Tourism
Phuket MP Denies Allegations of Acting as a Foreign Nominee
Somchat Techathavorncharoen, a People's Party MP for Phuket, is meeting with the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) to refute claims that he acts as a nominee for foreign nationals in real estate.
On August 20, 2026, Somchat Techathavorncharoen, a Member of Parliament for Phuket representing the People's Party, announced his intention to meet with Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI). This move follows public accusations from certain media outlets alleging that he has acted as a nominee to facilitate foreign ownership of Thai real estate.
In a statement posted to his social media, Somchat categorically denied these allegations. He clarified that while he is involved in various business ventures, including real estate investment and leasing, he has never facilitated the transfer of Thai land to foreign entities. He emphasized that no portion of his business dealings involves illegal foreign land ownership and expressed his full willingness to cooperate with the DSI to clear his name.
For residents and expatriates in Phuket, this case highlights ongoing scrutiny regarding land ownership regulations and the legal structures surrounding property investment in Thailand. While Somchat has pledged to cooperate fully with authorities to prove his innocence, the investigation is currently in its preliminary stages. It remains to be confirmed what specific evidence the DSI will review and whether the investigation will lead to further legal proceedings or a formal exoneration of the MP. Somchat has stated he will pursue legal action against those who he believes have overstepped boundaries in their political attacks against him.