BANGKOK, Thailand – Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding MOU 44, with some public groups calling for its cancellation or revision on December 13. Thaksin emphasized that Koh Kood is undoubtedly part of Thailand and strongly denied claims from Cambodian media that the island is not Thai territory. He criticized the spread of fake news, suggesting that artificial intelligence (AI) might be used to distort information, but stressed that the truth could be verified by looking at factual evidence.
Thaksin also noted that he would be briefing members of the Pheu Thai Party later in the day to explain how MOU 44 came about during his tenure as prime minister. He assured the public that the agreement was never intended to cede Koh Kood to Cambodia. The MOU, according to Thaksin, is merely a framework for future discussions and does not represent a final decision.
Addressing the confusion around the issue, Thaksin urged the government to provide clearer explanations to the public. He acknowledged the loud opposition but emphasized that the government must listen to the majority of people.
