Satit publicly affirms that Kritichai, Trang MP from the Democrat Party, had no intention to evade 7.4 million baht in taxes, noting that it is an inherited debt issue with a principal of 1.7 million baht but escalating interest charges.
On 10 March 2026, Mr. Satit Wongnongtoey, Deputy Leader of the Democrat Party, spoke regarding the summons issued by the Economic Crime Suppression Division to Mr. Kritichai Pakichan, Trang MP for constituency 3 from the Democrat Party, to acknowledge tax evasion allegations. He confirmed the matter is true but explained it stems from the family’s construction business dating back to 1987.
Mr. Satit stated that the partnership originally belonged to relatives before Kritichai’s father took over until his passing. The business then passed to his wife and children. However, between 2016 and 2019, the business suffered heavy losses, rendering it unable to pay taxes. Additionally, Kritichai’s brother, who previously ran for MP under another party, faced political persecution, plunging the family into overwhelming debt, leading to asset auctions and bankruptcy lawsuits filed by relatives.
“The actual principal tax debt is about 1.7 million baht, but over many years penalties and accrued interest have ballooned to 7.4 million baht. Kritichai never intended to evade payment, but he genuinely lacked funds. Even now, as an MP, he has not received any salary. He is currently coordinating with the Revenue Department and borrowing from relatives to gradually settle the debt,” Mr. Satit said.
The deputy party leader also raised suspicions of a possible political "order," noting irregularities in information being leaked to the media just as Kritichai had become an MP, despite the issue being nearly 10 years old and ongoing negotiations with officials. The timing of the summons and case number emerging as the Democrat Party prepares to assume opposition duties seems too coincidental. He questioned whether this is politically motivated, but the timing is precise.
Mr. Satit assured that before nominating Kritichai as a candidate, the party thoroughly vetted his qualifications and found no record of corruption or questionable business. This case is purely a civil matter arising from business failure and is negotiable. It does not affect his MP status or party work. The Democrat Party’s legal team is fully prepared to assist and has instructed Kritichai to prepare to meet investigators again on 17-18 March.