Bhumjaithai Deputy Minister Defends Donations, Rebukes Critics
Bhumjaithai Deputy Minister Siripong Angskulkiat defended his party’s donation practices as lawful and condemned critics who seek personal gain by attacking others. He rejected allegations that the donations could lead to the party’s dissolution, insisting any wrongdoing must be proven. In a sharp exchange with former Democrat MP Sirichok Sopa, who likened ministers to ‘geckos getting gold,’ Siripong asked whether a ‘toad’ also desires gold, noting the metal’s high price.
Siripong Angskulkiad, Deputy Transport Minister and deputy leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, told reporters at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center that actions aimed at tearing others down to advance oneself are disgusting. He insisted that contributions to his party are made in accordance with the law, often deducted from legislators’ salaries, and cited the party’s flood‑relief community kitchens as an example of lawful use of donated funds. He noted that while some parties have internal agreements requiring members to donate, others may lack such arrangements or be unaware of them. Responding to criticism that the donations could lead to the party’s dissolution, he said any accusation of wrongdoing must be proven. He also denounced the practice of acting as a self‑appointed judge, calling it vulgar and misleading. Regarding former Democrat MP Sirichok Sopa’s Facebook post likening certain ministers to ‘geckos getting gold,’ Siripong retorted, ‘If that’s what you call a gecko getting gold, then ask yourself whether a toad also wants gold – gold is expensive these days.’
