Thanks to FACT I have provided scans of the cover and endpapers of the “yellow” version of р╕Бр╕Зр╕Ир╕▒р╕Бр╕гр╕Ыр╕╡р╕ир╕▓р╕И. See the update at the end of the post.
“What can be done? …Are there more sustained and meaningful options? What are your suggested responses to the growing ambition of lèse majesté accusers?”
Be a good academic and stay focused. Why conflate everything together into one indiscernible mass? Pro-Thaksin, anti-monarchy, anti-lese majeste, pro-electoral democracy (strictly interpreted), anti-PAD, pro-PPP, pro-“poor oppressed down-trodden rural proletariat,.”….etc, the world is not as black and white as this blog makes it out to be, less partisan, be less selective as far as news items selected, be less polarized in coverage, this would be a peacemaking conflict resolving step…BTW are you sure Nicolaides is still in jail, someone sent me a threatening email with his name on it, of course on the internet, anyone can do anything they want I guess….the one thing he probably hasn’t done yet, humbly admit he was wrong in what he did.
“A Whitehall source confirmed yesterday that the Home Office had revoked the couple’s visas under rules banning entry to those convicted of offences that can carry a jail sentence under British law…”
in
“Home Office bars Thaksin Shinawatra from returning to Britain”
However, I agree with you in that the real reasons are not clear cut as the UK has let many other shady foriegn figures reside in her shores. I would say had PMThaksin just stayed on in peaceful exile, investing his money into the British economy and really kept away from Thai politics – or just carry on in a more covert manner, he might be tolerated. A live phone-in to 80,000-100,000 die-hard fans was probably not a smart move in that context…
Thanks Rank#4. No mistakes there – at least where your comment is concerned. The army, at least under GenAnupong, has decided not to be used as a tool by either TRT/PPP to crack down on PAD, nor for PAD to stage a coup against the government – nor to stage a coup for itself. I suggest you then trace the Thai army’s track record in politics back to 1932 and you’ll be surprised at the improvements.
Thanks HCLau#5. I’m afraid polishing PMThakin’s “shiniest side” while keeping ignoring his “darkest side” is not a path for peace and reconciliation. His shinest side certainly makes a case for him to be considered “the best PM that Thailand ever had” but his darkest side may cancel much of that out. Let me know what you think when you factored both in objectively and carefully.
And let me be clear here, I have stated that I generally agree with AjarnThongchai’s sentiments – what I did in post#1 was situate that in the current context and speculate what could happen. That is all. If you agree with my speculations, please just say so and give us good reasons why. At the end of the day, they are merely speculations with better chances of being wrong than right as Thai politics is like a game of chess played by a dozen people not coordinating their moves, many playing for both Reds and Yellows (just read what GenPallop Pinmanee has been up to lately in today’s Thairath!). You never really know what is happening and why…
Look, just with the PAD alone, AjarnThongchai identified four groups. It is quite likely that without PMThaksin in the equation, the four groups will find very little to agree on.
With the PPP coalition, it is a bit more straightforward – just follow the money trail (only that the money trail is no longer straightforward as there are lots of convoluted off-shore detours) to the biggest punter…
Yes, there is a very good chance that Ajarn Thongchai will stop by and read these comments, as he does from time-to-time. Such is the beauty of the medium. If there is anything particularly noteworthy we sometimes draw it to the direct attention of writers whose work is featured on New Mandala. They are usually very heartened by comments such as yours.
PAD is a personification of the dying throes of a feudal mindset. Koon Sindh is obviously an intellectual, given the many comments that he wrote in NM. It is also obvious that Sindh is part of the feudal elite, whether he admits it or not. perhaps he would wake up one fine morning, have a flash of insight and realise that the feudal mindset is not sustainable in the mordern world as people becomes more educated and empowered.
I am not talking communist here, but a society built on democracy, compassion and respect for the basic needs of your fellow human being.
Whatever Thaksin may have been and is, he still was the best PM that Thailand ever had. The economy was booming and life in the countryside improved significantly. The idea my friends is to increase the size of the cake.
The essay Thongchai Winichakul, is without a doubt, THE best crafted piece of balanced reporting I have yet to see on this very controversial subject.
His delicately written view on Lèse majesté is a classic and could well get through “neutral” Thai “censors” unedited if he can find the right forum. Although I doubt it would be a widely read “mainstream” publication, as these appear to be controlled by factions.
I also respect his courage writing this way, Thailand is deeply divided and dangerously close to using violence to force one view over another..
I would like to ask the “editor” of THIS forum…. “Does he get to read our comments?”
Brian
PS “RANK” Your quote: “to say that society ought to be governed by the opinion of the wisest and best, though true, is useless. Whose opinion is to decide who are the wisest and best?” is a keeper..
Dear Khine, what I still remember is that Broadway was built in the jungle south of Indaw by the second Chindit expedition as a landing-base to attack the huge Japanese base then at Indaw on the Mandalay-Myitkyina rail line.
It must be a wonderful experience to rediscover it again for a former Chindit after more than 60 years. Congratulations. I don’t think there are too many Chindits still alive and well now!
I grew up in the cadets and most of my highschool classmates ended up in DSA and almost all of them were killed during seventies and eighties, except a couple who are now generals in SPDC. One is in the airforce.
My then close friend, Khin Maung Oo, was a captain in the airforce and he was killed when his T33 crashed into another T33 flew by his flight major over Rangoon while they were filming each other for the 1983 or 84 armed-forces day. He was a shan and he was only 23 then. As a airforce child, may be you knew or heard of him.
We would probably never know exactly why Thaksin’s visa was revoked unless the UK government decides to explain its action. Even that, I doubt that a real explanation would be given.
It is definitely a setback for Thaksin as the revocation affects his credibility in the international community and added to the confidence of the PAD supporters of his wrongdoing. But I can see that he could gain somewhat from the increasing difficulties on the part of the Thai authorities to seek extradition, as it is not clear where he now resides.
I see this turn of event as more than just a reflection of how ‘mature democracies’ would not tolerate Thaksin’s illegal actions, whatever they may be. National interest, e.g. relieving itself from extradition pressure and keeping a distance from Thaksin’s political struggle, could be one of the factors at play. Thaksin should know better that he cannot expect the UK government to stand up for him.
Brifely on Sidh’s earlier post (#11). I don’t have all the info on how the quorum matter got to the Constitutional Court. My hypothetical response to you would be that it is even more important now for the Court to keep its consistency. Plus, it is probably difficult to argue against a clear-cut issue like quorum requirement.
What an absurd comment by Sidh S. He’s made mistake on many points, especially, the one concerning the role of Gen. Anuphong.
Those who are of the right mind could easily understand why Army Comander refused to carry out his duty. It is pretty clear that “Someone” behind the PAD, who are wielding so much influence upon the military, warn him not to inflict any harm to “their people”.
His duty is obviously not to be a buffer between two hostile groups of people. The intervention from the so-called “Invisible Hands”, actually they are rather the “Untouchable” due to the protection provided by the draconian law of the land, is so real and obvious that one cannot dismiss.
It is immaterial whether or not the PPP is disbanded. The policy responding to the needs of the people is the key to win their trust.
Take this line to your bed time then:
“to say that society ought to be governed by the opinion of the wisest and best, though true, is useless. Whose opinion is to decide who are the wisest and best?”
Thank you for this very thoughtful and intelligent analysis of the present situation in Thailand. If only such intelligence and thoughtfulness were readily available to the consumers of Thai newspapers and TV.
As it is ASTV and the Sondhi media machine, Thailand’s version of the FOX News network in the U.S., feeds an endless stream of brainwash fodder to its minority audience of hungry fools and tools, leading Thailand (which could and should be a great country given its location, resources and the skills and talents of its hard-working people) towards a cliff of backwardness and regression.
Hopefully, it will all be over soon, with Sondhi on trial for his many corrupt transactions and anti-state activities, the PAD a distant memory celebrated only on T-shirts and the Thai people back on the road to being an important and integral part of the modern world.
Why,oh why ,do academics believe that the only way anyone can gain “asia -literacy” -whatever that means- is by enrolling in one of their courses.Do any of these academic Asian scholars have any idea what is being taught on Asia outside academia?
In Darwin ,the Casuarina Secondary College use to run a Thai language course for beginners,and if my memory serves me right, there was also an intermediate Thai language course.
Again in Darwin, many years ago I enrolled in a Mandarin course conducted by the Chung Wah Society but I withdrew because the other mature age Australian student were far,far,more proficient in the language than poor old beginner me.
And what about all those Australian who have taught English as a second language in Asia? Have they nothing from their experiences?
And all those Australians who travel to South-east Asia ? And all those Australians married to Asians?
Come on academics ,broaden you ideas on what is meant by “education”.
as expected the PAD is losing favour with Thai people
crazy publicity stunts by Sondhi to try to keep his protest business
rolling along have shown his true motivations
everyone realises that the police are being scapegoated for the PAD
insane and illegal actions in armed and violent occupation of government house and the adventure to blockade parliament house
the PAD vigilantes are creating terror in the community, shootings and carrying grenades and pingpong bombs around the city… so the Democrats try to give cover to their mates
the Democrats should be working as a serious opposition assisting the government handle the global financial crisis, the important ceremonies, flood relief, Asean, assistance for farmers, health, education, all vital to the health and wealth of Thai people
the PAD leaders should be in gaol and bona fide protesters work out how to protest peacefully and constructively for a better Thailand
Dear sir
we are manfacturer of table salt
and we offer best quality of table salt from egypt
we have our own factory that enable us to meet all buyer enquiries
also we have our own rice mills
we export to more than 20 countries
While I agree with AjarnThongchai’s general sentiments and the dangers of undemocratic PAD, the article almost assume a post-Thaksin scenario. In my view, this is jumping the gun and the direct and covert battles – in the parliament, on the streets, in the global/local media, in the courts etc. – between PMThaksin and PAD will continue for many years. This is a fight ‘to the death’ between two undemocratic monsters. The country could be burnt – but neither side seem to care.
AjarnThongchai seem to also assume a PAD victory. That is not guaranteed in this long-term conflict. 73 billion baht and exile in Bahamas is too high a price for PMThaksin (who is clearly attached to his country). Exploiting PMThaksin’s electoral popularity to win elections and dominate/benefit from government resource allocation is too high a price for PPP and what ever it evolves into. And that may be a reason why any signs of dialogue (and there were a few) between the government and PAD is quickly quashed – such as by the comedic-tragic events of Oct 7th (intentional incompetence on the part of the police?). Many – most Thais desire peace, however, many stand to lose from it and that clearly includes PMThaksin and groups in the PAD.
The likelihood (and I could be very wrong of course) is that this will be a stalemate – and in the scenario that it gets bloody, we will see negotiation sooner rather than later. And the likelihood of violence is also high and not because PAD is armed to the teeth – but because, I would argue, violence, the threat of violence, and the culture of the ‘Third Hand’ is inherent in Thai street and/or electoral politics (and I am sure AjarnThongchai is fully aware of this). PAD, as with UDD – and the security forces’ approach to crowd control – is a symptom rather than an exception.
And post-Oct 7, we will not see security forces cracking down on the PAD in the near future as the 2006 coup made the chance of another coup less likely (but still possible). The army’s defined role, at least under GenAnupong, is to keep the Reds and Yellows apart – and GenAnupong has stragically minimize the chances of the ‘Third Hand’ by having people close to him control Bangkok’s battalions. His ‘neutrality’ is highly unpopular in both sides of the divide but very sensible in this context. This will prolong the stalemate until a critical mass from each side see sense (and the pending recession may be the catylist) and agree to meet and talk. I think this could be possible in the next reincarnation of the TRT/PPP government, when there’s no militant PMSamak with high political capital or PMSomchai from The Family to directly protect PMThaksin’s interests…
The blog has interesting observations such as “Lesson of (EXILED) Thai leaders’ code of conduct”
or for those with sympathy for PMThaksin ‘comment 221’ from ‘anthonyford’:
“… The British, like the Kiwis and Aussies have a bureaucratic heartless process that is carried out by dry legal technicians and if the case does not stand up legally it will be thrown out as in this case…”
Couldn’t agree more. It seems apparent that “mature democracies” don’t tolerate PMThaksin’s “honest mistakes”. PMThaksin may have made one too many technically illegal moves – not to mention morally/ethically questionable legal actions many suspect/accuse him of…
Where will he be based next? Rumours has it that it’ll be China, Hong Kong, Bahamas (unlikely in my view – it would mean that he has chosen to really retire from politics, which his 5 year ban required anyway). I think Cambodia is also likely – but could lead to all-out war between the two countries and not border skirmishes.
Why not Australia? It would be great to witness the Thai government being run from here from a posh Sydney or Melbourne suburb with direct flight connection to Bangkok. NM fans would definitely love it…
les majeste use to be a law to maintain the sanctity of the Monarch in Thailand. It is now simply a political tool to be applied by the powers in Thailand ( I am refering to the behind the scene powers)
The current PAD case of blocking the Royal route and telling the King to use another route is a clear insult to the Royals and yet no action is being taken. How more of an insult then to tell someone to “bugger off” take another route.
Lese Majeste is not the main issue, the main issue is malicious defamation.
I have not read Harry’s writings nor wish to, if they are malicious against another person, royal or not, then they are wrong.
I heard that Harry used malicious writings in order to popularize himself and this is definitely wrong.
If Harry had done this in an Arab country then his fingers would probably have been cut off already.
It is strange why mountains are made out of pathetic little troublemakers in Thailand – is there some agenda here? It appears to me like a gang of left wing writers that are receiving some benefits to write their drivel.
Laws are necessary to control these troublemakers, be they mad, malicious or hired for political reasons.
Facebook 
Twitter 
Soundcloud 
Youtube 
Rss
The Devil’s Discus – in Thai
Thanks to FACT I have provided scans of the cover and endpapers of the “yellow” version of р╕Бр╕Зр╕Ир╕▒р╕Бр╕гр╕Ыр╕╡р╕ир╕▓р╕И. See the update at the end of the post.
Lèse majesté: what is to be done?
“What can be done? …Are there more sustained and meaningful options? What are your suggested responses to the growing ambition of lèse majesté accusers?”
Be a good academic and stay focused. Why conflate everything together into one indiscernible mass? Pro-Thaksin, anti-monarchy, anti-lese majeste, pro-electoral democracy (strictly interpreted), anti-PAD, pro-PPP, pro-“poor oppressed down-trodden rural proletariat,.”….etc, the world is not as black and white as this blog makes it out to be, less partisan, be less selective as far as news items selected, be less polarized in coverage, this would be a peacemaking conflict resolving step…BTW are you sure Nicolaides is still in jail, someone sent me a threatening email with his name on it, of course on the internet, anyone can do anything they want I guess….the one thing he probably hasn’t done yet, humbly admit he was wrong in what he did.
“Speech by a special guest”
Amata, here’s something from The Times:
“A Whitehall source confirmed yesterday that the Home Office had revoked the couple’s visas under rules banning entry to those convicted of offences that can carry a jail sentence under British law…”
in
“Home Office bars Thaksin Shinawatra from returning to Britain”
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/article5117925.ece
However, I agree with you in that the real reasons are not clear cut as the UK has let many other shady foriegn figures reside in her shores. I would say had PMThaksin just stayed on in peaceful exile, investing his money into the British economy and really kept away from Thai politics – or just carry on in a more covert manner, he might be tolerated. A live phone-in to 80,000-100,000 die-hard fans was probably not a smart move in that context…
Anti-democracy in Thailand
Thanks Rank#4. No mistakes there – at least where your comment is concerned. The army, at least under GenAnupong, has decided not to be used as a tool by either TRT/PPP to crack down on PAD, nor for PAD to stage a coup against the government – nor to stage a coup for itself. I suggest you then trace the Thai army’s track record in politics back to 1932 and you’ll be surprised at the improvements.
Thanks HCLau#5. I’m afraid polishing PMThakin’s “shiniest side” while keeping ignoring his “darkest side” is not a path for peace and reconciliation. His shinest side certainly makes a case for him to be considered “the best PM that Thailand ever had” but his darkest side may cancel much of that out. Let me know what you think when you factored both in objectively and carefully.
And let me be clear here, I have stated that I generally agree with AjarnThongchai’s sentiments – what I did in post#1 was situate that in the current context and speculate what could happen. That is all. If you agree with my speculations, please just say so and give us good reasons why. At the end of the day, they are merely speculations with better chances of being wrong than right as Thai politics is like a game of chess played by a dozen people not coordinating their moves, many playing for both Reds and Yellows (just read what GenPallop Pinmanee has been up to lately in today’s Thairath!). You never really know what is happening and why…
Look, just with the PAD alone, AjarnThongchai identified four groups. It is quite likely that without PMThaksin in the equation, the four groups will find very little to agree on.
With the PPP coalition, it is a bit more straightforward – just follow the money trail (only that the money trail is no longer straightforward as there are lots of convoluted off-shore detours) to the biggest punter…
Anti-democracy in Thailand
Dear Brian,
Yes, there is a very good chance that Ajarn Thongchai will stop by and read these comments, as he does from time-to-time. Such is the beauty of the medium. If there is anything particularly noteworthy we sometimes draw it to the direct attention of writers whose work is featured on New Mandala. They are usually very heartened by comments such as yours.
Best wishes to all,
Nicholas
Anti-democracy in Thailand
PAD is a personification of the dying throes of a feudal mindset. Koon Sindh is obviously an intellectual, given the many comments that he wrote in NM. It is also obvious that Sindh is part of the feudal elite, whether he admits it or not. perhaps he would wake up one fine morning, have a flash of insight and realise that the feudal mindset is not sustainable in the mordern world as people becomes more educated and empowered.
I am not talking communist here, but a society built on democracy, compassion and respect for the basic needs of your fellow human being.
Whatever Thaksin may have been and is, he still was the best PM that Thailand ever had. The economy was booming and life in the countryside improved significantly. The idea my friends is to increase the size of the cake.
Anti-democracy in Thailand
Dear Sir,
The essay Thongchai Winichakul, is without a doubt, THE best crafted piece of balanced reporting I have yet to see on this very controversial subject.
His delicately written view on Lèse majesté is a classic and could well get through “neutral” Thai “censors” unedited if he can find the right forum. Although I doubt it would be a widely read “mainstream” publication, as these appear to be controlled by factions.
I also respect his courage writing this way, Thailand is deeply divided and dangerously close to using violence to force one view over another..
I would like to ask the “editor” of THIS forum…. “Does he get to read our comments?”
Brian
PS “RANK” Your quote: “to say that society ought to be governed by the opinion of the wisest and best, though true, is useless. Whose opinion is to decide who are the wisest and best?” is a keeper..
The Stilwell Road
Dear Khine, what I still remember is that Broadway was built in the jungle south of Indaw by the second Chindit expedition as a landing-base to attack the huge Japanese base then at Indaw on the Mandalay-Myitkyina rail line.
It must be a wonderful experience to rediscover it again for a former Chindit after more than 60 years. Congratulations. I don’t think there are too many Chindits still alive and well now!
I grew up in the cadets and most of my highschool classmates ended up in DSA and almost all of them were killed during seventies and eighties, except a couple who are now generals in SPDC. One is in the airforce.
My then close friend, Khin Maung Oo, was a captain in the airforce and he was killed when his T33 crashed into another T33 flew by his flight major over Rangoon while they were filming each other for the 1983 or 84 armed-forces day. He was a shan and he was only 23 then. As a airforce child, may be you knew or heard of him.
“Speech by a special guest”
We would probably never know exactly why Thaksin’s visa was revoked unless the UK government decides to explain its action. Even that, I doubt that a real explanation would be given.
It is definitely a setback for Thaksin as the revocation affects his credibility in the international community and added to the confidence of the PAD supporters of his wrongdoing. But I can see that he could gain somewhat from the increasing difficulties on the part of the Thai authorities to seek extradition, as it is not clear where he now resides.
I see this turn of event as more than just a reflection of how ‘mature democracies’ would not tolerate Thaksin’s illegal actions, whatever they may be. National interest, e.g. relieving itself from extradition pressure and keeping a distance from Thaksin’s political struggle, could be one of the factors at play. Thaksin should know better that he cannot expect the UK government to stand up for him.
Brifely on Sidh’s earlier post (#11). I don’t have all the info on how the quorum matter got to the Constitutional Court. My hypothetical response to you would be that it is even more important now for the Court to keep its consistency. Plus, it is probably difficult to argue against a clear-cut issue like quorum requirement.
Anti-democracy in Thailand
What an absurd comment by Sidh S. He’s made mistake on many points, especially, the one concerning the role of Gen. Anuphong.
Those who are of the right mind could easily understand why Army Comander refused to carry out his duty. It is pretty clear that “Someone” behind the PAD, who are wielding so much influence upon the military, warn him not to inflict any harm to “their people”.
His duty is obviously not to be a buffer between two hostile groups of people. The intervention from the so-called “Invisible Hands”, actually they are rather the “Untouchable” due to the protection provided by the draconian law of the land, is so real and obvious that one cannot dismiss.
It is immaterial whether or not the PPP is disbanded. The policy responding to the needs of the people is the key to win their trust.
Take this line to your bed time then:
“to say that society ought to be governed by the opinion of the wisest and best, though true, is useless. Whose opinion is to decide who are the wisest and best?”
Anti-democracy in Thailand
Thank you for this very thoughtful and intelligent analysis of the present situation in Thailand. If only such intelligence and thoughtfulness were readily available to the consumers of Thai newspapers and TV.
As it is ASTV and the Sondhi media machine, Thailand’s version of the FOX News network in the U.S., feeds an endless stream of brainwash fodder to its minority audience of hungry fools and tools, leading Thailand (which could and should be a great country given its location, resources and the skills and talents of its hard-working people) towards a cliff of backwardness and regression.
Hopefully, it will all be over soon, with Sondhi on trial for his many corrupt transactions and anti-state activities, the PAD a distant memory celebrated only on T-shirts and the Thai people back on the road to being an important and integral part of the modern world.
Same old story…Asian Studies on the decline
Why,oh why ,do academics believe that the only way anyone can gain “asia -literacy” -whatever that means- is by enrolling in one of their courses.Do any of these academic Asian scholars have any idea what is being taught on Asia outside academia?
In Darwin ,the Casuarina Secondary College use to run a Thai language course for beginners,and if my memory serves me right, there was also an intermediate Thai language course.
Again in Darwin, many years ago I enrolled in a Mandarin course conducted by the Chung Wah Society but I withdrew because the other mature age Australian student were far,far,more proficient in the language than poor old beginner me.
And what about all those Australian who have taught English as a second language in Asia? Have they nothing from their experiences?
And all those Australians who travel to South-east Asia ? And all those Australians married to Asians?
Come on academics ,broaden you ideas on what is meant by “education”.
Anti-democracy in Thailand
as expected the PAD is losing favour with Thai people
crazy publicity stunts by Sondhi to try to keep his protest business
rolling along have shown his true motivations
everyone realises that the police are being scapegoated for the PAD
insane and illegal actions in armed and violent occupation of government house and the adventure to blockade parliament house
the PAD vigilantes are creating terror in the community, shootings and carrying grenades and pingpong bombs around the city… so the Democrats try to give cover to their mates
the Democrats should be working as a serious opposition assisting the government handle the global financial crisis, the important ceremonies, flood relief, Asean, assistance for farmers, health, education, all vital to the health and wealth of Thai people
the PAD leaders should be in gaol and bona fide protesters work out how to protest peacefully and constructively for a better Thailand
The price of salt in Myanmar
Dear sir
we are manfacturer of table salt
and we offer best quality of table salt from egypt
we have our own factory that enable us to meet all buyer enquiries
also we have our own rice mills
we export to more than 20 countries
best regard
Mohammed Assasa
Anti-democracy in Thailand
While I agree with AjarnThongchai’s general sentiments and the dangers of undemocratic PAD, the article almost assume a post-Thaksin scenario. In my view, this is jumping the gun and the direct and covert battles – in the parliament, on the streets, in the global/local media, in the courts etc. – between PMThaksin and PAD will continue for many years. This is a fight ‘to the death’ between two undemocratic monsters. The country could be burnt – but neither side seem to care.
AjarnThongchai seem to also assume a PAD victory. That is not guaranteed in this long-term conflict. 73 billion baht and exile in Bahamas is too high a price for PMThaksin (who is clearly attached to his country). Exploiting PMThaksin’s electoral popularity to win elections and dominate/benefit from government resource allocation is too high a price for PPP and what ever it evolves into. And that may be a reason why any signs of dialogue (and there were a few) between the government and PAD is quickly quashed – such as by the comedic-tragic events of Oct 7th (intentional incompetence on the part of the police?). Many – most Thais desire peace, however, many stand to lose from it and that clearly includes PMThaksin and groups in the PAD.
The likelihood (and I could be very wrong of course) is that this will be a stalemate – and in the scenario that it gets bloody, we will see negotiation sooner rather than later. And the likelihood of violence is also high and not because PAD is armed to the teeth – but because, I would argue, violence, the threat of violence, and the culture of the ‘Third Hand’ is inherent in Thai street and/or electoral politics (and I am sure AjarnThongchai is fully aware of this). PAD, as with UDD – and the security forces’ approach to crowd control – is a symptom rather than an exception.
And post-Oct 7, we will not see security forces cracking down on the PAD in the near future as the 2006 coup made the chance of another coup less likely (but still possible). The army’s defined role, at least under GenAnupong, is to keep the Reds and Yellows apart – and GenAnupong has stragically minimize the chances of the ‘Third Hand’ by having people close to him control Bangkok’s battalions. His ‘neutrality’ is highly unpopular in both sides of the divide but very sensible in this context. This will prolong the stalemate until a critical mass from each side see sense (and the pending recession may be the catylist) and agree to meet and talk. I think this could be possible in the next reincarnation of the TRT/PPP government, when there’s no militant PMSamak with high political capital or PMSomchai from The Family to directly protect PMThaksin’s interests…
“Speech by a special guest”
PMThaksin’s and wife’s UK visa cancellation totally missed by NM!? I expected a full blog on the subject and heated and passionate debate by now.
Anyway, it seems that this is a hot topic in many Thai blogs and the Nation is one of them:
“Painting Himself Into the Corner”
in
http://blog.nationmultimedia.com/thanong/2008/11/08/entry-1
The blog has interesting observations such as “Lesson of (EXILED) Thai leaders’ code of conduct”
or for those with sympathy for PMThaksin ‘comment 221’ from ‘anthonyford’:
“… The British, like the Kiwis and Aussies have a bureaucratic heartless process that is carried out by dry legal technicians and if the case does not stand up legally it will be thrown out as in this case…”
Couldn’t agree more. It seems apparent that “mature democracies” don’t tolerate PMThaksin’s “honest mistakes”. PMThaksin may have made one too many technically illegal moves – not to mention morally/ethically questionable legal actions many suspect/accuse him of…
Where will he be based next? Rumours has it that it’ll be China, Hong Kong, Bahamas (unlikely in my view – it would mean that he has chosen to really retire from politics, which his 5 year ban required anyway). I think Cambodia is also likely – but could lead to all-out war between the two countries and not border skirmishes.
Why not Australia? It would be great to witness the Thai government being run from here from a posh Sydney or Melbourne suburb with direct flight connection to Bangkok. NM fans would definitely love it…
Lèse majesté and Harry Nicolaides
les majeste use to be a law to maintain the sanctity of the Monarch in Thailand. It is now simply a political tool to be applied by the powers in Thailand ( I am refering to the behind the scene powers)
The current PAD case of blocking the Royal route and telling the King to use another route is a clear insult to the Royals and yet no action is being taken. How more of an insult then to tell someone to “bugger off” take another route.
Regional reaction to Obama
Frank refers to Crispin’s piece being “seriously flawed.” I am wondering if he can say a bit more about the problems he sees with the article.
Murk
I understand that the Sulak case is about something he said at KKU almost a year ago. Any reports of what he is alleged to have said?
Lèse majesté and Harry Nicolaides
Lese Majeste is not the main issue, the main issue is malicious defamation.
I have not read Harry’s writings nor wish to, if they are malicious against another person, royal or not, then they are wrong.
I heard that Harry used malicious writings in order to popularize himself and this is definitely wrong.
If Harry had done this in an Arab country then his fingers would probably have been cut off already.
It is strange why mountains are made out of pathetic little troublemakers in Thailand – is there some agenda here? It appears to me like a gang of left wing writers that are receiving some benefits to write their drivel.
Laws are necessary to control these troublemakers, be they mad, malicious or hired for political reasons.