Six months into Thailand’s latest experiment with military rule, cracks are starting to show, with irritation rising at the lack of widespread reform and the growing realization that the military won’t give up power any time soon. Discontent appears to be building slowly. It is not widespread, with most urbanites continuing to support the junta, but there appear to be splits behind the scenes between the military and the Privy Council, King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s council of advisors, as Prayuth moves to concentrate power, sidelining some of the forces aligned with Prem Tinsulanonda, the 94-year-old former army general who heads the powerful Council and freezing out civilian influence. There is also rising criticism over revelations of the substantial wealth built up by Prayuth and his brother as well as other members of the military.
Thailand Junta Not Wearing Well
Thailand Junta Not Wearing Well
Thailand Junta Not Wearing Well
Six months into Thailand’s latest experiment with military rule, cracks are starting to show, with irritation rising at the lack of widespread reform and the growing realization that the military won’t give up power any time soon. Discontent appears to be building slowly. It is not widespread, with most urbanites continuing to support the junta, but there appear to be splits behind the scenes between the military and the Privy Council, King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s council of advisors, as Prayuth moves to concentrate power, sidelining some of the forces aligned with Prem Tinsulanonda, the 94-year-old former army general who heads the powerful Council and freezing out civilian influence. There is also rising criticism over revelations of the substantial wealth built up by Prayuth and his brother as well as other members of the military.
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