Watcharapong criticized Ice Rakchanok, suggesting her attempt to halt the TH-AI Passport project may stem from concerns that other private companies could lose out. He urged an investigation into individuals within the Prachachon Party over forex, drug trafficking, and money laundering issues before she posts critiques worrying about Bhumjaithai MPs' performance.
On 23 June 2026, Watcharapong Kuwijitsuwan, Bhumjaithai MP for Saraburi and Chairman of the House Police Committee, gave an interview responding to Ice Rakchanok Srinoak, Bangkok MP from the Prachachon Party, who called on the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society to cancel the 1.621 billion baht TH-AI Passport project. He questioned whether her expressed concerns actually aim to protect private telecom companies that might lose government contracts.
Watcharapong stated that the project’s goal is to allow students and the public to access AI systems free of charge during the first year.
He added that the project also helps reduce expenses for purchasing AI packages from telecom companies and affirmed that the procurement process complies with legal procedures. If Ice Rakchanok has evidence of corruption, she should submit it to the relevant authorities directly rather than criticize publicly to generate daily controversy.
Watcharapong further advised Ice Rakchanok to first investigate allegations involving people in her own party before scrutinizing the work of MPs from other parties. He cited the case of Phawut Pongwittayaphanu, a Prachachon Party list MP, who is under suspicion by the Department of Special Investigation over financial connections to forex brokers. Recently, a promotional video surfaced featuring Phawut representing QRS Global, one of four forex brokers, inviting investments with rewards like mobile phones and trips to France.
He also mentioned Boonrit Raorungroj, a former Prachachon Party candidate for Bangkok’s 33rd district, who was previously implicated in a money laundering case linked to drug trafficking networks. Although prosecutors declined to file charges, Police Chief Kittirat Punpetch issued a dissenting opinion sent to the Attorney General for further consideration, leaving the case unresolved and contradicting the Prachachon Party’s public statements.
"I want to tell MP Ice that she should clarify accusations and issues involving people in her own party to dispel public doubts before mocking and criticizing the work of Bhumjaithai MPs and ministers," Watcharapong concluded.