Sirikan and Pichon revealed that the drug case involving the Prachachon Party candidate for Bangkok's 33rd district ultimately saw no prosecution by the attorney, causing the candidate to lose eligibility. They call for fairness toward Phawut, who has become a suspect in the money laundering case.
On 19 June 2026 at the Prachachon Party headquarters, Ms. Sirikan Tanakul, party list MP and Deputy Leader of the Prachachon Party (Pchn.), commented on the DSI naming Mr. Phawut Pongwitthayaphanu, party list MP of Pchn., in a Forex money laundering case. She said inquiries have been made but they await the DSI's official statement and details to verify the facts. Regarding the Bangkok MP candidate case, although detention was ordered and the candidate was not removed from running in district 33, he lost his candidacy immediately. Ultimately, he was found not guilty and not prosecuted. She urged fairness for those suspected, noting the damage to their reputation and family is considerable, and requested all sides to ensure justice.
Mr. Pichon Chaowaphatanawong, Secretary-General of the Prachachon Party, said Mr. Phawut joined the party since its time as Move Forward Party (MFP), working on online trade issues within the party's committee. All party MPs undergo the same selection process, and he believes Mr. Phawut is prepared to clarify all allegations made against him.
He expressed confidence that the media will understand, as this is not the first time the Prachachon Party has faced such issues. He affirmed the party does not protect wrongdoers but supports transparent and fair procedures. As party secretary-general, he noted that questions can be raised because Mr. Phawut has rigorously scrutinized government projects linked to Minister Chaiyachon Chidchob of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES). During the last MP election, the party faced similar issues when the candidate for Bangkok's 33rd district had his home searched on drug trafficking and money laundering allegations, but the prosecutor ultimately did not press charges.