Bangkok: Electrical contractors involved in the Office of the Auditor General's collapsed building have sought intervention from the Prime Minister after failed negotiations over outstanding subcontracting fees. The contractors are urging accountability from both the former and current Office of the Auditor General.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thitiphong Pothiprom, known as Chang Bird, led a group of over 20 subcontractors in a meeting with representatives from Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited, China Railway Number 10 (Thailand) Company Limited, and 9PK Company Limited. The Rights and Liberties Protection Department acted as the mediator during the negotiations aimed at resolving the unpaid fees.
Chang Bird expressed his hopes for a resolution, stating that he and the subcontractors were ready to negotiate and set clear payment terms. Despite prior discussions with company representatives, there was no significant progress. As a result, Bird plans to escalate the issue to Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra, seeking direct intervention.
The negotiations were further complicated when Italian-Thai Development's legal representative was absent due to filing a bail request for two senior executives. Chang Bird voiced his frustration over the stalled discussions and the lack of accountability from the Office of the Auditor General, emphasizing the dire financial situation faced by contractors due to the building collapse.
Bird highlighted the need for government intervention, noting that some deceased victims' families have yet to receive compensation. He criticized Mr. Kriangsak's previous statements that downplayed the severity of the issue, pointing out that numerous subcontractors remain unpaid and are facing financial hardships.
The contractors are contemplating legal action, with Bird indicating potential criminal charges if the matter remains unresolved. He suggested that any installment payments be limited to two to prevent extended delays. The group of contractors includes specialists in electrical, plumbing, firefighting, and air conditioning systems.