A Bhumjaithai Party MP received a statement from the Village Headmen and Local Leaders Club, accepting an apology from a People's Party MP concerning parliamentary debate remarks that referenced village headmen and local leaders. The club hopes this incident will become an important lesson for these honorable officials in carrying out their duties.
At 09:30 on 6 May 2026, at the press conference room in the Parliament building, a Bhumjaithai Party MP received a statement from Mr. Yongyot Kaokhiew, Chairman of the Village Headmen and Local Leaders Club, Sub-district Doctors, Village Inspectors, and Assistant Village Headmen of Thailand, along with his delegation. The statement addressed the acceptance of an apology and the club's position regarding remarks made in the House of Representatives.
The statement noted that the Village Headmen and Local Leaders Club of Thailand had expressed concern over the parliamentary debate by Mr. Phandil Nuamjeum, a People's Party MP, on 30 April 2026, which contained content that demeaned and damaged the dignity of local administrators nationwide. Subsequently, on 1 May 2026, Mr. Phandil took responsibility by apologizing to village headmen, local leaders, sub-district doctors, village inspectors, and assistant village headmen across the country. Then, on 3 May 2026, the People's Party, as his political party, officially issued an apology for the incident. The club now states its position and conclusions regarding this matter as follows.
1. As local administrators who serve as the community's trusted representatives and adhere to principles of integrity in their work, the Village Headmen and Local Leaders Club gladly accepts the apology. They appreciate the MP's recognition of his mistake and his courage to take responsibility for his words, which sets a positive precedent in a democratic system—both the MP and his party openly admitting the error.
2. The club sincerely hopes this event will be an important lesson for all honorable members of parliament: any oversight or criticism should be based on accurate information and respect for those working at the local level. Using generalized language not only undermines the morale of workers but also unnecessarily creates division within society.
3. Although this incident has hurt the feelings of village headmen, local leaders, sub-district doctors, village inspectors, and assistant village headmen, this crisis serves as motivation to continue their duties in alleviating suffering, promoting well-being, and standing as the frontline in the honest and fair fight against drug problems. This demonstrates the true honor that comes from successful work and the trust of the people. Since village headmen and local leaders work closest with the public, harsh criticism may cause sadness and weaken their spirits, but honest and responsible actions will allow them to stand proudly. The club is ready to collaborate with all sectors, including MPs from every party, to advance policies benefiting the nation.
Mr. Krawee Prisananantakul, Chairman of the Coordination Committee of the House of Representatives (Government Whip), said the incident caused discomfort and distress. Village headmen and local leaders came to express their stance by issuing a statement. They play a crucial role in alleviating hardship and promoting welfare, closely serving as the frontline caretakers of the public. Any actions that hurt these workers understandably cause resentment. Today, they chose to make their position known at this parliament.
It is understood that the concerned party has established a committee to investigate this matter, and the results are yet to be seen. In the government whip meeting today, this issue will be reported to representatives of all coalition parties to inform MPs in the government to exercise greater caution during debates. This incident serves as an important lesson for all members in parliamentary duties—any speech must not harm others. This applies not only to village headmen and local leaders but to all organizations. If debates cause emotional harm or defamatory accusations, it is a lesson all political parties and MPs in parliament must recognize.
Meanwhile, Mr. Phonphi Suwanchavee, Deputy Minister of Interior, said village headmen and local leaders are vital cogs in the Ministry of Interior and the government’s efforts to provide comprehensive care to the people. He expressed discomfort at the derogatory remarks about state officials performing duties for the public made in the House of Representatives. As Deputy Minister and Bhumjaithai Party MP, he cannot accept such behavior. However, an apology has been made and the party has taken measures; the details of these measures remain to be seen. On behalf of the Ministry of Interior, he stands firmly in support of village headmen and local leaders in all respects. The matter submitted today will be considered urgently. The most important thing now is to restore morale, honor, and dignity to village headmen and local leaders nationwide.