Bangkok: “Wirote” has announced potential legal action against the Minister of Finance and the Director-General of the Revenue Department for delaying the investigation into the Prime Minister’s alleged tax evasion. The issue revolves around the PN ticket examination concerning Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra, with accusations of tax evasion surfacing due to the purchase of shares worth 4,434.5 million baht.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, a Prachachon Party MP, disclosed these developments following a meeting with the House of Representatives’ Committee on Economic Development. The agenda was to review a complaint regarding the investigation into the Prime Minister’s transactions and tax payments. The absence of Mr. Pinsai Suraswadi, the Director-General of the Revenue Department, was noted, as he delegated the task of providing a statement to the Director of the Central Tax Audit Division.
The investigation uncovered that the Tax Decision Committee is not fully constituted, lacking three qualified members. The responsibility to appoint these members falls under Mr. Pichai Chunhavajira, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance. The committee plans to urge Mr. Pichai to expedite the appointment process, but no specific timeline has been established. Delays might be interpreted as neglect of duty.
Mr. Wiroj further commented on the ongoing investigation into promissory notes issued after the purchase of shares by Ms. Paethongtarn’s family and relatives. The Central Tax Audit Office is currently gathering facts, but no completion date has been set due to uncooperative related parties. The process allows for multiple extensions if individuals fail to provide clarifications. Once complete, the investigation will be passed to the Revenue Department’s Committee for further examination.
The State Audit Office, which participated in the Committee’s discussions, confirmed its lack of authority to investigate individuals. Its role is to inspect expenditures and revenue collection. The PN tickets issue, lacking clear regulations, presents a legal grey area. The State Audit Office might propose regulations to ensure fair taxation practices, especially if the Prime Minister benefits from tax planning strategies not extended to other citizens.
Mr. Wiroj asserted the need for swift action by the Economic Development Committee, urging relevant authorities such as Mr. Pichai, Mr. Pinsai, and the Office of the Auditor General to expedite the investigation. Failure to act promptly may constitute dereliction of duty.
Mr. Wiroj warned civil servants of potential repercussions, referencing a past case involving Ms. Benja Luicharoen, who faced legal consequences for her actions at the Revenue Department. Any attempts to delay or protect Ms. Paethongtarn’s investigation could lead to complaints to the NACC, he stated.