Bangkok: Ambassador Phisarn Manawapat has categorically stated that he never supported the coup, clarifying his actions during his tenure as Ambassador to the United States. Ambassador Phisarn emphasized that his communication with the Washington Post was part of his official duties aimed at safeguarding the country's credibility.
According to Thai News Agency, the statement came amid criticisms of the People's Party's foreign affairs team. In a message posted on the party's Facebook page, Phisarn addressed allegations about his conduct as an ambassador, specifically concerning a clarification letter sent to the Washington Post. He explained that the letter was not a personal statement but was drafted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and forwarded by the Royal Thai Embassy as a standard procedure to offer an alternative perspective on Thai politics to the media.
Phisarn further clarified that on the day of the coup d'©tat, May 22, 2014, he was serving as the Thai Ambassador to Canada. He was invited by two Canadian television stations for live interviews. He participated in these interviews without waiting for approval from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which was closed due to protests. His intention was to protect Thailand's national image and reassure Canadians about their safety, stating he did not express support for the coup during these engagements.
In addressing personal issues from over 20 years ago, Phisarn acknowledged past mistakes and noted that he had undergone accountability processes with his employing agency. He expressed gratitude for his family's support as he embarks on a political career aimed at enhancing Thailand's foreign affairs with dignity and leveraging his past experiences.