People’s Party (PP) MPs have questioned influencer Guntouch Pongpaiboonwet’s use of a Ministry of Agriculture helicopter to deliver flood relief.
On Sept 26, 2024, Gun Jompalang boarded a helicopter of the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation to deliver food supplies to flood victims and residents cut off by damaged roads in Wiang Pa Pao district, Chiang Rai.
The controversy arose after Narongdet Urankul, a party-list MP for the PP, posted images of a helicopter on Facebook, explaining the five primary functions of the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department under the ministry.
He said any mission outside the main plan must be authorised by the minister.
He would ask which operations had been commissioned by the minister, and whether private individuals were able to use state-owned choppers.
The post drew attention from fellow People’s Party MP Rukchanok Srinork who asked, “Is this the same helicopter that Guntouch used?” tagging him directly to request clarity.
Mr Guntough said he would explain the matter on Monday.
“I have arranged to respond on a pre-recorded TV programme. This avoids unnecessary back-and-forth disputes and ensures transparency,” he said. “If people want to help monitor, I welcome it. It gives me a chance to demonstrate clearly what I have done and to show that there is nothing to hide.”
Guntouch has come under fire for his campaign to blast creepy sounds through loudspeakers at Cambodians living along the border, as part of a nationalistic campaign which also draws on financial support from his charitable foundation to help locals affected by the border row.
Beyond the helicopter issue, Guntouch continues local development work. “The road project in Ban Nong Ya Kaeo has reached 80% completion,” he said.
“Mutual understanding and lawful procedures are key. I am committed to safe initiatives that benefit the community, and I hope our work can serve the public effectively.”