, stated that residents wish for the Khubon Swamp to be redeveloped into a water retention basin. The party has received public complaints and submitted a petition to the Prime Minister for the swamp's restoration.
While acknowledging the need for urban development, Ms. Vivian stressed the importance of balancing housing expansion with flood prevention efforts, ensuring both objectives can coexist.