PM's Office Minister Ong-art Klampaiboon on Tuesday attributed his wedding gifts as the reason he found himself Bt12.9 million richer in the period between the 2007 general election and his appointment as Cabinet member in June.
"I am richer by more than Bt10 million because of wedding presents given in cash by guests and relatives who wanted me to have seed money to start a family at the age of 50," he said.
Ong-art said the wedding presents in cash were customary and not unusual because about 5,000 to 6,000 guests attended three ceremonies - engagement, wedding and wedding celebrations.
He also explained that his 15,000 shares worth Bt15 million in Phetprakai Co, a publishing house, were financed from money received at his wedding as well as a joint saving with his wife.
He said he always had personal interest in publishing since he was a reporter. The company has been placed under the care of an asset management fund in order to avoid conflict of interest, he said.
The question about Ong-art's wealth came to light after senator Ruangkrai Leekitwattana petitioned the National Anti Corruption Commission to look into the matter.