Bangkok: "Wirot" is pressing the Director-General of the Revenue Department for an explanation concerning the Prime Minister's issuance of PN tickets. The question raised is whether the public can adopt this model. Wirot believes that if this practice is permissible, regulations should be established to ensure equality nationwide before a potential verdict of intentional disguise is reached, drawing a parallel to the ethical concerns surrounding "Paethongtarn."
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, an MP and deputy leader of the Prachachon Party, voiced his concerns following a no-confidence debate about the Prime Minister's acquisition of shares from family members through a promissory note valued at 4.4 billion baht. There are questions about whether this method exploits a legal loophole to avoid 218 million baht in taxes. The public awaits a response from Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, the Prime Minister, who admitted to purchasing a PN promissory note and plans to pay taxes next year. There is skepticism about whether payment will occur without disclosure. Additionally, the public seeks clarification from the Director-General of the Revenue Department on whether such practices are typical in the business community. Despite inquiries, no individuals have come forward, fearing repercussions from the Revenue Department. This raises questions about the legality of Paethongtarn's exchange of PN promissory notes and interest for company shares. Mr. P insai Suraswadi, Director-General of the Revenue Department, is urged to clarify whether Ms. Paethongtarn's actions are permissible, as many business owners consider transferring shares to their children following this model. There is an anticipation for regulations to ensure a uniform 5% tax rate nationwide.
Mr. Wirot also mentioned that efforts by the media to seek comments from the Director-General of the Revenue Department have been met with silence.
Furthermore, Mr. Wiroj referenced a Supreme Court ruling stating that using a PN ticket as a disguise for a non-existent purchase is illegal. This situation parallels the ethical scrutiny facing the Prime Minister. The tax intentions for this receive-give scheme are questioned, particularly if they were designed to accommodate Ms. Paethongtarn's actions. The Director-General of the Revenue Department is deemed the most qualified to address these issues. Mr. Wiroj plans to file a formal complaint with the Director-General, emphasizing the potential impact on national tax collection if such practices are normalized. He questions whether leaders should engage in such behavior, advocating for equality in legal enforcement for all citizens.