Bangkok: Teng reveals he has spoken internally with Nont about the criticism of the Buddhist holy sites, but he will have to clarify his intentions. He believes everyone wants transparency in all budget disbursements.
According to Thai News Agency, Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut, a party-list MP and leader of the Prachachon Party, addressed the discussion of Nonthaburi MP Paisal Limcharoen, who discussed the pilgrimage sites and questioned what he had been worshipping at, leading to public criticism. He explained that the party had already reached an understanding with the MP who had spoken, and he subsequently posted an apology, explaining the inappropriateness of his actions.
However, the party insists that they want transparent budget spending and believes that even within the Sangha or the Office of Buddhism, all budget expenditures should be equally transparent. Proposals still require much discussion with all sectors to reach a clearer understanding. For example, the mechanism for the "Monk Enforcer" (monks who oversee discipline) will ensure the Sangha's organization is based on sound principles. Some of these initiatives are still underfunded. It is also proposed that monks' donation accounts should be entered into a system that can be audited by the Revenue Department, and it is believed this should be a discussion agreed upon by all sectors of society.
When asked if the debater had no intention of insulting or disrespecting Buddhists, Mr. Natthaphong believed that the debater's intention was something that the debater would have to clarify for himself; he could not explain it on his behalf.