Bangkok: The assistant abbot of Hua Lamphong Temple has been defrocked following allegations of misappropriating temple funds and involvement with three laywomen. The incident has sparked significant attention and led to the assistant abbot's immediate departure from the temple.
According to Thai News Agency, a document from Phra Thammasuthee, the abbot of Wat Hua Lamphong, was sent to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to clarify the situation. The document, accompanied by a photograph of the assistant abbot's disrobing, aimed to address the allegations circulating in the media.
The document outlines three key points. Firstly, it mentions that the temple has not found any evidence of adulterous behavior by Phrakhru Pariyattiwatthanakit, as such matters are deemed personal. Secondly, regarding the embezzlement of temple funds, the document states that no evidence has been found since Phrakhru Pariyattiwatthanakit's role was limited to coordinating crematorium services. The temple's financial activities, including income and expenditure records, are overseen by a five-member board chaired by the abbot. Lastly, the document confirms that Phrakhru Pariyattiwatthanakit chose to disrobe voluntarily to protect the temple's image and the faith of its followers, with the disrobing set for September 18, 2025.
Former Phrakhru Pariyattiwatthanakit, in a previous phone conversation with the news team, firmly denied the allegations. He clarified that his financial duties involved forwarding donations to relevant parties, with all transactions documented and verifiable. He emphasized that only the abbot has the authority to manage temple accounts and withdraw funds.
Regarding the alleged involvement with three laywomen, former Phrakhru Pariyattiwatthanakit explained that the accusations were unfounded. He described "Ms. Kratae" as a relative who occasionally visited the temple, "Ms. Maew" as a former worker, and "Ms. Da" as a cook, asserting that their interactions were strictly professional and devoid of any romantic implications.