Bangkok: The Democrat Party launched an initiative titled “Open New Skies, Chase Gray Clouds,” aiming to reveal and address transnational crimes and money laundering activities linked to a former deputy minister. The party is actively gathering information to submit to the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for further scrutiny, emphasizing their commitment to honest politics for the public’s welfare rather than political attacks.
According to Thai News Agency, Police Lieutenant Colonel Pongsakorn Kwanmuang, the party’s spokesperson, announced the campaign’s goal to eliminate gray capital, influential figures, and scammers. This initiative aligns with recent U.S. legislation against scams and a blacklist of 43 individuals. The party is prepared to take immediate action if any of these individuals are linked to Thailand, aiming to avoid international scrutiny and prevent money laundering activities within the country. The spokesperson reiterated the party’s focus on public benefit over political confrontation.
The party’s investigation has uncovered suspicious activities involving individuals like Cambodian businessman Mr. Yim Liek and businessman and lobbyist Mr. Benjamin Mauerberger. The inquiry has also flagged financial institutions such as BIC BANK CAMBODIA and BIC BANK LAOS for questionable conduct. Anomalies include companies with minimal registered capital acquiring large corporations and securing loans exceeding 600 million baht, along with evading laws by using foreign nominees to surpass the 49% shareholding limit set by Thai law. Additionally, ties were found between major energy companies and a former deputy minister. The party committed to using international standards for investigating financial transactions and plans to forward findings to relevant agencies, including AMLO, SEC, and DSI, to trace financial links potentially connected to political figures.
Addressing past inaction, Police Lieutenant Colonel Pongsakorn stated that while the party had been diligent since the Thai Rak Thai government, transitional periods may have delayed initiatives. He emphasized the Democrat Party’s dedication to honest politics and its responsibility to monitor corruption, secret deals, and gray issues, which could escalate into broader international conflicts. The party intends to share more details to highlight connections between public entities and government agencies, underscoring its commitment to national welfare.