Wat Phra That Phanom Disputes Financial Mismanagement Allegations

The committee of Wat Phra That Phanom Woramahawihan in Nakhon Phanom province has addressed recent public claims regarding the management of temple finances. The controversy began when Jakrapong Pathumkaiya, a former district chief and former temple treasurer, alleged on social media that 114 million baht in donations had been depleted over two years, leaving the temple struggling to cover basic utility costs. In response, the temple's legal representative, Noppotsakorn Trapyasit, refuted these claims, stating that the current balance is 81 million baht. The temple committee held a formal meeting on October 31, 2026, to discuss the matter and address the accusations of mismanagement. During the rebuttal, the temple's legal team questioned the former treasurer regarding the whereabouts of 12 million baht that was previously under his oversight. The temple has announced plans to pursue legal action against individuals who have shared what they describe as false information that damages the reputation of the sacred site. For visitors and residents, this situation highlights an ongoing internal dispute regarding the transparency of temple donations. While the temple maintains that funds are accounted for, the public remains waiting for further clarification on the discrepancy between the figures cited by the former official and the current committee. The situation remains under review as both parties prepare for potential legal proceedings.