Elon is now understanding the risk and fallacy of absolute free speech when some rando stalked his family. But glossed over when others shouted at the same.
I don't hear anybody criticizing the policy. Because it is right. Instead people are attacking Elon's past promise, as it is the only thing they can attack.
So maybe "absolute" free speech is not a very good idea after all. What matters is good moderation.
Elon backtracking from the absolute free speech is fair to be mocked and laughed at as 'I said so'.
Still I don't think changing one's mind is that big of a crime. Especially if there are very good reasons which are explained transparently.