Santi Promphat Addresses Allegations
Denial of Links to SKYY9 Centre Purchase
Santi Promphat, a former deputy public health minister and Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) deputy leader, has denied any involvement in the controversial acquisition of the SKYY9 Centre by Thailand’s Social Security Office (SSO). The purchase, valued at 7 billion baht, has sparked allegations of political interference and inflated pricing. Santi clarified that neither he nor his son, Pattana Promphat, were involved in the deal.
Allegations Against the Labour Ministry
The controversy gained traction after two opposition MPs accused the Labour Ministry, under PPRP leadership at the time, of facilitating the overpriced purchase. The MPs suggested that the SSO inherited significant debt from the transaction and raised concerns about potential political motives.
Pattana Promphat’s Role in SKYY9 Centre
Clarification on Building Ownership
Santi explained that his son’s company, Watergate Pavilion Co., purchased the building in 2017 and later sold it to AGRE 101 Co. for over 2 billion baht. He emphasized that his son had no involvement in AGRE 101’s subsequent sale of the property to the SSO. According to Santi, Pattana initially planned renovations but opted to sell when approached by AGRE 101.
Defense Against Overpricing Claims
Santi defended the valuation of the SKYY9 Centre, stating that AGRE 101 invested heavily in renovations before selling it to the SSO. He argued that the purchase price of 70,000 baht per square meter was competitive for its prime location, compared to similar properties priced at 100,000 baht per square meter.
Political Fallout and Legal Actions
Defamation Lawsuit by Suchart Chomklin
Suchart Chomklin, a former Labour Minister and PPRP member during the transaction period, has filed a defamation lawsuit against two MPs for implicating him in the deal. He is seeking damages of 50 million baht for what he claims are baseless accusations.
Santi’s Denial of Political Deals
Santi dismissed claims of a secret political arrangement influencing the sale. He also denied lobbying for the SSO’s purchase or collaborating with Suchart Chomklin during their time in PPRP.
The History and Transformation of SKYY9 Centre
Evolution of Ownership
The SKYY9 Centre has undergone multiple ownership changes since its inception during Bangkok’s financial crises. Initially acquired by Pattana’s company from Bangkok Commercial Asset Management (BAM), it later became a focal point of controversy due to its high-profile transactions.
Current Status and Market Value
The building remains a sought-after commercial property with competitive rental rates and significant occupancy levels. Despite its turbulent history, it continues to attract tenants due to its strategic location and modern amenities.
This detailed breakdown highlights Santi Promphat’s defense against allegations while providing context on the SKYY9 Centre’s complex history and market significance.
