Youth Institute Slams Govt Spokesperson Over Fake Tobacco News
The Youth Institute of Thailand accused government spokesman Ekapob Pianpises of spreading false claims about its funding and ties to a tobacco network, demanding his replacement. It stated that its financing is legal under constitutional Section 42 and defended the Thai Health Promotion Foundation’s work, which reduces smoking and tax revenue. The institute’s secretary‑general clarified its legal status as a foundation registered in December 2068 and noted its long history of operation.
The secretary-general of the Youth Institute urged Thais to monitor Ekapob’s conduct, noting his background as a former spokesperson for a tobacco‑support network before becoming a government spokesman. He accused the spokesman of spreading false news that confuses the public, stressed that the institute’s funding is lawful under Section 42 of the Constitution—whether as a juridical person or an individual—and asked the prime minister to replace him with someone knowledgeable and capable. A doctor from Siriraj Hospital also challenged the spokesman on the earmarked tax matter, affirming that the Thai Health Promotion Foundation’s work is proper, contributes to lower smoking rates and consequently lower tax collection, which is a positive outcome. The dispute stems from Ekapob, the Prime Minister’s Office spokesman, who posted on his Facebook page “Doctor Ek Ekkapob Pianpises” claiming the Youth Institute receives funding from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation in an unclear way and lacks legal status, thereby causing public confusion and harming the institute’s operations. On 5 October 2069, Pocharaphat Prajubphan, secretary‑general of the Youth Institute of Thailand, clarified that the institute was registered as a foundation in December 2068, although it had been active continuously for 15 years prior to that. Before becoming a foundation, it had been registered as a cultural network organization under the National Culture Act, but later withdrew because its role did not align with that law. Throughout, the institute has operated under the constitutional freedom to associate (Section 42), which grants individuals and organizations equal status and rights. When asked about the manner of funding from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation before incorporation, he explained that the foundation provides grants to individuals and all sectors for innovative social projects, with disbursements made after expenditure verification by a certified public accountant; funds must be accounted for down to the last baht, with any irregularities subject to correction or recovery, just like government agencies. Now that it is a juridical person, the institute receives funding in the name of the foundation, following the same budget‑consideration and expenditure procedures as for natural persons. He concluded by questioning why Ekapob persistently attacks the Youth Institute, suggesting it might be due to the institute’s notable work in preventing new smokers and opposing the legalization of e‑cigarettes—a stance that has led to the closure of many storefront vape shops in Bangkok after numerous enforcement actions.
