Lawmaker Seeks Probe Into Royal Rain-Making Aircraft Deal Delays
A lawmaker has asked Parliament's anti-corruption committee to investigate alleged fraud in a 1.1 billion baht aircraft deal for the Royal Rain-Making Ministry, citing over 500 days of delivery delays and improper payment terms that cost th
On July 23, 2024, at Parliament, Thanakun Jitisara, chairman of the Santisuksa Democracy Club, submitted a letter to Dr. Voraung Detkitwikrom, a list-system MP and leader of Thai Loyalty Party, in his capacity as chair of the anti-corruption committee of the House of Representatives, requesting an investigation into alleged fraud in the aircraft procurement for the Royal Rain-Making and Agricultural Aviation Ministry.
Thanakun stated he received information from a concerned whistleblower regarding suspicious contractual terms in the aircraft purchase. The procurement was conducted via electronic bidding on November 8, 2022, with a budget of 1.1 billion baht, with delivery scheduled for April and May 2024 but delayed by more than 500 days.
Thanakun expressed concern that the manufacturer received payment before delivery, contrary to normal contract practice, and that the state failed to collect penalty fees for the late delivery, resulting in loss of government revenue. He requested the committee examine all related documentation, investigate the reasons for delays, production procedures, and whether the exemption from penalties complied with the Public Procurement Act and state asset management regulations.
Dr. Voraung agreed to bring the matter before the committee for further investigation.
