Bangkok: Napinthon Srisarppang, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, held a press conference to deny corruption accusations made by Member of Parliament Parit Wacharasindhu and Yingcheep Atchanont. At the event, Napinthon challenged both accusers to call him in front of the media to address their allegations. He explained his absence from a parliamentary session as due to attending an official meeting on flood prevention in five central provinces, emphasizing that addressing public concerns was his priority.
According to Thai News Agency, Napinthon clarified his absence from a live interpellation session, where he was accused of corruption by Parit. His name appeared on a list of 229 individuals suspected of collusion in Senate elections. Napinthon stated that he was on official duty in Ratchaburi province, chairing a subcommittee on flood and drought prevention. He noted that he informed the Prime Minister of his official trip on August 20th but only became aware of the interpellation on Tuesday. Napinthon reiterated his dedication to addressing public issues over personal accusations.
Napinthon addressed claims made by Parit during a parliamentary session, which alleged that he met with a Senate candidate, Mr. A, in June 2024 and was involved in activities prohibited by law. Napinthon provided details of meetings held on June 24th and 25th, attended by government officials, where Mr. A sought his assistance in promoting his candidacy. Napinthon refused the request, citing legal restrictions and internal party directives against such involvement.
Napinthon further refuted allegations regarding his presence at the Pullman Hotel during an orientation for newly elected senators in July 2024. He provided evidence of his travel to Germany during that period, submitting leave records and travel documentation to the Election Commission's subcommittee. He questioned the validity of phone signal evidence suggesting his presence at the hotel.
During the press conference, Napinthon also disclosed filing a police report against Yingcheep for defamation, asserting that the comments were biased and not in the public interest. He expressed readiness to address any inquiries and criticized what he termed as defamatory actions intended to stir societal issues.
Napinthon challenged Parit to present comprehensive evidence, accusing him of selectively revealing information to defame him and create political unrest. He urged Parit to act more responsibly as a legislative member and reiterated his commitment to serving the country with integrity.
The press conference concluded with Napinthon reiterating his readiness to answer questions and his commitment to upholding transparency, while emphasizing the need for ethical conduct in addressing the allegations against him.