Law
New Acting Abbot Appointed at Wat Phutthaisawan Following Scandal
The Ayutthaya Sangha Council has appointed Phra Phiphat Sasanakitwitthan as the acting abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan after the former abbot resigned amid serious criminal allegations.
On September 10, 2026, the Ayutthaya Sangha Council officially appointed Phra Phiphat Sasanakitwitthan as the acting abbot of Wat Phutthaisawan. This administrative change follows the resignation and defrocking of the former abbot, Phra Wachirayan (formerly known as Luang Phor Atichot), on the same day.
According to reports from Khaosod Online, the former abbot was arrested by the Crime Suppression Division following investigations into the alleged embezzlement of over 92 million baht in temple funds, which were reportedly transferred to a close female associate. Furthermore, authorities cited evidence from security camera footage allegedly showing the former abbot engaging in sexual misconduct within his living quarters. Following these revelations, the former abbot chose to leave the monkhood and is currently in police custody to face legal proceedings.
For residents and visitors, Wat Phutthaisawan remains a significant historical site in Ayutthaya. The appointment of an acting abbot is intended to ensure the continued operation of religious services and temple administration during this transition. While the temple remains open, visitors should be aware that the institution is currently undergoing a period of internal restructuring. At this time, the full extent of the financial investigation and the specific details of the legal charges against the former abbot remain subject to ongoing judicial review.
