Deputy PM Pushes Temple Accounting System Amid Embezzlement Probe
Deputy PM Prakorn is pushing for new temple accounting systems and stricter financial oversight to combat embezzlement, after investigations into missing funds from central region temples including Chulamani Temple in Samut Songkhram.
Deputy Prime Minister Prakorn Niliprapat gave an interview at Government House on September 15, 2026, ahead of a cabinet meeting regarding investigations into temple fund embezzlement. He reported that he had briefed the National Buddhism Office on September 14 and subsequently reported the matter to the relevant authorities.
When asked about progress on establishing temple accounting systems, Prakorn said efforts were ongoing. Regarding central region temples appearing in recent news reports, he said he had coordinated with the Central Investigation Police on which agencies and temples were involved.
When pressed on whether Chulamani Temple in Samut Songkhram—mentioned in the latest reports—had been investigated, Prakorn confirmed a preliminary check had been conducted but found nothing unusual, pending further information from police. He emphasized that making accusations without sufficient evidence infringes on others' rights and damages Buddhism. He warned against simply forwarding unverified claims through messaging apps and social media.
Prakorn stressed that the core issue stems from human greed and weakness of character. To prevent such problems, he said the government is implementing five systems: temple accounting, monk registries, temple registries, and donation tracking. He acknowledged the problems emerged long ago and he is working to resolve them as quickly as possible, urging people to respect others' rights before leveling accusations.
