Prime Minister Rejects Opposition’s Claims
Paetongtarn Shinawatra Addresses Censure Debate
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra firmly dismissed allegations of tax evasion during the first day of a censure debate. She asserted that her financial transactions, particularly the use of promissory notes (PNs), were standard business practices that have undergone constant scrutiny.
Controversial Promissory Notes
Opposition Questions Share Transactions
The People’s Party MP, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, alleged that the prime minister had engaged in questionable legal tactics. He claimed that Paetongtarn had disguised share transfers from family members as purchases to avoid paying gift tax on assets received as part of her family’s business-wealth distribution.
Prime Minister’s Defense
Explanation of Financial Practices
Paetongtarn explained that the PN transactions were part of her company’s organizational restructuring. She stated that she issued the PNs because she “was not ready to pay in cash” at the time. The prime minister emphasized that these transactions occurred after 2016, several years before her entry into politics.
Legal Compliance Assurance
Proper Asset Declaration
The prime minister insisted that her assets had been correctly declared to the National Anti-Corruption Commission. She expressed readiness to submit additional information if required by the entity.
Business Norm Argument
PNs as Common Practice
Paetongtarn argued that using promissory notes is a normal practice for business people. She suggested that opposition members could verify this with fellow party members who are involved in business.
Dismissal of Corruption Claims
Rejection of Illicit Activity Allegations
The prime minister firmly dismissed the opposition’s claims that these financial tactics could be used for corruption or drug trade. She described such ideas as “beyond imagination,” further distancing herself from any implications of wrongdoing.
