Parliamentary Scrutiny Intensifies Over Digital AI Initiative
A prominent Member of Parliament has raised serious concerns regarding the government’s handling of a significant artificial intelligence project, questioning the ministry’s decision to finalize the terms of reference (TOR) for the initiative. The MP criticized a recent public consultation, arguing it occurred too late in the process.
Concerns Over Transparency and Fair Competition
During a parliamentary session, MP Rukchanok Srinork highlighted that officials had stated the project’s TOR could no longer be amended. Ms. Srinork expressed skepticism about a public consultation forum held yesterday, suggesting it was intended to legitimize the project rather than genuinely solicit input from IT professionals, experts, and the public.
“What is about to happen does not appear to be a genuine forum for hearing views from IT professionals, experts and the public, but rather a whitewashing exercise designed to legitimise the project,” she stated.
Ms. Srinork further alleged that while officials emphasized the potential benefits of artificial intelligence, they seemed to sidestep crucial concerns about procurement requirements. She claimed these requirements could inadvertently restrict competition among potential bidders.
Bidding Requirements Under Fire
According to Ms. Srinork, the TOR for the project’s public relations component stipulated that bidders must possess nationwide digital billboard networks and advertising displays in convenience stores. She asserted that these specific conditions would likely limit the pool of eligible companies to only a select few.
Official Inquiry Scheduled
Ms. Srinork announced that both the House budget panel and the House Committee on Legal Affairs, Justice and Human Rights are scheduled to convene on June 18. The upcoming meeting will reportedly summon Mr. Chaichanok, the ministry’s permanent secretary, alongside members of the TOR drafting panel. Officials from the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the State Audit Office are also expected to be present.
The MP added that if the registration process for the TH-AI Passport initiative commences, opposition MPs intend to file a formal complaint with the NACC.
