Opposition members vow to delve deeper into the financial dealings of the Social Security Office
PUBLISHED: 19 Mar 2025 at 19:12
Opposition MPs are undeterred by a defamation lawsuit filed by a former labor minister tied to a controversial property acquisition by the Social Security Office (SSO). Rukchanok Srinork and Sahassawat Kumkong, part of the People’s Party, remain committed to safeguarding public interests.
They assert that there is substantial evidence indicating that the Social Security Fund (SSF) has engaged in questionable financial practices.
Suchart Chomklin, a current deputy commerce minister, previously served as labor minister when the SSO purchased the SKYY9 Centre for 6.9 billion baht, a transaction criticized for its questionable valuation. While the SSO cites this purchase as part of an off-market investment strategy, opposition members argue the building was only appraised at 3 billion baht.
Marasri Jairangsee, secretary-general of the SSO, defends the transaction, claiming its market value at 7.3 billion baht using an income-based valuation method, which could rise to 8 billion baht through a cost approach. However, many remain skeptical.
Rukchanok suggests connections between the property purchase and the former labor minister, declining to disclose specific names, although Suchart was affiliated with the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP).
“We are not concerned about the lawsuit,” stated Rukchanok, emphasizing that their actions are centered on the public you serve. “Criticism is offered in the spirit of transparency.”
Sahassawat, asserting his role as an MP, insisted that he has the right to voice truths beyond parliamentary chambers, reinforcing his claim that they possess enough evidence to support their allegations.
On Tuesday, lawyer Phawadi Saengchan initiated a defamation suit against the two MPs, representing Suchart, and is demanding 50 million baht in damages. The court is scheduled to consider the lawsuit on May 26.
Notably, the SSO’s acquisition of the SKYY9 complex for 6.9 billion baht ranks as the second-highest office transaction in two decades, according to market analysis.
