Opposition MP Raises Concerns Over Land Acquisition for Luxury Hotel Owned by Shinawatra Family
PUBLISHED : 25 Mar 2025 at 20:01
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra defended her family’s land ownership during a high-profile censure debate, stating that their business operations are fully legal. Concerns were raised regarding the legitimacy of the land where her family operates the luxury hotel, Thames Valley Khao Yai.
In response to the opposition’s inquiries, Ms. Paetongtarn emphasized compliance with all legal provisions, referencing clarifications provided by relevant agencies. She indicated that some of the issues brought up were connected to previous administrations and she was unable to address them directly.
On the debate’s second day, opposition MP Thirajchai Phantumas raised questions about how the Shinawatra family acquired ownership of land within the Lam Takhong self-help settlement, established in 1970 for individuals displaced by the construction of the Lam Takhong dam.
Mr. Thirajchai noted that original community residents were allocated up to 50 rai each, with Nor Khor 3 land use documents to be issued after five years, which could eventually lead to full title deeds upon meeting specific conditions.
He argued that the land was designated as a watershed area, where ownership documents could not legally be issued, and provided a map from the Department of Land to support his claims. He also pointed out that the documents in question were issued in 1996 when a family member held the position of deputy prime minister, with further subdivision occurring in 2012 while another family member served as prime minister.
Mr. Thirajchai stated that the self-help settlement’s status remains intact, thereby prohibiting commercial land use without special authorization.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addresses questions during the censure debate. A vote is scheduled for Wednesday.
