Bangkok: Ice Rakchanok has launched a scathing critique of the "TH-AI Passport" public consultation event, labeling it a whitewashing effort. She exposed allegations that the Terms of Reference (TOR) were manipulated to favor cronies and announced her intention to collaborate with the House Committee on Legal Affairs. The plan includes inviting "Chaiyanok" to testify next week. Additionally, she declared her intention to file a complaint with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC).
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Rakchanok Srinok, an MP from the People's Party and Chair of the Committee on Studying Budget Preparation and Monitoring, commented on the TH-AI Passport project. She revealed that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society confirmed that the TOR could not be altered. This raised questions about the necessity of public consultations, which should have preceded the project's launch. She noted that the initial payment had already been made, suggesting the process was more about legitimizing the project than soliciting genuine feedback from experts or the public.
Ms. Rakchanok speculated that influencers and IT professionals might be invited to provide feedback, alongside global companies owning AI models. She highlighted that despite any constructive criticism offered, the Permanent Secretary confirmed that no changes could occur. The participation of global giants, she argued, served to legitimize the project by showcasing their involvement in discussions about AI's future, cost-effectiveness, and technological advancements.
She criticized the TOR's requirement for bidders to have digital screens or billboards in convenience stores nationwide, suspecting it was designed to benefit a select few companies. Ms. Rakchanok compared the TH-AI Passport project to the National Credit Bank project, highlighting similarities in the TOR that suggested rigging. She questioned why such projects required advertising at locations like Suvarnabhumi Airport for a student-focused initiative.
When asked about the next steps, Ms. Rakchanok expressed the need to save the country 1.6 billion baht and questioned the necessity of the project's high cost. She suggested that if Mr. Chaiyanok Chidchob proceeded with the project, he should bear responsibility for the expense. She also raised concerns about the potential overlap of company names involved in similar projects.
In response to a question about a possible connection between her Facebook post recommending Plan B and the project, Ms. Rakchanok emphasized the public's ability to analyze the situation. She acknowledged the possibility of contract amendments or cancellation due to public interest concerns, as suggested by Mr. Pawut Pongwitayaphanu, a list MP from the People's Party.
Ms. Rakchanok stressed the importance of competition in the IT industry, warning against predetermined winners that stifle growth and innovation. She confirmed plans to file a complaint with the NACC once registration begins and outlined a meeting with the Committee on Law, Justice, and Human Rights to address the matter. She invited relevant officials, including Mr. Chaiyanok, to demonstrate sincerity and respect for Parliament and the public.