Asia Sentinel

support democracy
written by nba jersey , January 13, 2010

Those who support democracy and social justice in Thailand must condemn the PAD and those advocating a dictatorship.

support democracy
written by nba jersey , January 13, 2010

Those who support democracy and social justice in Thailand must condemn the PAD and those advocating a dictatorship.

links of london bracelet
written by links of london bracelet , December 22, 2009

Where is the king in all this? Throughout the three year political crisis, the king has never attempted to diffuse the problem. Many Thais believe he supports the PAD, but it is more likely that the monarch has always been too weak to intervene in any crisis.

...
written by electricpower , December 12, 2009

Throughout the three year political crisis, the king has never attempted to diffuse the problem.

share
written by jacli , December 06, 2009

thanks share so good information.

mobile phone
written by China Mobile Phone , August 28, 2009

Thanks for sharing this information

the game is power
written by r4i-itouch2-dstti , May 22, 2009

Be gracious to the winner and start preparing to do a better a job in the next contest.
It is obvious which choice Thailand is making, but it need not be so.
The elected government is continuing to adapt and stepping up to the challenge.

...
written by laptop battery , January 04, 2009

What a wonderful country

To: Bad Dog
written by Rodent , December 08, 2008

First, before you run around accusing people for being immature, you, yourself have to learn to grow up and listen to other people opinion and used your logic to construct a counter argument before swearing that everyone that oppose you is working for Thaksin.

From your previous posts you dont seems to believe in "Democracy" I presume? because that is essentially what one-man one-vote is all about, everyone is treat equally with equally say, no matter of what education or class.

If the PAD got their way that means that one day if I want the government to do something for me I just gather 10,000 to 20,000 people and closing down the air-port so the government compli to my demand?? then from now on Thailand will be rules bu bunch of thugs and gangsters. Do you really want Thailand to be like that Bad Dog??

To Mr. Athita again
written by Bad Dog , December 03, 2008

Your example and the abusive terms you use show how rabidly 'in denial' many extremists are - from both sides. I am sure I would get another knee-jerk reaction from Thaksin apologists/revisionists like you if I called you all 'buffalo' so please try to show a little more maturity and self-control if you want people to pay attention to you.

Anyway, it is common knowledge that Thaksin methodically set about muzzling the local media (except for the eternally captive electronic media) and Chermsak was one of his higher profile scalps. I note further that this didn't disqualify Chirmsak from subsequently working with the UNnited Nations - an organization that Thaksin has publically denigrated for questioning his wholesale human rights abuses.

As to who steps forward and who steps back, you seem to be implying that any step back from 'one man one vote' is a win for the PAD at the expense of Thaksin. I maintain that my suggested compromise it is realistically the best compromise available.

Finally, it is very disappointing that no one else seems to have presented any constructive suggestions as to how a compromise solution might be agreed to, indicating just how far in denial and how entrenched in their opinions people here have become. Furthermore, while your ugly derisive tone does you no favours - it certainly makes you sound a hell of a lot like Thaksin.

Bad Dog Out.

beyond compromise
written by John Lim , December 01, 2008

I think the situation is now beyond compromise. I think we need an International army to come into Thailand to solve the problem. Hence the Thai army do not believe in democracy. The army do not belong to Thais people, they only serve the palace and the PAD. Although, ordinary Thais are the one who feed. Their wages are from the taxes that we paid. But they never do anything for the Thai people except buy lousy weapons. All Thais know that these top bass only know how to play golf and karaoke. The U.N. must send their troops into Thailand to terminate these terrorists. They should also come in and arrange a new and fair election. They should also combat and rewrite a new Constitution according to International standard. Any laws that are unfair and prejudice should be taken off and rewrite them into a modern and fair law for everyone. Since all men are equal, no one should be more special than others. The law shall apply for everyone no matter how big or small. Anyone could be criticized or trial if they do something wrong.

Only with this way will Thailand survive. If we drag on with this situation, Thailand will becomes ashes. We are now sitting on the mouth of a burning valcano. This valcano can burst anytime. All Thais will be affected. I pledge to the U.N. to look into this country and save the country from chaos. The longer it drags on, the worse it will be.

...
written by arun , December 01, 2008

Someone has to tell Queen Sirikit to back off from supporting Sonthi before the whole House of Chakri collapses!

To Mr. Bad Dog Again
written by Athita , December 01, 2008

haha

You know who wrote the book "Roo tun thaksin"? It's Mr. Jermsak Pinthong, one of Thaksin's foe.

Let me tell you a bit about Jermsak. He used to own a TV program in Channel 11 which operated by the Public Relations Department during the Chuan's Admin. (Democrat Party). After Thaksin was elected, this program was kicked off the monitor because the contract between Jermsak's company and PRD expired. At that time, Thaksin bought iTV which Jermsak wanted to put his program on air. But, iTV denied. So he's mad and blamed that Thaksin was behind this.

That became tactical attack from Jermsak against Thaksin ever since.

And...

YOu said "one step back, two step forward"

haha..i'm sorry for laughing.

You know what, many "idiots" think this is the best way. But let me ask you, "who step back and who step forward?

Thaksin listened to someone's advice so he stepped by by dissolving the parliment in Feb. '06. But his enemies never stop. They want to destroy him like killing a rat.

And they burnt the house to kill one rat like the PAD doing today.!!!

Groundhog Day
written by Bad Dog , December 01, 2008

Here we go again - urged by each side to choose between the "lesser of two evils". Among other things, both sides claim to be defenders of democracy, but both seem to define it differently:

For Thaksin supporters, an election win sufficient to enable it to form a coalition government is where democracy begins and ends and the record is quite clear on this;
For PAD supporters, well they are united in comdemnation of the above and hence "anti-Thaksin".

If we accept the reality of Thai politics is far more complex than simplistic Western notions about full democracy or nothing, and begin to appreciate that full democracy in the West was often the end-product of a series of small steps prior to the eventual acievement of full adult franchise/one man one vote, we may see the folly of expecting Thailand to make that one giant leap successfully without the established and proven institutions to do so. For example, the U.S. electoral college system and the British House of Lords have not prevented their respective countries from being bulwarks of western liberal democracy.

So when no one even responds to my compromise suggestion to have a fully elected lower house and a semi-elected upper house, you can see the blinkered, self-interested, bloody-mindedness exhibited by certain 'leaders' from all quarters that prevents a constructive suggestion even being considered. One thing is certain though, without a compromise, the country will slide further down the road to self-destruction - whiuch is something the king has been expicitly warning us about since 1998 - well before Thaksin ever became PM.

So, with apologies to Orwell's 'Animal Farm', instead of mindless chants of either "Four legs good, two legs bad" or "Four legs good, two legs better " - why don't we try something that might actually work:

"One step back, two steps forward!"

Bad Dog.

PAD = Pricks Against Democracy
written by joe , December 01, 2008

Wake up Thais!

You've been brainwahsed since birth through manipulated curriuclums, sakdina traditions, and nonstop propaganda.

Your only way out of this mess is to analyse and learn to think for yourselves. Stop eating what they're feeding you.

good post. very intresting.
written by john- laptop , December 01, 2008

good post. very intresting.

SILENT COUP NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
written by di , December 01, 2008

The top military commanders are now openly telling the government to dissolve parliament. This piece of news is being splashed on the Thai newspapers and TV stations on a daily basis. Military intervention against this democratic government is out in the open. The Thai prime miinister according to a local daily is sleeping in undisclosed locations for fear of the military.

Personally, I believe the US and EU must come out to support Thai democracy in the open now. Military coup is taking on a different veil but still nevertheless is a coup - a silent coup wherein the democratic government is systematically toppled by the elites.

If they succeed this time it will become a precedent and Thailand will plunge into the dark ages.

International communites, USA, EU ---- Thailand needs you help NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT A GREAT GREAT POST!!!
written by LongTimeVisitor , December 01, 2008

I TRULY/DEEPLY APPRECIATE JI'S MESSAGE. THIS IS JUST ABOUT FACT AND WHAT IS HAPPENING. THAILAND SERIOUSLY/DESPERATELY NEEDS DEMOCRACY.

SINCERELY,

...
written by k2h , November 30, 2008

I have always admired ajarn Ji for his straightfoward and bold criticism. Thailand does need academics like you not hypocrites! I am afraid that it is still a long way to democracy, unfortunately, as we all know that the "semi- god" and family claim or consider that Thailand is theirs; they simply can't let go "rigth to decide' to "demos" which means people ( in Greek). I strongly condemn whosoever wants to lead Thailand to another dark age!

Thai need to learn something about the values of life, about dignity, selfesteem and selfrespect, all elementary lessons our own children learned when they were 4 years old...
written by Chanan , November 30, 2008

If a Thai goes to the tempel he does'nt pay. If a foreigner goes to the same tempel he must pay 40 bath. If a Thai goes with a tuktuk he pays 10 bath. If a foreigner makes the same trip with the same tuktuk he is asked to pay 250 bath. If a Thai goes to the nature reserve he pays 20 bath. If a foreigner goes trough the same nature reserve he must pay 400 bath. This are just the most banal examples of how fundamentally sick Thailand is. They will have no more good luck here, defenitively. They don't want to know, they don't want to learn. Soon they wil start killing eachother. In many cultures the learning moment start after heavy suffereng like a war, a disaster. That time might has come now. Thai need to learn something about the values of life, about dignity, selfesteem and selfrespect, respect for animals and respect for nature. All elementary lessons our own children learned when they were 4 years old...

...
written by toni , November 30, 2008

Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok has now been closed by a group of terrorists from the anti-government People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), which is demanding that the elected government resign. This is despite the fact that the government has the backing of the majority of the Thai population. This backing has been proven by repeated elections. The PAD wants a dictatorship to replace democracy.

International Airports are highly sensitive security areas. Thai airports are controlled by the Thai military. It is obvious that the Thai military, who staged an illegal coup in 2006, have quietly supported PAD’s actions. Back in early October, the PAD thugs surrounded parliament to prevent the Prime Minister from making a policy speech. When the police used tear gas to try to disperse the PAD, the police were roundly condemned by the Thai media and most middle-class intellectuals. It is no secret that the PAD terrorists are armed with guns, bombs, knives and wooden batons. They constantly break the law with impunity. Earlier Tuesday PAD thugs were filmed by Thai TV PBS, shooting at taxi drivers who were trying to defend their pro-democracy community radio station. Yesterday the PAD kicked and punched a senior policeman. The police are powerless to act.

The PAD is a royalist fascist mob which has powerful backing. Apart from the army, they are supported by the Queen, the so-called Democrat Party, the courts, the mainstream media and most university academics. What these people have in common is a total contempt for the Thai electorate who are poor. They are angry that the Thai people voted for a government that gave the poor universal health care and other benefits. They want to turn the clock back to a dictatorship which they call "the New Order".

It is clear that the PAD, the Military, the Democrat Party and the conservative establishment would rather see total chaos in Thailand than allow democracy to function. Instead of addressing the airport-seizure stand off, they hope the Thai kangaroo courts will move fast to dissolve the ruling party on November 2, and that an authoritarian "national government" can be set up.

Without support for Queen Sirikit, the PAD leaders would have been arrested, and the PAD movement would have been crushed long time ago. Why odes the Queen get involved? Because se is afraid of Taksin's taking over the cpountry.

Prostitution and Serfdom
written by Sirikit , November 30, 2008

Thailand is a rich and fertile country and yet most of the rural people are poor. Bangkok is the Prostitution capital in the world that as many as one in fifty Thais may be engaged in some sorts of Sex trade. The so-called easy money is creamed by the Royalist retainers and elites. Of course, large section of the population also benefitted from this Sex trade. After many year of benign rule and having engineered many coups behind the scene, the Royal PAD is intented on denying votes to the rural folks and perpetuating the rustic population to a life of serfdom and poverty.

...
written by Hydra , November 30, 2008

Until Thailand is free of the Monarchy there can be no democracy. Corruption has been built around this institution and cannot be changed until there is democracy. Even then, it will take time and a great change in the attitudes of the people at all levels. When one section of society loses the easy money that it has been accustomed to from corruption, and sees it passed to some other parties, naturally they will shout and scream and do all they can to reverse the situation. The corrupt activities of a few usually receive ‘protection’ from others who are in higher positions, and who receive ‘benefits’ for that protection. In Thailand, corruption is so endemic and pandemic that it has spread everywhere. The whole taxation system and its enforcement have to be revised, the Courts which are under direct influence of the monarchy from the day the judges receive their royal appointment, need to be changed. The police force must be better paid and be purged of the hierarchy which perpetuates a totally corrupt system. The military must be made responsible to the nation, not the king. It is the taxpayers who pay the military, not the Palace. In short, the rule of Law, not the king should prevail. Of course he will not willingly allow the Chakri dynasty to lose its power. The cost of the monarchy to the Thai people, directly and indirectly must be astronomical. The wealth of the royal family should be confiscated and used for the benefit of the people who have created it. Much of the wealth of the monarchy is well hidden and the true value of this would probably astonish everyone. From where this has come from is open to speculation. Whatever good people claim the king has done is nothing to what he has taken from the Thai people, and all that has been amassed by those hiding behind him. I recall the movie ‘Papillon’ where it was stated that the greatest crime was a wasted life. A much greater crime is that of wasting lives. This is what the generations of Thai kings have done – all to enrich themselves and keep their power. The Thais have been denied freedom, opportunity and the right to speak out and determine their own future. They have been brainwashed into believing in a king whose family and ancestors have done nothing but take from the people, returning just a little to make them look good. People should not forget how their ancestors were treated, tortured and put to death by this family’s forebears. They are ruled by fear, the most negative and damaging of emotions. The French and the Russians had their solutions. The Thai people need a leader to help them get rid of these parasites. They had one in Thaksin, and the royals knew it. That is why they have done everything in their power to drive him out, alienate him and steal his wealth. I just hope that he doesn’t give up the fight and that the Thai people continue to support him in any way that they can. Thailand is a very rich country, but who controls the wealth and how?
The PAD’s actions are despicable, and have undoubtedly received support from the monarchy via other parties so that they can always keep the ‘clean’ and righteous image that their propaganda machine churns out. Many Thai people know, but are afraid to speak out. Unless they do so now, and take charge of their own futures, they will be thrown back into the past, being slaves to the king and his extended family.
All we are now waiting for is the king to come out of his shell and pretend to be the knight in shining armour who will rescue the Thai people by ordering HIS army to sort out the problem. What a good man! - Create the problem, then be seen as the person who solved it. How can people be so naive?
They have been brainwashed, but now they must think for themselves. Thaksin must also declare what the real problems are – face the truth and fight for it.

Is this a news article?
written by Reader , November 30, 2008

Asia Sentinel is taking a very strong position if this is news article.

Financing PAD
written by Sirikit , November 30, 2008

The Crown Properties is valued more than 30 billion USD. No wonder the People Against Democracy movement can finance its supporters and freeloaders to protest for more than 6 months with no end in sight.

PAD is not about democracy
written by Bill , November 29, 2008

People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) is not about democracy. In fact, they are similar to the Founding Father of America who created the Electoral collage so that the uneducated poor did not elect a government that was not first approved by the people they deemed worthy of making such decisions.
Thaskin did more for Thailand’s poor then any other PM, but he also ordered the killings of many with his “war on drugs” and his hard handed polices in the Muslim south. The poorer Thai’s were not blind to the corruption of the Thaskin government, there just saw this as normal Thai politics, and for the first time the government was helping them.

Rebellion in Bangkok
written by Ed123 , November 29, 2008

Seemed that the Thai Monarchy is just a joke.

"respect for Thai King" is an overused excuse to stage a rebellion.

Don't tell me that the Thai King endorses such a stupid irresponsible action.

THAILAND SHOULD ADOPT WHAT SINGAPORE GOVERNMENT WOULD DO IN SUCH A SITUATION.

As for me, i will do this;
1) Crack down on the protesters. Order temporary large prisons to be built.
2) Confiscate all instruments of rebellion including all the vehicles. If they want file claims for their vehicles, use the process of law to tire them out.
3) Assess of the damages inflicted. As the rebellion is not constitutional, the leaders and participants are liable to the damages to affected businesses and the country.
4) Arrest the leaders (once proof is available) that they encouraged underaged children, women to take up weapons to fight the government. Charge them under crime to humanities (after conflict with injury happens)
5) close down the media of Limthongkul as it is used as a propaganda of rebellion.
6) all other powers of law granted by the constitution.

PPP could not give it or it would have betrayed the trust given by the voters that put them into power. PPP may not be a puppet for Thaksin, they are elected because the voters trust that they have the same ideology as Thai Rak Thai. So if PPP plays it right, they will come into power again, and the protest will start again.

Kingdom that gone MAD
written by Krathingdaeng , November 29, 2008

They should have change the name of PAD to MAD (Monarch Alliance for Dictatorshop)

To Mr. Bad Dog
written by Athita , November 29, 2008

You don't have the right to vote? Well, I have right to vote and I voted for whoever I thought he/she would keep promises. How? I have my own judgment, and so do you.

One more thing I want to say:

What's matter with Ph.D. or uneducated man? It doesn't matter of what your title is, the point is: do you (whoever hold Ph.D) have "sanity" or "common judgment like other human beings and willing to accept the difference point of view?

You know, Prof.Dr. Surapol Nitikripot, the Head of Thamasart University, he got degree from Law School. But he didn't know what to do with Article 7. I met the farmers who protested him in front of his university who claimed that Article 7 is not democratic.

Many people said at that time..."oh..poor guys, you haven't finished elementary school, how dare you teach this Ph.D. in Law?"

Till the King spoke out...Article 7 is not democratic!!

And then, no one accepted the mistake.

So who is the real democracy? haha....to me, a farmer is smarter than those Ph.D. guys. Well, not in academic aspect of course, but in the way of "how to live in real world, not in the dream world.

Vote buying? It's just a word for those losers who never got elected and accepted by majority.

...
written by min , November 29, 2008

whoever is financing these mobs are very powerful figures in thailand. it won't be surprising if the royal family, the military and the privy council are involved. the PM is effectively a lame duck. He is giving commands from chaing mai and the situation in bangkok sounds more like a civil war. no one is enforcing law and order!
holding the whole country hostage is certainly wrong and illegal. thousands are now stranded in thailand and PAD remain righteous. I say, they are selfish. Just as thaksin and his gang are selfish too. it is eventually a power struggle that appears going nowhere.

...
written by A. Gerard , November 29, 2008

Regardless of the eventual outcome of the airport siege, it will be instructive to see how the Sondhi-Chamlong gang will be dealt with in the legal system. I'm certainly no fan of the highly litigious US system but in this case a series of civil actions aimed at crippling, bankrupting and humiliating this despicable duo would be the kind option.
A further observation about the free ride the PAD has until recently received from its many enablers in the Thai press. Has anyone read a word about exactly who (naming names) is financing this mob? These people too should be sued within an inch of their lives for the economic damage that has been caused to Thailand.

...
written by Bad Dog , November 29, 2008

This is in response to Athita:

What's so funny? You evidently share the same talent as Tom Harkens in blithely ignoring 'inconvenient truths'. As far as this forum is concerned I am content to let the facts speak for themselves and let the voters decide. However, while I fully expect some 'facts' to contradict others, for the record, I am not for one side or the other and I have the luxury of not having to vote because I am not a voter, but if I was I would probably vote 'informal'.

Furthermore, I am not disputing the assertion by contributor "YeahYeah" re the last three election results, but the point I was trying to make earlier was that these results are built around core support for unsustainable vote-buying policies AKA populist policies rather than any vision for where the country needs to go and how to get there. Setting aside the educational credentials he alledgedly earned honestly, when Thaksin reads prepared speeches (probably drafted by someone else) he doesn't speak like someone with a modern education and he doesn't act like someone with a modern education and certainly not like anyone who earned a real Ph.D.
Conclusion: he doesn't really have one, hence he doesn't 'get' the whole 'education thing' let alone real democracy.

As a columnist recently wrote (from memory) in the Bangkok Post, it is well understood that the main problem with 'democracy' in Thailand is the patronage system on which Thai society rests, and that the way to do away with patronage is to have a modern education system. Why? Because it fosters critical thinking instead of political apathy and produces both knowledge workers and responsible government. Sadly, as far as I can recall, none of the recent party leaders in Thai politics has ever demonstrated a clear commitment to this process which is the underlying reason why this country is going nowhere fast and is in danger of becoming a truly sad/funny little country which could have been...but never was.

Bad Dog in Da House.

That's why we no longer respect them
written by YeahYeah , November 28, 2008

Let's not forget the real story here !!!
3 times in a row, the MAJORITY of Thai people have voted for Thaksin / his party / beliefs etc.


and


quote: 'For claiming to be a Buddhist country'

Anamism is the belief that everything, even inanimate objects such as rocks, trees, plants, etc. are alive and have a soul or spirit. Spiritism is the name given to the belief that the living can and do communicate with the spirits of the dead or others spirits in the spirit realm. People would spend a year’s wages to buy a fetish to bury in their gardens to keep the evil spirits away. The word fetish refers to idols and amulets made by hand that are supposed to possess magic power. There was in that culture a belief in spirits and fear of spirits!

A thick, illustrated book about Buddhism.
In the index are named India, China, Japan, Tibet, Sri-Lanka, North America, Europe.
But no word about 'Thai Buddhism' They just (...) hijacked the name of Buddha to give themselves an imago !
Buddhism in Thailand is just a 'front' to cover their real beliefs etc.
That's why we no longer respect them, or even bother to speak their language anymore.

What a Karma may such a culture receive ? Scary !

Kuhn Hyena
written by hyena , November 28, 2008

For claiming to be a Buddhist country, Thailand is one of the most dishonest, scam ridden countries on the planet where rule of law never has existed. Pay off the police, and the corruption is from the restaurant, taxi driver all the way to the top. Thailand is the only country where dishonesty is ingrained in children as being OK as long as you save face...by the way, "saving face" and self serving ego's are also non-Buddhist principles. The nation of double standards, lies, deceit all the while claiming they're a religious, Buddhist country (the #1 prostitution country on the planet...oh, but prostitution is illegal in Thailand)! ...Gee, I forgot...they do anything for money, steal the government, pull over cars or bring you to the police station for a bribe, turn off the taxi meter, turn a blind eye to hundreds of tourists murdered...what an amazing country! I want to live there right now!

No wonder Thai news isn't even a blip on the news on my country...no one cares because Thailand is one of the lowest on the respect scale...copyrights? What are those? Let's copy everything, steal everything, sell our family members and lie about it.

Sad because it could be such a successful country but even Thais are pilfering Thailand...anything for personal gain, ethics and morals out the door (oops, I forgot, they teach the kids to lie, cheat and steal when they're young).

My 4 trips there this year and months staying revealed Thailand is also one of the most prejudice countries on the planet, as well. My wife has endured some NASTY treatment from ethnic Thais only because of where she's born and her lack of money to become educated....if they had it their way, she wouldn't be able to vote solely because of her lack of resources when she was young. What nice Buddhists they truly are! By the way, there's no such thing as a pure blood Thai any more than there is a pure blooded UK, American, German, etc. Go far enough back and there was mixing...if there wasn't, we'd all look the same as the first humans on the planet.

It's so sad the good hearted poor suffer from the "my sh don't stink" wealthy dictator mongering class loving stuck up self absorbed, materialistic conceited idiots claiming they have Thailand in their best interest.

They need to take the kid gloves off and quash this crap asap for hijacking the airports and government buildings--It's terrorism! Real democratic nations wouldn't stand for this crap...nail em all, put the rest in jail and be done with it. Let them know if they want to hang around for this life, leave and don't infringe upon other's rights, then deal with the rest swiftly while they commit treason! If they want to protest, let them go to Benja Selee Park or apply for a protest permit and give them a location where it won't disrupt innocent businesses and tourists. Stupidity runs deep, far and wide!

To Mr. Bad Dog
written by Athita , November 28, 2008

As I read your comment, I found there are something twisted from the facts that actually happened.

1). You said that Thaksin once said "Democracy is not my gold"

But you know what? Who did he respond this message to? Those NGOs who blamed him for dictatorship and these people now are asking the military to topple the elected government!!

2). You said the first Ed. Min. (Dr. Kasem Wattanachai), he resigned from Thaksin's cabinet because he felt Thaksin not willing to develop the education

Ok. Dr. Kasem now is a king's advisor. When the CNS chose Gen. Surayud as PM, Surayud appointed Dr. Vichit Srisa-arn as Ed. Min. He tried to "improve" education. But you know, it failed.

Thaksin's education development is not the same old way that Kasem wanted, but Thaksin's way is like Robert Kiyosaki (author of Rich Dad Poor Dad). That is, learning by doing, not learning by copying like these days or in the past.

3). You said

"Remember the King giving it straight to Thaksin on national TV on his annual birthday address a few years ago: "Mr. Thaksin, your ears don't hear too well, and your eyes don't see too well, and they always draw you with that satellite around your head". (loose translation mine)"

No, I don't remember this. But I do remember that King said

3.1) the King said "the nation is not failed, so don't attempt to rescue it" as he referred to "Save Nation" campaign by the PAd

3.2) I remember the King said to Gen. Sonthi, he said " Thaksin is a good man"

3.3). His daughter, Princess Sirindhon said to AP reporter when asked if the PAD doing things for monarchy, she said "I don't think so, I think they do things for themselves"

3.4) The King said " Thank you Prime Minister Thaksin, I pledge you. But when I say this, some who don't like you may not love to hear that I pledge you" (go check it man, if you don't believe me)

3.5) The King said on his birthday " I'm saying the PM, (Thaksin) has not done wrong (for making merit at Wat Prakaew)"

3.6) The King said to the judges "Article 7 does not empower the King to appoint the National Government. Whoever said that is, sorry, a messy idea. Doing that is not democracy"

ANd you know what? THe guys who asked for Article 7 are academics who teach Law!!!

hahahah

Kingdom of Illusions
written by Bad Dog , November 28, 2008

This is in response to Tom Harkins:
As everyone knows Thaksin managed to create quite a bandwagon by the start of his first term as PM and this included many of the elite in prominent positions. Unfortunately, over the next six years nearly all the respectable and capable of them jumped off after experiencing Thaksin's autocratic undemocratic and anti-intellectual ways.
Remember he stated "Democracy is not my goal".
Remember his first Education Minister quit after only a few months citing his belief that Thaksin was not sincere in wanting to reform the Education system.
Remember Thaksin himself quit the same position after a few months and so did most subsequent appointments.
Remember Thaksin made all his billions through "ugly crony capitalism" .

I do appreciate the view that he gave poor people something when they had been largely ignored except at election time, but the point is that he gave them fish instead of teaching them how to fish. Remember his tour of the poor with his amazing bottomless wallet and inexhaustible supply of shallow patronizing useless advice.
Remember the King giving it straight to Thaksin on national TV on his annual birthday address a few years ago: "Mr. Thaksin, your ears don't hear too well, and your eyes don't see too well, and they always draw you with that satellite around your head". (loose translation mine)
Read between the lines...
Perhaps my assertions about 'paid mobs' require clarification. I expect the PAD does pay for food and transport, but I know Thaksin offers cash payments of around 200 baht per day because I have heard for myself taxi drivers discussing the pros and cons of accepting "money from Chieng Mai" fairly openly.
Unfortunately, Thailand has never really known the sort of democracy which you advocate and which we both desire because big business has been the main constituency of every government Thailand has ever had and Thaksin is the living embodiment of that.

KON THAI JAI DEE, RATTHABAHN MAI DEE, MEUANG THAI BPEN YUNG NEE DTALORD
i.e. Good people, bad governments, Thailand has always been like this

Sorry Tom.

What a wonderful country
written by John Lim , November 28, 2008

Thailand is a wonderful country. As the days pass by, the picture of one behind all the chaos becomes clearer and clearer. The whole world know who is behind these terrorists. Thailand is the only country in the whole planet that is blind enough to ignore the fact. All newspapers and all the tv staions are still trying to blame Thaksin for these chaos. WAKE UP THAILAND!
It is time for Thailand to be hatched. We must accept the truth that we need change, like America. Change we need! We can never go no living lifes we are living now. If we don't accept the truth, everything will fall apart. The country will collapse soon. If the tops refuse to change, the people must act to force a change. Time is running out. All of us know the real problem now. It is up the the Thais to act or face extinction. We have no more time to waste. All the Thais must wake up and demand a truth democracy. Only truth democracy will lead the country to prosper. We don't need a dinosaur system that is not accepted throughout the world. For those who refuse to change, we can only invite them to live in some African countries. No more no less.

...
written by Tom Harkens , November 28, 2008

Bad Dog says "Thaksin and his cronies have a proven record of employing paid mobs both inside and outside parliament" and highlights that Thaksin bought his parliamentary support.

I am sorry, Dog, but you would have us believe that the rich and powerful of Bangkok sat idly by while Thaksin bought his way to power? Using the ample resources of the rural poor? OK, so he is rich. And undoubtedly he used money to buy support - as all parties do here. But his support with the majority of Thais is grounded in their appreciation of cheap, universal health care, rural development programmes and transfers to village communities. Given the contrast between life in shiny BKK and life up-country, that seems like a reasonable approach.

The fact is, PAD is a paid mob, funded by people angry at seeing the majority - made up of poor folk - wielding their democratic rights. Basically TRT and now PPP have supported policies Thailand should have implemented 30 years ago - and that pisses off those who have benefited from an inequitable distribution of wealth and power. Quite simple, not simplistic: Elites want power and wealth, and are willing to do whatever it takes to overthrow democracy. That is not complicated.

My man
written by Athita , November 27, 2008

Khun Gile,

You're my man!! haha, no one in Thailand dare to speak out like you but many people on streets know exactly what's going on in Thailand.

However, I don't think the King has much choice to do. His wife can control his mind as he's lately weaker and getting too old. You know, wife's rules.

So I think the King has limited choice. He's good man, I know but at this time, he's too old. Some of his aide and some elites are acting like little green man by keep blocking him from politics.

Anyway, you're my man.

P.S. for whoever think Mr. Gile is pro-government, I don't think so, but Gile has his own gut.

...
written by V , November 27, 2008

f**k PAD, King & Queen back up them. We don't need elite. We need democracy.

PAD (PEOPLE AGAINST DEMOCRACY)
written by Krathingdaeng , November 27, 2008

What a mess they are making out of this country. Think for a moment, how come a croock like Sondhi Limthongkul can prolonged his rally against a legitimate government, strange isn't it, he supposed to be bankrupt and from where he got all these monies to broadcast live television about thir protests, day and night. Now, that means, there must be a huge financial source supporting this group, I have no doubt that this is the work of General Prem Tinasulanond who is using the Royal Family for personal gains.

Mr.
written by Bad Dog , November 27, 2008

"We're not in Kansas anymore, Toto"

To make the step from a medium-sized business to a large business here in Thailand still requires protection via an established connection or making one. That's one reason why there are too many businessmen in politics in Thailand - let alone those in it mainly for the personal glory or to make a handsom profit on their investment in campaigning.

Dreaming of full democracy seems pointless when 76 years have shown us that patronage will continue to trump democracy here until a modern education system is implemented. Unfortunately, until that day comes, a semi-elected Upper House seems the best/mostworkable solution available. It is common knowledge the last fully-elected Senate was dominated by Thaksin through the loyalty of Senators who sold their votes to him for about 50,000 baht per month. So much for Cheing Mai's self-styled "Champion of Democracy". Chutzpah perhaps, but not democracy.

Thaksin and his cronies have a proven record of employing paid mobs both inside and outside parliament, so this pattern is likely to be repeated to serve their ultimate ends. Unfortunately they all appear clueless as to how to turn Thailand into a nation of knowledge workers because they don't really understand the benefits of what they never earned for themselves.

Of course, the West's governmental and academic complicity in supporting a "democratically elected" leader is clearly simplistic rubbish promulgated purely for their own benefit at the thai people's expense.

Bad Dog in Da House

Decision time
written by Tom Harkens , November 27, 2008

This is clearly a pro-government article, but its facts are pretty much correct. The PAD is an anti-democratic movement that has emerged as a result of the TRT and UDD parties developing a clear majority of urban and rural poor. The elites basically don't like this - so hurl accusations of corruption at the ruling party - while also stating that the poor are too ignorant to have the majority power. It is an embarrassment. The author here tags the military and King as those that have the potential to influence the crisis, risking being charged with lese majeste with his comments about the King. Thailand is on the verge of another coup, as the military has two choices - to remove the PAD from the airport and Govt House and return BKK to rule of law - or to carry out another of their coups. Their sympathies are with the PAD - so we can expect a coup any day.

Royal insurgency
written by Sirikit , November 27, 2008

The PAD is actually Royal insurgents against an elected government.

How sad
written by ty , November 26, 2008

This is very unfortunate for Thailand.

BUT, real democracy must be gievn to the people. Thailand has over 60 million people and most are poor. It is sick to go back to feudalism.

The solution here is for the authorities to do their duties in restoring law and order because Thailand does not belogn to the elites, but to all and every single Thai citizen.

The name of the game is power
written by homeboy , November 26, 2008

As stated above, the lady and the feudal lords are the one pulling all the strings behind the scene. With the military, police, civil servants and the judges bowing to their will, what can an elected government do? A government by the poor people, for the poor people is not acceptable to the riches and powerful.

As of now the military, the civil servants and the so-called professors from ivory towers are staging a silent coup, calling the government elected by the rural poor to resign. Sure, all the plans were laid down ever since the coup in 2006 and rewriting of the 2007 Charter. This is it, if all Thai people don't stand up and express their view. There will be another 50 years of darkness ahead of us.

Fuedal Society
written by Sirikit , November 26, 2008

What the PAD is advocating is a return to the Fuedalistic Monarchy not democracy. The reason why they are allowed to disrupt the government functions is that the Royalist, Military, Bangkok urban elites and Judiciary have lined up behind the Queen and her conspirators to fund and support their activities. We are witnessing the crushing burden on the peasantry and urban poors for the benefits of a few benefactor of the royal blessing.

Building a Healthy Society
written by Keerock Rook , November 26, 2008

When the game to keep power is being lost the choices are:
- Foul until the opponent can't win.
- Respect the opponent who has done a better job.
- Be gracious to the winner and start preparing to do a better a job in the next contest.
It is obvious which choice Thailand is making, but it need not be so.
The elected government is continuing to adapt and stepping up to the challenge.
They may be the underdog but I'm on their side.

...
written by Ingrid , November 26, 2008

This is 1989 Burma in reverse. If this becomes any worse anyone with any degree of intelligence is not going to step foot in the country or invest in it for that matter. I can't believe what I have been hearing and no law enforcement body is doing squat. People are stranded and abandoned by airport personnel because of a bunch of renegades. This PAD group has no idea or concept of what democracy is. If they had they would have spent the man hours been productive not counter-productive. However having said that, anyone in their right mind wouldn't vote for these idiots if their life depended on it. They are nothing more than a bunch of yellow-bellied cowards.