Chonburi: Exposed! Social Security Office purchased land for 84.5 million baht, claiming it was for a new building, but it ultimately did not meet specifications and the Terms of Reference (TOR) went missing, raising concerns about a lack of transparency. Mr. Sahasawat Khumkhong, a former MP for Chonburi from the People's Party, posted on Facebook, revealing troubling details about the land acquisition process intended for a new Chonburi Provincial Social Security Office building.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Khumkhong disclosed that the project, numbered 67089559825, was approved in late 2023, prior to the current board's tenure, and began utilizing the budget in 2024. The purchase budget was set at 88,000,000 baht, with the final acquisition costing 84,500,000 baht, only slightly below the median price. The land, comprising five plots with a Treasury appraisal value of around 24 million baht, spans approximately 5 rai and 1 ngan (about 2.4 acres) in a rural residential zone. Despite its purchase, the land remains vacant over a year later, with no progress on constructing a new office.
The purchase has drawn scrutiny due to the land not meeting the required specifications, as it is situated on a side street rather than a main road. Additionally, the missing Terms of Reference (TOR) from the Social Security website adds to the opacity of the transaction. Allegations have surfaced that a complaint regarding this matter has been filed with auditing agencies.
Mr. Khumkhong raised several queries, questioning the rationale behind the specific purchase method, the legality of the transaction, and the absence of construction progress. He urged the Social Security Office to provide transparency and accountability, particularly concerning the missing TOR. The situation has prompted further questions about the suitability and financial prudence of the land purchase, given its secluded location and narrow access road.
The unfolding controversy invites public scrutiny and highlights the need for clear answers from the Social Security Office to ensure the responsible use of funds intended to benefit millions of insured individuals in Chonburi province.