New Political Party Ready To Launch

[Plus]

Thaksin was able to get away with this kind of behavior and so will Samak, their arrogance doesn't register with their supporters (and for some it's even a plus), and they both gave up trying to look good for their opponents and swing voters. On pro/anti Thaskin issue there aren't any undecideds left anyway.

In a sense, I hope their arrogance does NOT register with voters. The major problem in many democracies- and including- maybe especially- the North American ones- is that the personality of the man is deemed more important than the policies that he will or has implemented. (remember the overwhelming woman vote- largest in Cdn history- for the handsome and charming, Mulroney).

Informed voters, vote the policies- not the personality of the leader.

Here is a policy preview - the media should ask only preapproved questions. Does it register with his supporters? I bet yes, do they care? NO.

The arrogance itself is not as frightening, it's just tells us that if elected, expect anti-Samak media campaign on the scale of anti-Thaksin's.

>>>>

You gave a nice list of politicians who snubbed the media here and there. Did anyone told journalists to "<deleted> off" while on a campaign trail? Samak did that for the second day in the row, beginning with this registration speech.

>>>>

Lots of people would like to appear to be pulling the strings behind the coup, the so called "real reason". The fact is that without half the country voting "no" in April their alleged "power" would be zero. It was a social force that would have found one outlet or the other. I wouldn't pay much attention to conspiracy theories.

[John K]

For the moment I have to agree the division Thaksin made still exists to a significant extent. An 18 party debate would be an interesting event to watch. I can imagine 18 podiums with 17 people because the PPP/TRT will not attend. That would be a lose lose situation for the PPP/TRT simply by how that would register conceptually on a subconscious level. If the PPP/TRT do attend the 18 party debate their answers will do them in. The only leg the PPP/TRT many have to fall back on is they are above debates and that too will send it’s own message of arrogance and of having no concern for the country.

[John K]

PPP risks probe on TRT role

Banned politicians alleged to be involved

The alleged involvement of two former Thai Rak Thai executives in the selection of People Power party (PPP) candidates might deal a serious blow to the party as the election race hots up. While the Election Commission (EC) has reserved its comments on the claim, commissioner Praphan Naikowit has opened the way for an investigation into the matter. ''If a formal complaint is filed, the EC is ready to take up the matter for consideration. But right now we cannot say anything,'' he said.

He noted that it may not be worth investigating the allegation simply because it was reported by the press.

According to media reports, Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan and Newin Chidchob allegedly meddled with the selection of PPP's party-list candidates contesting Zone 6 of the proportional representation system covering Bangkok, Nonthaburi and Samut Prakan.

The PPP executives met on Tuesday.....

More here:

http://www.bangkokpost.net/News/10Nov2007_news01.php

[John K]

It looks like enough hanging rope has been given to the PPP/TRT and now the hangman is eyeing the leaver sticking out of the floor.

[sriracha john]

My mouth speaks my mind, says an unrepentant Samak

People Power Party (PPP) leader Samak Sundaravej yesterday showed no remorse over his use of vulgar language with reporters who had pressed him to answer whether two leading members of the disbanded Thai Rak Thai Party had helped compile the party-list candidates.

Samak asked PPP beat reporters in the newsroom at his party headquarters on Thursday why The Nation had blown up the report.

As the PPP chief was trying to mend fences with reporters, a television channel ran footage of Samak asking the Siam Rath reporter, "Did you have sinful sex last night?" when he faced questions about the roles of banned Thai Rak Thai members Newin Chidchob and Sudarat Keyuraphan.

Reacting to reporters who asked if the incident would affect the party's chances of winning the election, Samak angrily shot back: "It is the abject nature of television. We will see if voters do not vote for the party because of me."

When a reporter persisted in asking if he did not care how the voters felt about his aggressive nature, Samak answered, "No, this is me. I am not artificial. My mouth speaks my mind. What about the press, are they the father of the country?''

The reporters argued that they had the right to pose the question because the party received grants from the Election Commission, which is taxpayers' money. "But I also have the right to use my way of exchanging blows to end the conversation,'' Samak said. "My party also understands what happened. The reporters harassed me, so I taught them a lesson,'' he added.

When asked whether he would use the same tactic if he was posed the same question, Samak answered, "Absolutely, there is no clause in the Constitution that forbids me.''

Chirmsak Pinthong, a former senator and drafter of the 2007 Constitution, criticised Samak's choice of words as "impolite and inappropriate", saying he could not believe Samak would use such words with a reporter.

"As the party leader, he should control his emotions,'' Chirmsak said.

Samak's party was found to be trailing its major rival, the Democrat Party, in a survey of Bangkok voters conducted on Thursday.

The poll by Ramkhamhaeng University found that the Democrats are far more popular than the PPP among Bangkok residents, with some 52 per cent of respondents saying it was their favourite party. Only 13.5 per cent favoured PPP, with Chart Thai getting top rating from 4 per cent, Matchima Thipataya 1.8 per cent, and Puea Pandin and Ruam Jai Thai Chart Pattana 0.8 per cent each.

Ninety-one per cent of the 1,464 respondents said they knew the election would be held on December 23.

Asked if they knew the ballot number of their favourite party, 50 per cent said yes, 34 per cent said no, and 12.7 per cent said they did not like any party so they did not care.

More than half the respondents said they did not believe the number ballot allotted to each party would affect their performance in the election.

Less than 20 per cent believed either numbers 1 or 9 would bring luck to the parties to which they were allotted, while only 2.7 per cent believed the number 13 was a bad omen to the party it represented. The respondents said politician's deeds would have more impact than the numbers on their chances of winning the election.

- The Nation

[sriracha john]

However unrepentant he his to the media... he did apologize to his own party...

Samak apologises to PPP

The People Power Party has resolved its infighting after party leader Samak Sundaravej apologised on Thursday night for the inclusion of two anti-coup campaigners among the 10 party-list candidates for proportionate voting in Zone 6, which covers Bangkok.

"The rift is over following the meeting between Samak and candidates for the direct vote in Bangkok," Watthana Sengpairoh, a party candidate said Friday.

Samak sought and received forgiveness for causing concern that the two campaigners, Jatuporn Phromphan and Manit Chitchanklap, might instigate campaign violence similar to what happened during one of their anti-coup rallies in July, he said.

Samak admitted to making a mistake for failing to consult every candidate before completing the party-list and Jatuporn vowed to abide by the campaign rules, he added.

*and we are all aware, from Post #989, just how honest and truthful Jauporn is.*

He said Samak remained popular among Bangkok constituents in spite of his war of words with the local press.

He revealed that two party advisers, Pongthep Thepkanchana and Phumtham Wetchayachai, organised the meeting for Samak to mend fences.

Party Secretary-General Surapong Suebwonglee said four party executives were responsible for selecting party-list candidates including Samak, two of Samak's deputies, Sompong Amornwiwat and Yongyuth Tiyapairat, and Surapong.

*ahhhh... a quick denial, in light of the Election Commission's interest, that banned Newin nor banned Sudarat had any role, despite previous references to them.*

The eight party lists of 80 candidates were finalised late Tuesday evening, and Samak left before completing the lists because he was ill, he said, adding the three remaining executives based their decision on many factors when choosing the candidates.

"Because of a large number of qualified individuals, it is obvious that some people failed to make it to the final list and the party has assigned them to be on another list as potential office holders," he said.

- The Nation

Edited November 10, 2007 by sriracha john

[John K]

SJ, looking back at a few of your post over the last week or so, you make it sound like you actually expected something truthful or representations of reality coming from the PPP/TRT camp.

[sriracha john]

Not really. Just expected their lying to be up to a higher standard.

[Siripon]

The bad blood between Newin and Sudarat goes back a long way, it's not surprising they can't work together. Some say Newin is the one Thaksin trusts the most so it must be galling for Sudarat and Samak for him to interfere in selection of candidates.

Look forward to lots more verbal explosions from Samak.

It was surprising to hear Banharn express in such certain terms his loyalty to the Democrats, perhaps the inclusion of Chalerm in Palang Prachachon was the last straw as Banharn hates Chalerm for his part in the no confidence debate against him when he was PM.

Regarding party lists with a maximum of the 8 names that can win, what will happen if the Democrats win all 8 in zone 8 and during the course of Parliament one dies? There's no replacement, surely a by-election for one Party List MP is a waste of money?

[John K]

Not really. Just expected their lying to be up to a higher standard.

You know I am not disputing that but Thaksin has sure tarnished this bunch. From the other parties that I have heard statements from it does at least sound like they have the countries interest in mind. The PPP is just out for revenge, they are full of rage and anger. Based on Samak’s comment to the journalist, he must have been real fired up from what was and is going on behind closed doors.

It is actually scary to think of what they would do if they lost. Seeing as the election results announcement is so close to new years eve, I can easily see another set of bombings like last year if they don’t win. I think the American term “Going Postal” would apply.

There are a few key things I will be watching for as the elections get closer. One of them will be the tone of HRH birthday speech. I will also be looking to see if there is any posturing by the military such as troop movements and so on. It would not surprise me to see troops again on the streets as added security from around election day until after the new years celebrations are completed. They are all telltale signs of anxiety in the government.

[hammered]

Not really. Just expected their lying to be up to a higher standard.

You know I am not disputing that but Thaksin has sure tarnished this bunch. From the other parties that I have heard statements from it does at least sound like they have the countries interest in mind. The PPP is just out for revenge, they are full of rage and anger. Based on Samak’s comment to the journalist, he must have been real fired up from what was and is going on behind closed doors.

It is actually scary to think of what they would do if they lost. Seeing as the election results announcement is so close to new years eve, I can easily see another set of bombings like last year if they don’t win. I think the American term “Going Postal” would apply.

There are a few key things I will be watching for as the elections get closer. One of them will be the tone of HRH birthday speech. I will also be looking to see if there is any posturing by the military such as troop movements and so on. It would not surprise me to see troops again on the streets as added security from around election day until after the new years celebrations are completed. They are all telltale signs of anxiety in the government.

Allowing Newin to alter the Bangkok list order has certainly sent out the message that the confrontationist wing of PPP are in full control. Even their motor mouthpiece surrogate leader doesnt really have much say. I guess theway it was secretly done and the timing meant the the other wing couldnt leave the party as it was too late to join another. Things at PPP may be getting interesting. Certainly we now know it s all about pardoning one person and nothing else and it will be pushed to any degree with the elevation of the politcal thugs over quieter ex-TRT MPs. We also now know that Samak has little to no control over the party, which he didnt want coming out hence the outburst. Interesting. I would wager a baht or two that Mr. Thaksin would much rather be physically closer to the party right now as rumblings continue. Mind you another tranche of dough shoud sort out any differences in this disparate band of political whores after all the so called leftisits and turned their backs on their former colleagues for a dose of power of power and cash) ex-October people were quite happy to allow themselves to be under Samak.

[Old Man River]

It is actually scary to think of what they would do if they lost. Seeing as the election results announcement is so close to new years eve, I can easily see another set of bombings like last year if they don’t win. I think the American term “Going Postal” would apply.

Interesting. You have proof that the former TRT was responsible for the New Year's Eve bombings? Please enlight all of us about this.

[John K]

It is actually scary to think of what they would do if they lost. Seeing as the election results announcement is so close to new years eve, I can easily see another set of bombings like last year if they don’t win. I think the American term “Going Postal” would apply.

Interesting. You have proof that the former TRT was responsible for the New Year's Eve bombings? Please enlight all of us about this.

At this point proving who set of bombs is about a complex as getting water out of a rock. In a way it is a lot like Thaksin, people know what he did but finding the paper trail to prove it is a challenge to say the least. If you take a look at the placement and timing of the bombs they have a political flavor of someone being angry and looking to lash out and destabilize the government. It does not take much to find what political party and or group of people that was and still is angry after the coup.

To answer you directly proof I do not have. However I do have a gut feeling based on the repeated and demonstrated nature of the PPP/TRT. They have not demonstrated any superior cognitive abilities to razzle dazzle their way into power, but they have repeatedly shown they are not afraid to draw blood to get their way. That gut feeling says that if they lose there is better than a 50% chance they will resort to this tactic.

[sriracha john]

Bangkok 'key battleground'

Victory in capital is crucial to party's chances of leading the next government, Abhisit says

Bangkok is likely to become a decisive battleground in determining whether the Democrat Party or its rivals claim victory to lead the next government, party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva said yesterday.

"The race is expected to be intense, though not anticipated to degenerate into social divisions, and a victory in Bangkok is crucial for the Democrats to have a chance at running the country," he said.

Abhisit was speaking at a press conference to introduce 36 candidates for direct election in 12 Bangkok constituencies.

All major parties plan to field top-notch candidates in the capital and three leading contenders for the position of prime minister are party-list candidates competing from Bangkok via proportionate voting. The three are Abhisit, Samak Sundaravej of the People Power Party and Prachai Leophairatana of Matchima Thipataya.

The registration of candidates for direct election to 400 House seats begins tomorrow and ends on Friday in 157 constituencies nationwide.

Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin pledged to campaign hard for his party's candidates in his capacity as a ranking Democrat. "I have already notified the Election Commission about my planned campaigning activities, which will take place outside office hours and not be related to any official duties," he said.

Apirak said he was confident that Bangkok residents would vote for the Democrats based on the merits of its campaign policies, which have been formulated with the people's input to serve their needs.

Well-known personalities running under the Democrat banner include party spokesman Ong-art Klampaiboon in Bangkok's constituency 12, which covers Bang Phlat, Bangkok Noi and Taling Chan.

Two lawmakers and anti-Thaksin campaigners, Samran Rodphet and Prapan Koonmee, will run in Bangkok's constituency 7, covering Bang Kapi, Saphan Sung and Min Buri.

Two first-time candidates, Sakolthee Phattiyakul and Kongsak Yodmani, will woo votes in constituency 4 (Bang Sue, Lak Si, Chatuchak and Phya Thai) and constituency 5 (Bang Khen, Sai Mai and Don Muang). Sokoltee is the son of junta secretary General Winai Phattiyakul and Kongsak's father is Tourism and Sports Minister Suvit Yodmani.

The Puea Pandin Party yesterday released 30 names out of 36 candidates for Bangkok constituencies, one day after the Matchima Thipataya Party announced its 36 candidates and a projection of complete victory in Bangkok.

High-profile candidates under the Puea Pandin banner are former lawmaker Nitipoom Navarat and his son Netipoom. Olympic bronze medallist Wichai Rachanon is trying to launch his political career by capitalising on his boxing prowess.

Party leader Suwit Khunkitti said his party would highlight policies on the environment, the elderly and quality of life in order to sway Bangkok voters.

"If elected, Puea Pandin will transform Bangkok into a happiness centre within four years," he said.

The People Power Party is scheduled to unveil its 36 candidates for Bangkok seats today.

Election Commission member Prapun Naigowit said he was consulting with the parties in order to assign them the same ballot numbers for proportionate voting and for direct voting in Bangkok.

"Because of the large number of constituency candidates, voters will have to memorise too many numbers if each candidate is assigned their own number," he said.

- The Nation

[sriracha john]

Samak enhances profile in the limelight with barbs

It was vintage Samak Sundaravej, a survivor of our gutter politics who still maintains an abrasive and combative style and doesn't care about the public's perception, when he had two verbal sparring sessions with news reporters last Thursday.

Samak has become the leader of the People Power Party, a fancy name to be reckoned with, and a well-funded, self-confessed nominee of Thaksin Shinawatra, the ex-premier now in political exile and away from arrest warrants in his name.

If there was anything surprising in Samak's hot temper and his attitude of never giving anything away to news reporters, it was the degree of tenacity he displayed despite being long past his prime. In a way, he compensates for his old age with the ferocity of his temper and readiness to exchange harsh words.

Most of the reporters who were the targets of his verbal pot-shots that day are younger than his daughters. He did not seem to care, but instead took pride in having more seniority than those posing uncomfortable questions and probing for an inconvenient truth from him.

He picked a press conference for a verbally combative session following some unpleasant questions about whether ex-Thai Rak Thai party executives banned from political activities by the Constitution Tribunal had helped him select the People Power Party's party-list candidates.

Samak shot back with his own question: "Did somebody hire you to ask that question? Where are you from?" The argument then flared up, and Samak increased the vehemence of his retort. This time he asked whether the reporter had sex on the previous night.

TV viewers unfamiliar with Samak might have been shocked by his emotional outburst and callous question. How could a politician of such an age enjoy a heated argument with news reporters? What about scruples and maintaining civility?

It was a controversial confrontation indeed. At least four reporters engaged in the argument, while the others were just witnesses. It required a certain degree of nerve to match words and emotions with Samak, whom both political greenhorns and cub reporters dread.

If that first session weren't terrible enough (though it was a source of laughter for Samak's party members from the hinterlands), the second of the evening was even more combative when he let loose with further harsh words.

"Why couldn't I hit back at you guys? Are you media fellows my daddy?"

By getting the public's attention with his inexplicable courage in these sharp verbal exchanges with news reporters, Samak can retain his status as "the one and only, who believes in his own invincibility".

Oh yes, Samak has gone through the rise and fall of his popularity. The peak of his political career was back in 1979, when he was the interior minister who assumed power following a bloodbath and a coup. Since then, he has been on an irreversible decline with his own Prachakorn Thai Party, which has seen a sinking number of winning candidates.

It has never occurred to him that his failure to attain nationwide popularity and this decline requires a serious change in his style and level of maturity. He abandoned his own party and let his younger brother take the leadership so that he could serve as Thaksin's nominee and regain a place in the limelight during his twilight years.

This is possibly his last shot at the premiership, which has been held twice by his long-time arch-rival, Chuan Leekpai of the Democrat Party.

His bad mood during the press conference might have come from the fear that his own clout and power in the new party was questionable if someone else messed with the choice of candidates. He could not allow himself to be seen as just a powerless figurehead doing the dirty work for some untold reward.

Never mind how the public perceives his behaviour, he posed a challenge: If you don't like me, don't vote for me. Let the people decide on my party.

Samak went further, claiming that a victory for the People Power Party would mean that Thaksin had not committed any guilt, but this point was shot down by Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont, who said that the criminal cases against Thaksin and the results of the general election were entirely different matters.

People Power Party candidates in Bangkok were not happy with Samak's big shows. They looked worried that the voters would reject them out of a dislike for the party's leader. They too could not complain due to fear of the wrath of the boss. Of course, some voters regard him as a political hero who never fears the media. That may be true. Samak's mouth has caused him many legal troubles. A case is pending in the Court of Appeals, after the Criminal Court sentenced him to a two-year jail term without probation.

This should serve as a real concern for Samak, who also awaits possible criminal charges for his involvement in the questionable procurement of fire-fighting equipment and boats. That's why he has always been regarded as "the man who would be prime minister".

He is the one and only again, the man who does not seem to recognise unpleasant reality.

- Sopon Onkgara, Sidelines, The Nation

[John K]

Now to use this against Samak, all they would need do is keep him spitting fire and fury and not addressing any of the questions, then I would think that even the most uneducated Thais could come to a conclusion that this is not a party to vote for. Subconsciously they would think ‘Don’t give an angry man a gun.’

[Old Man River]

To answer you directly proof I do not have. However I do have a gut feeling based on the repeated and demonstrated nature of the PPP/TRT. They have not demonstrated any superior cognitive abilities to razzle dazzle their way into power, but they have repeatedly shown they are not afraid to draw blood to get their way. That gut feeling says that if they lose there is better than a 50% chance they will resort to this tactic.

So, basically, after stating it as a fact you really have nothing, other than your personal gut feeling.

[John K]

To answer you directly proof I do not have. However I do have a gut feeling based on the repeated and demonstrated nature of the PPP/TRT. They have not demonstrated any superior cognitive abilities to razzle dazzle their way into power, but they have repeatedly shown they are not afraid to draw blood to get their way. That gut feeling says that if they lose there is better than a 50% chance they will resort to this tactic.

So, basically, after stating it as a fact you really have nothing, other than your personal gut feeling.

I Guess it is time to take a quote from Sherlock Holmes, ‘Once you eliminate everything what is left is what you are looking for.’

The only group that had motive to destabilize the government was TRT. It would not be the terrorists in the south because they don’t want to destabilize the government, they want to kill it.

All the other little bombs along the way were all political statements.

[Plus]

I wouldn't put the bombongs past TRT but there's no publicly available evidence so far, and never will be. I doubt bombing Bangkok would do them any good.

Latest poll suggest 180/160 split between PPP and Democrat MPs nationwide and unless PPP manages to win over 200 seats it has absolutely no hope of surviving in my view.

Chances that they can keep their flock stuck to Thaksin's coattails till the next elections are slim to none.

[hammered]

I wouldn't put the bombongs past TRT but there's no publicly available evidence so far, and never will be. I doubt bombing Bangkok would do them any good.

Latest poll suggest 180/160 split between PPP and Democrat MPs nationwide and unless PPP manages to win over 200 seats it has absolutely no hope of surviving in my view.

Chances that they can keep their flock stuck to Thaksin's coattails till the next elections are slim to none.

If that poll is accurate the Demos will be in the next government. The PPP numbers are too low and with Demos plus CT having 210 they are close enough to graft on another couple of parties. However, polls are often a bit off in Thailand in terms of elections so we shouldnt rule PPP out yet. Even if this poll is accurate the PPP are stil the biggest party although they will probably struggle to form a coalition in the realpolitik of Thailand right now.

[Plus]

The poll was about party popularity, local MPs are not even registered yet. I personally think PPP will be just a tad short of 240 seats, not as low as 180.

I can't remember when poll results before the elections were completely off. Even when the EC banned them and the Nation resorted to "large party" and "old party" monikers, they still got it right.

[sriracha john]

Speaking of the local MP registration, it got off to a rousing start with an impromptu dumping followed by threats of blackmail....

Registration begins for constituency candidates

The first day of registration for candidates in the 157 constituencies nationwide got off to a high-energy start this morning at the Thai-Japanese Sports Complex in Bangkok, and at other centres across the country. The first drama of the registration came from the first person to arrive - Leena Jangjanja. She demanded justice after being overlooked by Machima Thipataya party, of which she is a member, as a candidate in Bangkok. She warned party leader, Prachai Leohapairatana, that she will reveal classified documents to the public if he refused to nominate her as a candidate for parliament in the Dec 23 election.

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/b...s.php?id=123497

===================

You'd be hard-pressed to come up with a fictionalized opera.... that's better than this factual version.

Edited November 12, 2007 by sriracha john

[hammered]

The poll was about party popularity, local MPs are not even registered yet. I personally think PPP will be just a tad short of 240 seats, not as low as 180.

I can't remember when poll results before the elections were completely off. Even when the EC banned them and the Nation resorted to "large party" and "old party" monikers, they still got it right.

Before the charter referendum and the exit polls for it were very innaccurate. It may not be the actual poll that is warped but an unwillingness of those interviewed to answer truthfully. It may also be that even a nationwide poll is done in urabn rather than rural areas. Whatever, I agree with you that PPP will do a lot closer to 240 considering the candidates they seem to have lined up who are a lot of shoe in MPs who could win under any party banner but have transferred into Mr. Thaksins new organ.

[sriracha john]

Thaksin's arch-enemy could very well end up initiating the collapse of his new party?

TJA urges investigation into PPP affairs

Accuses Samak of hiding info from public

The Thai Journalists Association (TJA) yesterday indirectly criticised People Power party (PPP) leader Samak Sundaravej for concealing his party's affairs from the public and called for an investigation by the Election Commission. In a statement released yesterday, the association said the public had the right to know if the actions of a political party were in line with the law. A political party is a public organisation, has the possibility of running the nation and benefits from a political development fund raised from taxpayer money, which gives the public the right to know about its affairs, the TJA said. "A political party is not a personal asset or company belonging to anybody. No one can claim its movements are internal matters that the public should not need to know," the association said. It had been rumoured that former TRT politicians Sudarat Keyuraphan and Newin Chidchob, both serving a five-year ban from politics for electoral fraud, had interfered in the candidate selection process. However, Sudarat yesterday denied she had had any involvement in the selection of election candidates for PPP. But the TJA urged the Election Commission to investigate the allegations for the sake of legal enforcement. ''The Election Commission is duty-bound to ensure a fair and legitimate election,'' the TJA stated. The comment was in response to EC Commissioner Praphan Naikowit who said last week that the EC could not look into the issue without a formal complaint.

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/News/12Nov2007_news09.php

=====================================================================

If that is what the EC is stipulating, then, the TJA should just file a formal complaint. They are already "calling for an investigation" so a formal complaint should not be too much more.

Edited November 12, 2007 by sriracha john

[sriracha john]

If questions are too tough, go home

The remark will be long remembered: ''The UN is not my father!'' It came from the mouth of then-PM Thaksin Shinawatra who appeared annoyed by reporters who questioned him persistently about a United Nations report about alleged human rights abuses during his regime. Thaksin was known not to be on good terms with the media, especially the print media which he often treated with contempt. And when he was pestered with questions not to his liking he sometimes lost his cool and shot back, demanding to know which publications they represented. It was widely known Thaksin's dislike of the media, in particular media critical of his administration, was not limited to harsh words for reporters. Advertising by long-time clients suddenly disappeared. In serious cases, multi-million-baht defamation lawsuits were lodged against media critics. But Thaksin's contempt for the media pales when compared to his heir, Samak Sundaravej, leader of the TRT's incarnation, the PPP. By design or coincidence, his choice of Samak to pursue his unfinished legacy couldn't be more appropriate. Both Thaksin and Samak have at least one thing in common, they dislike the media. Samak also ridiculed the other reporters, saying that at their age their experience was no match for his.To quote Samak: ''Again, another one. Do you want to trap me? No way. Count your ages first. How old are the three of you? What is your duty? I have my duty. Is your duty to dig [into the matter] to destroy the party? Answer my question!'' And imagine, the man aspires to become the next prime minister.

- Veera Prateepchaikul, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Commentary

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/News/12Nov2007_news20.php

[hammered]

If questions are too tough, go home

The remark will be long remembered: ''The UN is not my father!'' It came from the mouth of then-PM Thaksin Shinawatra who appeared annoyed by reporters who questioned him persistently about a United Nations report about alleged human rights abuses during his regime. Thaksin was known not to be on good terms with the media, especially the print media which he often treated with contempt. And when he was pestered with questions not to his liking he sometimes lost his cool and shot back, demanding to know which publications they represented. It was widely known Thaksin's dislike of the media, in particular media critical of his administration, was not limited to harsh words for reporters. Advertising by long-time clients suddenly disappeared. In serious cases, multi-million-baht defamation lawsuits were lodged against media critics. But Thaksin's contempt for the media pales when compared to his heir, Samak Sundaravej, leader of the TRT's incarnation, the PPP. By design or coincidence, his choice of Samak to pursue his unfinished legacy couldn't be more appropriate. Both Thaksin and Samak have at least one thing in common, they dislike the media. Samak also ridiculed the other reporters, saying that at their age their experience was no match for his.To quote Samak: ''Again, another one. Do you want to trap me? No way. Count your ages first. How old are the three of you? What is your duty? I have my duty. Is your duty to dig [into the matter] to destroy the party? Answer my question!'' And imagine, the man aspires to become the next prime minister.

- Veera Prateepchaikul, Deputy Editor-in-Chief, Commentary

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/News/12Nov2007_news20.php

Well one wonders what exactly Mr. samak's duty is. One wonders whether one may enquirea s to what the duty entaailed. But far more fun would be to imagine what it consists of ourselves.

[sriracha john]

Leena's such a "colorful figure"....

Video Link: http://www.sukadee-leenajang.com/all/spot.wmv

It'd be a shame if she gets omitted from the race...

Her cosmetic line, the "Hi-So Leena" brand that she hawks online includes her topless posing with her "ample qualifications" proudly displayed on one her product's packaging:

http://www.hi-soleena.com/milk/index.html *Warning: contains nudity, albeit not graphic*

is particularly colorful....

Leena to sue party leader Prachai

It looks like Leena Jangjanja is intent on giving Matchima Thipataya party leader Prachai Leohapairatana a hard time for not fielding her in the election. She is said to be preparing to file charges against Prachai, asking for one billion baht in financial compensation. Leena Jangjanja - a former Bangkok governor candidate, disqualified for sponsoring a parade with scantily-clad girls - told reporters Prachai’s party had annulled a document approving her as an eligible candidate to contest the upcoming general election. She also claimed to have been offered one million baht by the party in exchange of her decision not to contest the election. According to her, she had already refused the offer. Suthipol Thaweechaikarn, Secretary-General of the Election Commission (EC), declined to comment much on the case, stating that EC regulations usually applied in cases where political parties attempted to bribe candidates into running in the election race. “There has never been a case in which the party attempted to bribe a candidate not to contest the election so we will have to examine Ms Leena’s d

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/b...s.php?id=123499

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examine her what????

Edited November 12, 2007 by sriracha john

[hammered]

ABAC Poll: 67% believe vote-buying costs Bt350 each

BANGKOK, Nov 11 (TNA) - About two-thirds of respondents in Bangkok and surrounding areas in a recent poll believe that buying votes in the upcoming general election would cost about Bt350 each.

The survey, conducted by Assumption University's ABAC Poll November 8-10 among 1,631 people living in Bangkok and outlying areas, found that two-thirds of respondents being certain that vote-buying practices would be seen in their constituencies. They even speculated that an average payment on vote-buying would be about Bt350.

According to the survey, only 67 per cent of the respondents knew that the election would be held on December 23 while almost 33 per cent had no idea at all.

As many as 60.6 per cent of those polled are now living outside constituencies where they can cast votes, according to the poll. (TNA) - E111

From TNA: http://enews.mcot.net/view.php?id=1275

The vote buying stuff is as expected but the truly anmazing bit is 60+% live outsdie the constituency they get to vote in. Without speculating on the cost of travel or the willingness of this group to actaully go and vote, it does beg the major question of how MPs based so far away from them will ever represent them, or even care about their existence. Not one academic, party, official or anyone else for that matter seems to see the problem asociaterd with having people vote where they are tioes to a piece of land rather than where they work or actually reside. And this if teh poll is accurate this is most of the voters. Maybe constitutional/democratic reform would be better served trying to address this issue of changing demogasrphic although obviously none of the curretn set of polticos from any party would benfit from such a move so it is highly unlikely. Mass disenfrachisement seems to be the order of the day.

[sriracha john]

Samak's response to the the Thai Journalists Association from 5 posts up.... "Thank You"

Hit me more and we'll sweep House seats: Samak

People Power Party Leader Samak Sundaravej challenged the media to attack him more, saying the attacks would help boost the popularity of his party to win the December 23 election.

He said the more the media professional organizations hit him, the more likely that his party would sweep the majority of House seats.

"They should continue to batter me if they do not fear that my party will win more than half of House seats," Samak said.

"I would like to thank the Reporters Association of Thailand and other media organizations for hitting me. I sincerely thank them because their attacks helped boost my party's popularity," Samak talked to a reporter aired on TV at the Thai-Japanese Youth Centre Stadium.

- The Nation

Edited November 12, 2007 by sriracha john

[sriracha john]

Constituency-based Candidate Registration Begins Today

All provincial halls and candidate registration venues across the country were packed with politicians and constituency-based candidates this morning, as today officially marks the first of five days for constituency-based candidate registration.

Following last week’s launch of candidate registration for the proportional representation system, constituency-based candidates of all twenty political parties nationwide are getting set for a race to parliament, as constituency registration starts off today.

The constituency registration for Bangkok is held at the Thai-Japanese Youth Center’s Stadium in Din Daeng, the same venue where last week’s party-list registration took place.

Key leaders of major political parties arrived early this morning with their party candidates, as crowds of supporters and reporters were waiting at the stadium to greet them.

Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva arrived with his party candidates at 6:00 am, where reporters rushed to his car for an immediate interview.

Following Abhisit’s arrival, Chart Thai Party deputy leader Korn Dabarangsi (TRT Non-Banned #7), who defected from the Pracharaj Party earlier this month, came into the stadium with another deputy leader, Paveena Hongsakul, who led a team of Chart Thai candidates to register.

*Paveena was, like Leena above, a candidate before in the 2004 race for Bangkok Governor, although I don't believe she takes her clothes off*

Paveena claimed that her party would definitely win in Bangkok’s Constituency 5, which includes Sai Mai and Don Meung districts, areas where she along with her younger brother, Chamadol Hongsakul and Janista Liewchalermwong, a former TV show host would run.

*Janista was no slouch in the looks' department as a model*

People Power Party Leader Samak Sundaravej led a team of his party candidates into the stadium around 7 a.m., which included veteran politician, Chalerm Yoobamrung, Yuranan Phamornmontree, a renowned actor and former member of the dissolved Thai Rak Thai party,

*one of Yuranan's (upper right) romance-movie posters from 1991*

*a more recent TRT campaign poster from 2006*

Danuporn Punnakan, a famous Thai elite,

*Dannuporn was also an actor with this movie poster (upper right) from 2000*

*a more recent Dannuporn campaigning as the TRT candidate*

former actress Leelawadee Watcharobol, popular singer Arisman Pongruangrong,

*a couple of Arisman's music CD covers*

and two other well-known politicians, Wattana Sengphairoj and Charlermchai Mahakijsiri.

Meanwhile, Leena Janjanya, who was disqualified for staging a lively campaign of cabarets and dance shows during the last Bangkok governor’s election, came into the stadium with her supporters at around 5:30 a.m. this morning to stage a protest against the Matchima Thipatai Party for refusing to field her as a party candidate as promised.

*just one more of the colorful Leena*

She threatened to publicize a document which could defame the reputation of party leader Prachai Leophairat if the party continues with its decision to withdraw her from the race.

Reportedly, all political parties submitted their applications before 8:30 a.m., as candidacy numbers for each of the 12 constituencies were drawn.

However, every political party agreed to use the same number for the party in all constituencies, but the Election Commission warned that there will still be technicality problems.

According to Din Daeng police station’s deputy traffic police chief Pol Lt Col Somphote Thassana, traffic congestion around the area, especially on Din Daeng Road was expected to continue throughout the morning hours, which he warned vehicles not to park on the road from 6 a.m. to noon.

On a similar development, provincial halls nationwide were quite active, especially in Nakhon Ratchasima, where constituency candidates of the People Power Party (PPP) and the New Aspiration Party arrived at the registration venue early, as crowds of supporters were staging a long drum performance at the compound to greet their favored politicians.

Meanwhile, the registration in Chiang Mai was held at the Chiang Mai Municipality Stadium.

Reportedly, candidates at the stadium were stunned this morning, as one of the PPP’s candidates, Surapong Towichakchaikul arrived at the stadium wearing a face mask depicting deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

He claimed that he was symbolically accompanied by the deposed Prime Minister to register.

Registration in Chiang Rai at the Rajabhat Chiang Rai University began before 8 a.m. this morning, as supporters of political parties exceeded 1,000 each.

Supporters of the Chart Thai party had lighted up the scene, as most were hill tribe people in their traditional costumes had been stationed at the venue with continuous long drums performances.

- Thailand Outlook

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gotta luv Thai politics...