Bangkok: Dr. Warong Dechgitvigrom, a list MP from the Thai Bhakdi Party, has raised concerns over what he describes as a parliamentary dictatorship after his microphone was switched off during a debate on the TH-AI Passport project. He alleges that the project is designed to favor private companies and plans to submit evidence to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) tomorrow at 10:30 AM.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Warong expressed his dissatisfaction during a press conference, explaining that he was obstructed from fully presenting his arguments on the budget allocation for the TH-AI Passport project. He highlighted sections of the 33-page Terms of Reference (TOR), particularly sections 4 and 8, which he claims mandate specific implementations such as the installation of LED screens in convenience stores. Dr. Warong argued that these requirements contradict statements from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society that the project was optional. He suggested that the TOR might have been crafted to benefit a specific company, Plan B, as only 7-Eleven stores have the screens that meet the TOR specifications. He emphasized that his issue is with government officials potentially rigging the specifications to favor one company, rather than accusing Plan B directly.
The press conference also touched upon previous instances where Dr. Warong's warnings were initially ignored, such as the rice pledging scheme, which eventually led to a court ruling against the Prime Minister involved. Dr. Warong warned that the Minister of Digital Economy and Society could face charges of dereliction of duty and corruption if ignorance of the TOR drafting is claimed. He urged the Prime Minister and members of the ruling party to allow for transparent scrutiny within parliament to combat corruption effectively.
Dr. Warong is determined to bring clarity to the situation and will present his findings to the NACC. He assured that the evidence is based on his team's research and does not include information from Ms. Rakchanok Srinok, a list MP from the People's Party, who has also been investigating the matter.