Phawut apologized for criticizing AI Pass, expressed thanks for the reminders that helped him regain focus, and accepted all reprimands, affirming he will work harder and more carefully to prove himself through his work.
On 17 July 2026 GMT+7, Phawut Pongwittayapanu, a list MP from the People’s Party, posted on Facebook sincerely apologizing for his previous post. He said that by focusing too much on criticizing only the AI Pass service system, it caused a misunderstanding that he would overlook the issue of oversight, while in fact, budget transparency is the top priority for both the People’s Party and himself.
“I confirm that the process of auditing this project continues rigorously and thoroughly at every stage. Thank you for all the reminders that helped me regain focus. From now on, I will work harder and more carefully to prove myself through my work.” Phawut stated.
According to reporters, Phawut’s clarification came after he expressed his views on AI Pass, saying it was not a political dispute to win but that the government initiated the project, the opposition scrutinized and suggested improvements, and then the government adjusted accordingly to maximize public benefit. He added that they acknowledged the improvements based on facts, while continuing to monitor and inspect areas still at risk.
This prompted Rakchanok Srinok, a list MP from the People’s Party and chairperson of the parliamentary committee overseeing budget management, to express her dissatisfaction. She had previously declared that the party’s ultimate goal is to have the government cancel the AI Pass project and responded sharply to Phawut on social media, which eventually led Phawut to post his apology and express thanks for the reminders that helped him regain focus.