Report Thai MP Slams VIP Invite for US Reporter Critical of Thailand

[webfact]

Govt spokesman Jirayu Huangsap (left). MP Kannavee Suebsang (right). Inset: US reporter Michael B. Alfaro. Picture courtesy of Amarin TV

 

The government's generous offer of an all-expense-paid weeklong stay in the Kingdom for a US reporter critical of Thailand has infuriated a Thai MP.

 

The media frenzy began after Amarin TV revealed that Michael B. Alfaro, who criticised Thailand in a now-deleted news stream, was invited by Jirayu Huangsap, a spokesman for the Prime Minister’s Office.

 

Kannavee Suebsang, the FAIR Party’s sole MP, questioned the necessity and importance of inviting Alfaro, especially when Thai journalists are reportedly already responding to his remarks.

 

"This is beyond embarrassing and shows a complete lack of international political savvy," Suebsang declared, sharply criticising the government’s decision to offer such a lavish invitation.

 

Adding to the drama, it’s been confirmed that Alfaro isn’t linked to any high-profile news organisation nor the White House press corps.

 

Jirayu explained why Alfaro needed to see the border situation firsthand following his recent trip to Cambodia, which was allegedly sponsored by a public relations firm with ties to the Cambodian government. However, there are still unanswered questions regarding the reasons behind this cross-border media drama.

 

Alfaro announced his impending trip to Thailand on Facebook, saying his goal is to learn the truth about the conflict along the Thai-Cambodian border, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

He vowed to report back with his findings, even promising a briefing for US president Donald Trump. “I’ll return with my findings and brief President Trump,” Alfaro’s post read, as he sought out a point of contact to facilitate his Thai adventure.

 

The public and media outlets remain sceptical about Alfaro's ability to impact international relations, given the ambiguous nature of his reporting credentials.

 

Jirayu, however, stands by the invitation, viewing Alfaro’s presence as an opportunity to set the record straight.

 

This unfolding storyline raises questions about the intricacies of media influence and its potential impact on diplomatic relations.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-08-18

 

[thesetat]

So, if one wants to, simply make a podcast being critical of Thailand and boom, you get offered a free all expense paid luxury trip to Thailand so you will see the good side and change your story to make Thailand glow to the world. 

Hmp, I think I need to tell my kids in the US to try this.