Junta’s priorities the opposite of society’s

[webfact]

Junta’s priorities the opposite of society’s

By The Nation

 

 

A recent opinion poll illustrates the gulf between what the generals want and what citizens need

 

The results of a recent poll regarding the long-term government blueprint for Thailand’s development come as no surprise. More than half the respondents had no idea there even was a grand strategy going before the National Legislative Assembly – or that their future was being set in stone for the next 20 years.

 

In the Super Poll of 1,150 people of various backgrounds from June 5 to 15, 54.9 per cent of respondents asked in return what the national strategy was, while 64 per cent had at least heard about it. More than 90 per cent agreed that the national strategy should be better explained to the public so that citizens can be directly involved.

 

The military-led government incorporated a strategy proposal in the 2017 Constitution. The junta – the National Council for Peace and Order – was concerned that political conflict might resume and would continue to constrain the country’s growth. But the junta has never been good at communicating needs and objectives to the public, and now it has another problem on its hands.

 

In an analysis, the survey administrator said the 20-year strategy didn’t seem to appeal to the average citizen, who was even less impressed that it aimed at consolidating state power. There had been public input on the strategy, it was noted, but this was largely ignored, so the resulting document does not reflect public priorities, according to poll respondents.

 

In fact, the 20-year-plan contains no meaningful vision other than to maintain a significant share of power for the military. What’s needed, of course, is just the opposite – a strategy free of military involvement and a constitution that keeps soldiers in the barracks unless there’s dire, legislated need for action. It would also be desirable to consider a strategy of divestment from military-run businesses and enterprises like banks and broadcast media. This single institution has far too much power even in more democratic times.

 

Not only is the 20-year plan counterproductive, it also threatens to stymie policy initiatives that might move Thailand forward politically and economically. It forces all governments elected in the next two decades, for example, to accede to the strategy, a document that makes it exceedingly difficult to amend the current Constitution for the betterment of society. This plan is in essence about securing not just the junta’s legacy but also the military’s place in national politics for the foreseeable future.

 

The poll results indicated that citizens are more concerned about the sluggish economy and its impacts on their livelihoods. They are comparatively less worried about politics and the power struggle between the generals and pro-democracy groups. The priorities are just the reverse for the junta, which has reason to be deeply concerned about its political survival, even as economic progress is being muted.

 

With economic uncertainty comes fear and anxiety, as the poll results suggested on the question of public attitude towards foreign migrant workers “stealing” Thai jobs. The junta could hardly be expected to give this sensitive issue its proper context by explaining the benefits that accrue from use of foreign labour.

 

Of course, the junta could also hardly be expected to take the messages of the opinion poll to heart. Amid speculation that the generals could find a way to cling to power without the need for a general election, the priorities and interests of citizens are almost certain to remain ignored.

 

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/opinion/30348166

 

-- © Copyright The Nation 2018-06-20

[YetAnother]

30 minutes ago, webfact said:

54.9 per cent of respondents asked in return what the national strategy was, while 64 per cent had at least heard about it. More than 90 per cent agreed that the national strategy should be better explained to the public so that citizens can be directly involved.

direct involvement is exactly counter to what military generals are all about; theirs is an arrogant, do-not-challenge-me mindset; add the mindless, child-like, self developed skill of fabricating and delivering excuses...

[Samui Bodoh]

"...In fact, the 20-year-plan contains no meaningful vision other than to maintain a significant share of power for the military. What’s needed, of course, is just the opposite – a strategy free of military involvement and a constitution that keeps soldiers in the barracks unless there’s dire, legislated need for action. It would also be desirable to consider a strategy of divestment from military-run businesses and enterprises like banks and broadcast media. This single institution has far too much power even in more democratic times..."

 

Wow.

 

Good for you, Nation! I didn't think you had it in you...

 

The paragraph above is quite correct; no society can develop and flourish if there is a large element that is exempt from the normal rules and regulations which govern all other citizens and entities. In short, the military and its subsidiary enterprises have unfair access to laws, resources and law--enforcement which creates an uneven playing-field. And when there is an uneven playing-field, people and entities that could contribute greatly to Thailand's development are either shut out or shut down.

 

"...Not only is the 20-year plan counterproductive, it also threatens to stymie policy initiatives that might move Thailand forward politically and economically. It forces all governments elected in the next two decades, for example, to accede to the strategy, a document that makes it exceedingly difficult to amend the current Constitution for the betterment of society. This plan is in essence about securing not just the junta’s legacy but also the military’s place in national politics for the foreseeable future..."

 

Correct.

 

The 20 year "strategy" is designed to ensure continued military power over the development of Thai society. If it is allowed to be implemented, it will have the "Wet-Blanket" effect, snuffing out all independent thought and creativity, leaving behind shoddy ideas and entities who suffer decline and degradation due to lack of competition. Any society that wishes to thrive in the future will need to have its full creative potential unleashed; failure to allow that means that the aforementioned society will walk into the future dragging the dead weight of oppression on its back.

 

Thailand; if you want to have a pleasant, prosperous future, you need to utilize all the tools that you have in order to achieve it. Carrying the dead weight of the military as you stride forward ultimately means that you will simply witness your neighbours strive ahead of you, and you will be left muttering about your former 'glory days'...

 

 

[Cadbury]

A courageous story which clearly points out the shortcomings of the military junta and It's autocratic leader. 

History has shown that military officers are far from being the best people to run a country simply because their life's experience revolves around a parade ground and either barking or obeying orders.

They just lack the basic skills needed to do a very difficult job.

Their culture is built around obedience and nothing less will be tolerated. Compassion and humanity is not in the generals genes and ordinary people are seen as just toy soldiers and a means to an end.

With them running the show Thailand is stuffed. They make a mess of everything they touch and their world is built around dreams.

 

Edited June 19, 2018 by Cadbury

[Lungstib]

1 hour ago, webfact said:

no meaningful vision other than to maintain a significant share of power for the military.

Quite simply, that's the story. Involvement in internal politics rather than protection of the borders. They seem to have misunderstood completely what their position in society should be and need to be corrected. Reduction in both size and power is essential.

[neeray]

38 minutes ago, Lungstib said:

Quite simply, that's the story. Involvement in internal politics rather than protection of the borders. They seem to have misunderstood completely what their position in society should be and need to be corrected. Reduction in both size and power is essential.

Lungstib (above) seems to have identified it correctly in very few words. The role of the  military needs redefining. Coups have become similar to annual events, just not annually.

[yellowboat]

Many on this forum knew this was going to happen the day uniforms started patrolling the streets back in 2014.   This is what happens when you give up your participatory government to autocrats who love wearing medals on their chest.  The 20 year plan is like locking the rudder on a ship.  It cannot navigate, and Thailand is going in circles or is adrift.  The Thais I work with are wonderful, and they teach me many things.  Sadly, their futures will not be as bright as they should, given their talent. 

[Anak Nakal]

Military want power.

Thai people not want military.

Military hurt Thailand.

Bad situation.

 

[Jimbo in Thailand]

FINALLY!  A few Thai articles opposing the illegal military rule are beginning to appear.  It's only 4 years late, but better late than never I suppose.  Hmmm... there may be some hope for the former-LOS after all... and The Nation newspaper as well.  Time will tell.

[Eric Loh]

Lots more of anti junta articles after owner change to an aristocrat from a noble family line. More signs of rift between establishment and the military. Refreshingly good. 

[tigermoth]

3 hours ago, Samui Bodoh said:

"...In fact, the 20-year-plan contains no meaningful vision other than to maintain a significant share of power for the military. What’s needed, of course, is just the opposite – a strategy free of military involvement and a constitution that keeps soldiers in the barracks unless there’s dire, legislated need for action. It would also be desirable to consider a strategy of divestment from military-run businesses and enterprises like banks and broadcast media. This single institution has far too much power even in more democratic times..."

 

Wow.

 

Good for you, Nation! I didn't think you had it in you...

 

The paragraph above is quite correct; no society can develop and flourish if there is a large element that is exempt from the normal rules and regulations which govern all other citizens and entities. In short, the military and its subsidiary enterprises have unfair access to laws, resources and law--enforcement which creates an uneven playing-field. And when there is an uneven playing-field, people and entities that could contribute greatly to Thailand's development are either shut out or shut down.

 

"...Not only is the 20-year plan counterproductive, it also threatens to stymie policy initiatives that might move Thailand forward politically and economically. It forces all governments elected in the next two decades, for example, to accede to the strategy, a document that makes it exceedingly difficult to amend the current Constitution for the betterment of society. This plan is in essence about securing not just the junta’s legacy but also the military’s place in national politics for the foreseeable future..."

 

Correct.

 

The 20 year "strategy" is designed to ensure continued military power over the development of Thai society. If it is allowed to be implemented, it will have the "Wet-Blanket" effect, snuffing out all independent thought and creativity, leaving behind shoddy ideas and entities who suffer decline and degradation due to lack of competition. Any society that wishes to thrive in the future will need to have its full creative potential unleashed; failure to allow that means that the aforementioned society will walk into the future dragging the dead weight of oppression on its back.

 

Thailand; if you want to have a pleasant, prosperous future, you need to utilize all the tools that you have in order to achieve it. Carrying the dead weight of the military as you stride forward ultimately means that you will simply witness your neighbours strive ahead of you, and you will be left muttering about your former 'glory days'...

 

 

Agreed. The military has no place in the government. It is prevented from doing so in many democratic countries constitutions, England, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada to name a few. The so called 20 year stratagy is not a lawful doctrine as it was introduced by a non elected, (unlawful), government but if by some weird happening the junta fails to cling to power I fail to see it being overthrown. Even if a non military government is elected there is always the threat of a military more concerned with their power base, and monetary benifits, than the defence of the country.

[chama]

It is not news that the junta and its cronies have only self interest in mind and are only will to to provide for the average Thai citizen what they must provide to stay in power. If they win the election, if there ever is an election, it will only get worse. Then don't be surprised to see steps taken to alter the political system to allow for longer (say maybe for life) the terms leaders can hold office. Power is intoxicating...especially when there is no feeling of responsibility.

[neeray]

7 minutes ago, chama said:

It is not news that the junta and its cronies have only self interest in mind and are only will to to provide for the average Thai citizen what they must provide to stay in power. If they win the election, if there ever is an election, it will only get worse. Then don't be surprised to see steps taken to alter the political system to allow for longer (say maybe for life) the terms leaders can hold office. Power is intoxicating...especially when there is no feeling of responsibility.

  "Power is intoxicating" ......  "(say maybe for life)" This is the new trend spreading around the world.

Copy cat syndrome is thriving.

[Srikcir]

8 hours ago, webfact said:

It would also be desirable to consider a strategy of divestment from military-run businesses and enterprises like banks and broadcast media.

Wow.

First time I've seen this recognized in public, albeit falls short of identifying the entire spectrum of the military's enterprises of which some illegal activities have also been exposed.

The Thai military operates as if it is in itself a self-contained sovereign body.

 

[spidermike007]

The goons in charge are focusing their efforts in all the wrong areas. They are trying to make Thailand a Quaker State. A land of purity. Total BS. Nonsense. Misplaced priorities, and wasted efforts. They should be focusing their efforts on traffic and public safety, easing import tariffs, making visa policy simpler, and more friendly, boosting Western tourism, real crackdowns on slavery, and illegal fishing instead of nonsensical hyperbole, cleaning up the water, the air, the rivers, and the beaches, and other things that actually improve lives.

 

The poll results indicated that citizens are more concerned about the sluggish economy and its impacts on their livelihoods. They are comparatively less worried about politics and the power struggle between the generals and pro-democracy groups. The priorities are just the reverse for the junta, which has reason to be deeply concerned about its political survival, even as economic progress is being muted.

 

Little P. and his top generals and ministers are not particularly concerned with the economy, as their economy is gangbusters. With the millions being collected at that level, they have no idea how the average man or woman is doing. Ivory Tower thievery is taking place at a massive level. 

 

 Little P. Not making Thailand great again. And moving the nation backwards at an astonishing and alarming pace.  

Edited June 20, 2018 by spidermike007

[DogsBarkingAllDay]

Does anyone know what is the Junta's 20 year strategy plan? 

Can share here? 

[Sir Dude]

Quote

Junta’s priorities the opposite of society’s

Well...imagine that.

[Eric Loh]

1 hour ago, IAMjustAforeignerWHOloveTH said:

Does anyone know what is the Junta's 20 year strategy plan? 

Can share here? 

Still a work in progress with the NLA. Suppose to include public hearings on the draft for opinions and suggestions. The junta don't talk about this anymore so just an internal document with no public inputs. The way the junta like it.