Nakhon sawan: Nakhon Sawan Temple is ready to explain all issues, preparing financial documents for inspection after the former abbot disrobed. Phra Khru Suthithambandit, assistant abbot, has prepared for the inspection of the temple’s income and expenditure accounts and nearly 20 bank books from 2021 to the present so that the committee from the Office of Buddhism and the district abbot can inspect the assets and financial path of the former abbot today.
According to Thai News Agency, the preparation of these documents is in accordance with the temple’s policy that emphasizes maximum transparency. The financial documents brought for examination are only part of the records because the former abbot had hired an external accounting firm to handle the other documents. The temple has submitted its accounts to the accounting firm since 2011. Additionally, the temple is developing a digital management system via an application to allow people to check the temple’s income and expenses anytime. To ensure transparency, the former abbot emphasized that all donations must go through a bank account, and a QR Code is available for direct transfers. Donors seeking a donation certificate for tax deduction can contact the temple office, where information will be linked to the Revenue Department.
Phra Khru Suthithambandit mentioned he has managed the temple’s accounts for 6-7 months, allowing him to explain the recent financial activities. However, for accounts prior to his tenure, he awaits information from the Audit Office. The former abbot’s quarters are currently closed, with some personal belongings already removed. Phra Khru Suthithambandit stressed that the former abbot should receive justice concerning personal property not related to the temple, and he is prepared to cooperate with inspecting agencies.
Phra Khru Suthithambandit shared the former abbot’s last words before disrobing, where he admitted to a mistake and urged the deputy abbot to continue caring for the temple. This sentiment moved Phra Khru Suthithambandit, who had been the former abbot’s disciple for decades. He acknowledged that the former abbot’s actions were personal but also recognized the good he had done for Buddhism. He expressed confidence in the established investigation system.
Regarding the unfinished construction of the Buddha Park, which has taken over 15 years, Phra Khru Suthithambandit explained that the former abbot initiated the project as an educational institution for monks and novices. A generous donation of over 300 rai of land facilitated the project, but issues with the principal Buddha image delayed progress. The image required costly modifications to achieve consistency in its gold appearance. A pavilion is currently being built to protect the Buddha image, after which it will be gilded.
Phra Khru Suthithambandit concluded by urging society to recognize the former abbot’s positive contributions, beyond the corruption issue.