Bangkok: The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture has instructed an investigation into the facts surrounding the dispute over the "Phra Phutthabat 2522" artwork. Emphasizing transparency, fairness, and protection of government interests, the ministry aims to resolve the ongoing legal matter.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Prasop Riangngern, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, addressed news reports regarding a lawsuit concerning the artwork "Phra Phutthabat 2522," in which the Office of Contemporary Art and Culture (OCAC) and the Ministry of Culture are defendants. He stated that the Ministry is aware of the matter and prioritizes a thorough, transparent, and fair investigation into the facts for all parties involved.
In this case, the Office of the National Culture Commission (ONCC) purchased the artwork "Phra Phutthabat 2522" in 2011, following official government procedures with supporting documents and evidence of the purchase, payment, and property registration process. In 2023, a request was made to investigate the facts surrounding the artwork, leading the ONCC to conduct an investigation. The results found no evidence of any official involvement in the purchase, and these findings have been communicated to all relevant parties.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted the importance of distinguishing between the government procurement process and the dispute over the artwork's ownership, which are separate issues. With the ownership issue now under judicial review, the Ministry of Culture will refrain from making judgments or expressing opinions in advance, instead presenting relevant facts and evidence through the legal process.
The Ministry of Culture prioritizes transparency, accountability, and the protection of government interests. When complaints are received, the Ministry conducts investigations according to procedure. Should legal action arise, the Ministry will fully exercise its rights and duties in the judicial process, without favoritism, and will respect the court's decision, said the Permanent Secretary.
The Ministry has instructed the Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA), together with its legal department, to review the lawsuit's details and gather relevant documents and evidence for legal proceedings. Additionally, the Ministry emphasized the importance of cautious public information dissemination, separating verifiable facts from disputed issues pending in court, and disclosing only legally permissible information to ensure the public receives accurate and comprehensive information.
The Ministry of Culture affirms that it will proceed with this matter based on the principles of law, transparency, fairness, and government interests, while strictly respecting the rights of all parties and the judicial process.