Bangkok: "Chaiyanok" welcomes the opposition's investigation into the TH-AI Passport project, stating that they can submit it without waiting for the project to begin. He emphasized the need to consider appropriateness and that ministers should share responsibility, as they are at the policy-making level and not involved in procurement, which is the responsibility of civil servants. He affirmed that the project has been thoroughly investigated and deemed cost-effective for both the state and the public.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaiyanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, addressed the opposition's intention to immediately investigate the TH-AI Passport project upon its registration opening, stating that they are free to submit the request without waiting for the project to begin. He said that he had already instructed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society and related agencies to investigate, and they found everything to be in accordance with regulations. Therefore, he is not concerned about this matter.
The opposition noted that in projects of this nature, if errors occur, the responsibility lies with civil servants. However, in this project, should the minister also be held responsible? Mr. Chaiyanok stated that it depends on the proportion of involvement. He explained that he has been involved in policy directives, reviewing and gathering additional feedback, and even conducting public hearings. He has provided information to negotiate with the government to ensure that the government benefits more, the budget is used efficiently, and the project aligns with government policy. Other concerns must be addressed to the relevant agencies involved in the process.
"Personally, I believe the policy is that ministers cannot interfere in the procurement process. And to hold ministers jointly responsible is something that needs to be considered on a case-by-case basis. But I confirm that regardless of the allegations, an investigation has been ordered, and the relevant officials have confirmed them. I have confidence in their confirmation," Mr. Chaiyanok said.
If the opposition wants to proceed with an investigation into this project, are you welcome to do so? Mr. Chaiyanok said that an investigation is necessary, and he actually thanks the opposition. Everything needs to be investigated, but it's impossible for the minister to know every step and every detail of the project. Therefore, he prefers an investigation to ensure that all projects are carried out efficiently.
Mr. Chaiyanok stated that he had been heavily criticized on this issue, and when asked if it was being viewed as a political matter, he said that initially he thought it was solely a political issue. The questions started with whether the budget was used efficiently and whether the product was of good quality. Now, it's clear that the product is of good quality and the budget has been used efficiently. Ultimately, the focus shifted to the Terms of Reference (TOR). When it was determined that the regulations were being followed, the discussion shifted to the private sector. Therefore, he said they need to monitor the situation but reiterated that the policy implemented prioritizes the benefit of the people. Currently, negotiations are underway regarding pricing to ensure actual costs are paid. If 5 million registrations are received but some people don't utilize the service, it would be unnecessary to spend 1.6 billion baht. He believes everything is proceeding in a way that benefits both the government and th e public, and he affirms this stance.
The question is whether the minister should shift or pass the burden to civil servants if they have to take responsibility. Mr. Chaiyanok stated that it's not about shifting the responsibility; we have different responsibilities. For the minister, it's about setting policies and monitoring whether projects are being implemented effectively and in accordance with government policy. He emphasized that since the minister shouldn't be involved in the procurement process, we shouldn't get involved either.