Thailand's Parliament Convenes First Session Since 2006 Coup

[ando]

I think it's a groundless theory.

Nor the coupmakers nor any particular party high up there had anything to gain from the coup, and, in the end, they haven't gained anything at all.

The main reason was the inevitable confrontation between the government and anti-Thaksin movement, the confrontation that could have been very bloody indeed. That needed to be avoided at any cost, in coup makers view.

Ok, there was no immediate violence yet, but there was no "democratic" solution in sight either.

Respectfully disagree, the junta hasn't gained MUCH because I still believe until proved wrong that western powers didn't allow them to stay longer. But they still managed to negotiate future spending for the army that will allow them to gain substantial commission. Also a couple of position in the board of some of the most important companies. It isn't much but far from negligible.

Well it's a free world, you can believe anything, but personally I don't see any signs of 'western powers' having forced an end to the junta. It has more to do with honourable military men, loyal to the Head of State if not any politician, who claimed they took power to defend what remained of Thai democracy, and then handed it back on-schedule after elections as promised, which suggests that was indeed their aim.

I also never subscribed to the suggestion that there was a Moslem or Al-qaeda plot, to take control of the country, although the idea was floated, based I imagine on the religion of the coup-leader. Paranoid if you ask me !

Do you have any particular western powers in mind, who were behind the end, to the military caretaker-government ?

OMG! Talk about going off on tangents and red herrings?

The coup was a blatant attempt to manipulate democracy with the intent of disenfranchising the majority of the countries voters in favour of the old ruling class elite minority. That's how it has been seen by virtually all pundits in the international media (that BTW are not controlled by the Thai military). In this respect, the coup was a miserable failure in that they did not succeed in gaining political power for their preferred party, -- being the Democrats.

Certainly, we have to give some credit to the generals in as much as they kept their word that they would not maintain political control indefinitely at the point of a gun. In fact, I am sure they are glad to be out of the hot seat after their miserable performance in government.

[Ricardo]

In fact, I am sure they are glad to be out of the hot seat after their miserable performance in government.

Agreed, who wouldn't be glad, to get out from under, they clearly weren't at-ease in-power ? And I share your oft-stated hope that we won't be seeing them back again. If Thailand can manage more-fair elections in future.

But who were the 'western powers' who forced them out ? Any ideas ??

Edited January 30, 2008 by Ricardo

[Jai Dee]

PPP Secretary-General to submit draft of Cabinet to PM

Secretary-General of the People Power Party Doctor Surapong Suebwonglee (สุรพงษ์ สืบวงศ์ลี) has assured his readiness to submit the drafting of names to be considered for the new government’s Cabinet to newly appointed Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej.

Dr Surapong stated that in this initial draft, each Cabinet position contains more than one name as to leave room for consideration. The People Power Party Secretary-General also revealed that many versions of the draft and polls speculating on who take which position are false as the government has not released such information.

Mr. Samak will have the final say on which names are submitted for royal approval by His Majesty the King as well as when the names will be submitted. The Cabinet members must pass royal scrutiny before officially assuming their positions.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 30 January 2008

[Jai Dee]

Deputy PPP Leader denies negotiating for the position of Deputy PM of Internal Security

Deputy Leader of the People Power Party General Ruangroj Mahasaranont (เรืองโรจน์ มหาศรานนท์) commented on progress made in the selection of ministers for the Cabinet. General Ruangroj affirmed that he himself has not discussed any ministerial position as rumors have implied that he has negotiated for the seat of Deputy Prime Minister taking charge of Internal Security.

Nonetheless, General Ruangroj revealed that the People Power Party will hold a meeting today to discuss general policies for the administration of the nation. He expects the meeting to be an amalgamation of other policies and strategies raised by other parties within the coalition and that a formal press conference will be arranged.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 30 January 2008

[Jai Dee]

Deputy Leader of PPP says that party ministerial positions are complete

Deputy Leader of the People Power Party Somchai Wongsawas (สมชาย วงศ์สวัสดิ์) commented that according to law, Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej has the right to take on the extra position of Minister of Defense. Mr. Somchai also hinted that the list of potential minister contains a few names of people outside the party, but he believes that once the names are made public they will build support from citizens.

Mr. Somchai admitted that though some of the names on his party’s list were relatively unknown he believed that all the selections are capable people that will be of use to the nation. He stated that each person own credentials would instill confidence in the public.

The deputy leader affirmed that the list will be completed within today.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 30 January 2008

[Jai Dee]

EC approves 3 additional MPs

Election Commission (EC) Secretary-General Suthipol Taweechaikarn (สุทธิพล ทวีชัยการ) revealed after yesterday’s EC meeting that the commission has ordered a by-election in Constituency 1 of Prachinburi province after the provinces winner from the Matchima Thipathai party received complaints of irregularity.

The EC also approved the results of a by-election in Constituency 1 of Chai Nat province, approving Matchima Thipathai MP candidate Porntiwa Nakasai (พรทิวา นาคาศัย), Chaiwat Sapwongthong (ชัยวัฒน์ ทรัพย์รวงทอง) of the People Power Party and additional candidate. A total tally of Parliament members fully approved by the EC stands at 480 individuals.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 30 January 2008

[Plus]

The coup was a blatant attempt to manipulate democracy with the intent of disenfranchising the majority of the countries voters in favour of the old ruling class elite minority. That's how it has been seen by virtually all pundits in the international media.

What I am saying is that this theory is groundless. The junta has come and gone and the theory still just a figment of imagination. It has not supporting evidence whatsoever.

So much for those "pundits".

And the idea that the generals weren't given enough time by international powers (to manifest their true, devious nature) is just a lame excuse to justify an obviously wrong precept.

People alleged the ulterior motives, and then they try to find alleged reasons why the alleged plans failed.

It's all in your head.

[ando]

The coup was a blatant attempt to manipulate democracy with the intent of disenfranchising the majority of the countries voters in favour of the old ruling class elite minority. That's how it has been seen by virtually all pundits in the international media.

What I am saying is that this theory is groundless. The junta has come and gone and the theory still just a figment of imagination. It has not supporting evidence whatsoever.

So much for those "pundits".

And the idea that the generals weren't given enough time by international powers (to manifest their true, devious nature) is just a lame excuse to justify an obviously wrong precept.

People alleged the ulterior motives, and then they try to find alleged reasons why the alleged plans failed.

It's all in your head.

Your opinion only. And a lonely one at that when included with international media observers outside the control of the Thai military.

[Pierrot]

In fact, I am sure they are glad to be out of the hot seat after their miserable performance in government.

Agreed, who wouldn't be glad, to get out from under, they clearly weren't at-ease in-power ? And I share your oft-stated hope that we won't be seeing them back again. If Thailand can manage more-fair elections in future.

But who were the 'western powers' who forced them out ? Any ideas ??

Switzerland jumps to mind ...

More seriously, read the international press. The EU and USA always made their opinion clear, they have enough trouble to get rid of the junta in Myanmar, they do not need a second military dictature. Thailand has always been the poster child for democracy in S E Asia and they strongly expect it will stay this way . And what the US strongly expect, they usually get ...

[sriracha john]

Matchima Holds Breath for EC Ruling on Electoral Fraud Charge

The Matchima Thipataya Party is holding its breath to hear how its political future will turn out, following the much-awaited ruling from the election watchdog on its electoral fraud charge.

Matchima Thipataya Deputy Leader Banyin Tangpaporn said that the party is waiting patiently for the Election Commission investigation into its alleged electoral law violation.

If found guilty, the party could be accordingly disbanded.

The EC is expected to come up with the ruling this week. Previously, the election watchdog already disqualified its party executive Sunthorn Wilawan for violating election law.

Banyin added that the party would accept the EC ruling without dispute, as long as every detail has been deliberated in accordance with the code of laws. However, he is confident that the Matchima Thipaya Party has done everything correctly, without violating any laws.

The Deputy Party Leader conceded that Matchima Thipataya Secretary-General Anongwan Thepsuthin is coordinating with the six-party coalition government on the allocation of two ministerial portfolios of his party.

Banyin also asked the EC to confirm the legal status of former party leader Prachai Leophairatana in order to allow the party to move on with its business, without having to wait for much longer.

- Thailand Outlook

[John K]

Ando, your reference to international media in post #361, links please. Also while you are at it there is a recent thread that talks about elephants in the streets that was clearly written by a journalist who has never been here and made a fair attempt and dumping on Bangkok. I also think there is a similar thread in the general section that has reference to a youtube that is also widely acclaimed in the same way. The point I am making is the further away you are the less detail is visible. If there was something that happened in New York I would look at the New York Times and not the Nation or Bangkok post. With the wonderful technology of the internet, all this is possible. Also being here in Bangkok, I don’t need to have the media tell what the people think when I can go out and talk to them myself.

[Ricardo]

I think it's a groundless theory.

Nor the coupmakers nor any particular party high up there had anything to gain from the coup, and, in the end, they haven't gained anything at all.

The main reason was the inevitable confrontation between the government and anti-Thaksin movement, the confrontation that could have been very bloody indeed. That needed to be avoided at any cost, in coup makers view.

Ok, there was no immediate violence yet, but there was no "democratic" solution in sight either.

Respectfully disagree, the junta hasn't gained MUCH because I still believe until proved wrong that western powers didn't allow them to stay longer. But they still managed to negotiate future spending for the army that will allow them to gain substantial commission. Also a couple of position in the board of some of the most important companies. It isn't much but far from negligible.

Well it's a free world, you can believe anything, but personally I don't see any signs of 'western powers' having forced an end to the junta. It has more to do with honourable military men, loyal to the Head of State if not any politician, who claimed they took power to defend what remained of Thai democracy, and then handed it back on-schedule after elections as promised, which suggests that was indeed their aim.

I also never subscribed to the suggestion that there was a Moslem or Al-qaeda plot, to take control of the country, although the idea was floated, based I imagine on the religion of the coup-leader. Paranoid if you ask me !

Do you have any particular western powers in mind, who were behind the end, to the military caretaker-government ?

In fact, I am sure they are glad to be out of the hot seat after their miserable performance in government.

Agreed, who wouldn't be glad, to get out from under, they clearly weren't at-ease in-power ? And I share your oft-stated hope that we won't be seeing them back again. If Thailand can manage more-fair elections in future.

But who were the 'western powers' who forced them out ? Any ideas ??

Switzerland jumps to mind ...

More seriously, read the international press. The EU and USA always made their opinion clear, they have enough trouble to get rid of the junta in Myanmar, they do not need a second military dictature. Thailand has always been the poster child for democracy in S E Asia and they strongly expect it will stay this way . And what the US strongly expect, they usually get ...

I accept that the USA & EU had an opinion, what I find laughable is the idea, that it was some action by un-named western powers, that 'didn't allow them to stay longer'. Where is the evidence for this ?

The west has done very little about Burma or Zimbabwe, which are much more serious situations, except spout sympathetic words. In Thailand they had a military-nominated caretaker-government, which was steadily & peacefully moving along a pre-announced path to return to democracy, so all the 'western powers' had to do, was let them get on with it. As I would suggest they indeed did.

I don't think the 'western powers' could have done much here, I asked for any evidence that they had, to support

Pierrot's assertion that they did, and thus far have only the joke-suggestion that Switzerland were behind it all and the obvious statement that the USA/EU disapproved in theory of the coup.

There is a long way between mild-disapproval, and un-named 'western powers' taking firm actions, which 'didn't allow them to stay longer'. So far - I see no evidence that the West did anything to force the junta's hand, nor that they ever felt the need to try.

[Old Man River]

As a strong suporter of Mr Thaksin, I want here to thanks The Nation for its help. I can't remember one day in the past year where Thaksin name didn't appear in the front page. They really made sure we didn't forget the man. And their Thaksin bashing trademark was so obvious that it became soon ridiculous.

At the same time, can anybody tell me what is the platform of the "democrat", what they stand for? Beside being against Thaksin of course? Me neither.

There is two projects that summarize why I welcome the return of Mr Thaksin :the new airport and the Hopeless project leading to Don Muang. Thaksin get things done, and that's more than enough for me.

Unfortunately, too many people that supported the PPP were, like yourself, clueless about what the other parties were saying. Certainly, the PPP knew this and now make comments (concerning capital controls) such as: ''We did say in our campaign platform we want to scrap this policy but now we are in the government. We have to be careful about what we say or do,'' Dr Surapong said.

In other words, tell them what they want to hear and then once elected we can do differently. Since they didn't think things out it is no wonder that Samak refused to debate the issues.

Yes, many of us can tell you what the Democrats policies were as they were the first to issue them and put it on their website. At least those that cared to know the issues, instead of blindly electing a group who readily admits they now need to think things out. To give you an example, for capital controls, the PPP said abolish them (but are now reneging) , the Demo's said abolish them and the Chart Thai said they wanted to review them. For the Rural Economy, the PPP said give, give, give (deficit spending), while the Demo's said increase farmer's incomes by increases in productivity and the Chart Thai said focus on debt and land problems for farmers. There are certainly more, and I am sure if you are really interested you can find them.

Thank you for answering my question ... and making my point.

"I am sure if you are really interested you can find them (Democrats policies)". I don't really care about american election but I know what every candidate stand for. Because that's what election are about, to let people know what you stand for. But "democrats" were not interested in campaigning, they failed miserably the couple of last time they tried.

Then you talked about "capital control", the "Rural Economy" (with capital letter ???). Definitely you're a "democrat" (other countries spell it "technocrat"). Real people care about local economy, healthcare, education ...Thaksin answer these questions, "democrats" don't even understand them.

But the worst is "democrats" think they are smarters than everybody else, and they loudly let it know. Then they expect that people they overtly despised will vote them in office.

"democrats" should now do the honorable thing : political suicide. If they still remember what honour means.

I try to be nice to people on these forums. However, you don't know me and I don't know you so don't feel free to tell me what I am and I won't do the same for you. Got that?

Without question I support the Democrats and without question they could have done better in the northeast. However, they picked up millions of votes and won 165 seats, the second most of any party running. In a democracy you have to have more than one party. You can't expect parties receiving less votes to simply dissolve themselves or we would be back to the dictatorship we just left.

[Plus]

The coup was a blatant attempt to manipulate democracy with the intent of disenfranchising the majority of the countries voters in favour of the old ruling class elite minority. That's how it has been seen by virtually all pundits in the international media.

What I am saying is that this theory is groundless. The junta has come and gone and the theory still just a figment of imagination. It has not supporting evidence whatsoever.

So much for those "pundits".

And the idea that the generals weren't given enough time by international powers (to manifest their true, devious nature) is just a lame excuse to justify an obviously wrong precept.

People alleged the ulterior motives, and then they try to find alleged reasons why the alleged plans failed.

It's all in your head.

Your opinion only. And a lonely one at that when included with international media observers outside the control of the Thai military.

Unlike those international media observers my opinion is based on available facts, otherwise opinions are like <deleted>.

Instead of counting them, could you provide some facts for that "elites took power from the people" reason for the coup? Considering that people never had any power under TRT in the first place it seems like a lost proposition. Considering that the junta allowed the banned party to regroup and win the elections it seems like a lost proposition. Considering that a muslim and son of a communist come to represent the elites, it seems like a lost proposition. Considering that a coup had no chance of success without massive popular support, and not just "minority elites", it seems like a lost proposition.

It makes a good material for endless conspiracy theories but has no legs on its own.

[Jai Dee]

Coup leader calls ousted PM; assures support for coalition

General Sonthi Boonyaratkalin, former chairman of the Council for National Security (CNS), admitted on Wednesday he had had telephone discussions with the man whom he ousted from power in the September 2006 bloodless coup, giving him an assurance of his full support to the new coalition government.

Speaking to journalists upon his return from a Middle East trip at Suvarnabhumi Airport, the coup leader disclosed that he telephoned ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra at the request of a "non-partisan mediator" who wanted Thailand's national stability to be restored.

"It was a discussion without any political conditions attached," said the coup leader. "The new coalition government will be assured of my full support."

He said that the telephone conversation took place before the wife of Mr. Thaksin, Khunying Pojaman, returned to Thailand in early January.

It was the junta leader's first comment in public since the December 23 general election which the People Power Party (PPP), linked to the former prime minister, won the most seats, followed by the election of its leader, Samak Sundaravej, as the country's 25th prime minister on Monday.

The deposed prime minister, who has been living in exile abroad following the 2006 military coup, had earlier insisted he would come back after the election and the new government formed. His wife said last week he would return to fight corruption charges in May.

Genl Sonthi toppled Thaksin's administration, accusing the telecom billionaire-cum-politician of corruption and of disloyalty to the king.

The general insisted that the coup was not a failure, and that he had no fear of being targeted for revenge after the old power clique under Mr. Thaksin makes a comeback.

"Whether or not the coup was a failure is up to the public and the government to review 'the lesson', but In his view, Gen Sonthi said, the mission has been accomplished with the formation of the new government."

The now retired general did not reveal anything regarding his future plans following the departure from office this week of the military-appointed Surayud Chulanont government, with Gen. Sonthi himself most lately as deputy prime minister.

Source: TNA - 30 January 2008

[ando]

Considering that a coup had no chance of success without massive popular support, and not just "minority elites", it seems like a lost proposition.

The coup never did have "massive popular support" and certainly was NOT a success. When it was put to a democratic vote, all be it after 15 months of political interference by the military, the popular support was still for the ousted leader and his political ideals as demonstrated in the most recent elections.

If you consider that the PAD demonstrations at their peak numbered 100,000 people and represented a minuscule 0.3% of eligible voters concentrated in the heartland of the Democrat opposition, it hardly represents -- "massive popular support". The coup was NEVER at any stage supported by a majority of Thai voters as the term --- "massive popular support', would wrongly seem to indicate.

As for what you mean by "having no chance of success without massive popular support", I have to wonder exactly what you mean there. If you mean the actual seizing of political power under force of arms, you are very sadly mistaken there. Popular or not, any civilian government would have no recourse but to accept defeat when confronted by soldiers armed with guns and tanks. If you are talking about the military coup ousting the peoples choice of government and installing the Democrats as their preferred choice, that too would have to be deemed as a dismal failure when the people were actually given a chance to show their "popular support" through the democratic process.

Did the coup have "massive popular support"? NO it certainly didn't. One should not interpret the lack of physical opposition to a military regime, armed and ready to commit murder, as support. And one should not interpret the fact that a few people in the political heartland of government opposition welcoming the soldiers with garlands of flowers as an indication that the majority of voters through out the country had given their "massive popular support".

Certainly, the military coup in Bangkok was indeed a media coup in the way it appeared in the media, but when put to the democratic vote of ALL the people of Thailand it has to be said that the coup failed to achieve its major objective of changing government. Although they did achieve major pay rises for themselves, massively increased government funding for themselves, and a constitution that guarantees them amnesty for their crimes and the option to legally take over government again any time they please. All this non-result is at the expense of the Thai people whose economy has been severely damaged by this political turmoil and a year of economic mismanagement created by the generals. No wonder the generals are promising-- "no more coups" and have disappeared back into the political shadows to count their loot.

[Jai Dee]

Ministers urge new government to work for nation

Deputy Prime Minister Paiboon Wattanasiritham (ไพบูลย์ วัฒนศิริธรรม) revealed that this Friday (February 1) he will serve his position in the military erected government for the final day and he will make merit before the Government House’s sacred statues. Mr. Paiboon commented that he will return to doing social work while also saying that he urges the incoming government to work justly and in a unified manner for the benefit of the public.

Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office Khunying Thipawadee Maeksawan (ทิพาวดี เมฆสวรรค์) has chosen today as her final day of duty while Minister of Defense Chanchai Likitjitha (ชาญชัย ลิขิตจิตถะ) has taken a leave of absence until the new government has taken its place. Mr. Chanchai will serve as the Chief of Defense after a minister is sent to replace him.

Prime Minister General Surayud Chulanont has traveled to Petchaburi province to conduct duties.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 31 January 2008

[Jai Dee]

Deputy Secretary-General of PPP updates on progress of policies

Deputy Secretary-General of the People Power Party Noppadol Pattama (นพดล ปัทมะ) revealed to the press his party has ceased discussions on the matter of ministerial positions that selections for the Cabinet have come to a halt. He stated that other parties within the coalition government have submitted their selections with only Matchima Thipathai still considering its submission. The People Power Party has chosen to allow Matchima Thipathai to take time on the matter to avoid uncertainties in the future. Nonetheless, Mr. Noppadol assured that the matter of ministers will be concluded in the coming days with the approval of His Majesty the King.

The Deputy Secretary-General also revealed that his party’s outlining of general policies is 90 percent complete. He stated that many policies that were previously dropped by the recent administration will be returned such as the Village Fund, Lottery, and CEO Local Administrators. He said that a coalition hearing has been scheduled for tomorrow.

Mr. Noppadol also said that the party has set priorities for several urgent issues such as the Southern unrest, slumping economy and funding for several mega projects.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 31 January 2008

[Jai Dee]

Mr. Noppadol says there is a possibility he may become Foreign Minister

Deputy Secretary-General of the People Power Party and attorney to deposed Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra Noppadol Pattama (นพดล ปัทมะ) answered questions posed by the press on whether or not he was being considered for the post of Minister of Foreign Affairs, saying that the matter would be clarified in the coming days.

Mr. Noppadol admitted that there was a possibility he would take up the position in the Cabinet but stated that he could neither confirm nor deny the speculation as the party wishes to make the list of ministers known only after it receives royal approval. He said also that as the matter is not concluded, there is no certainty as to who will receive which position.

Nonetheless, Mr. Noppadol who served as a liaison between former premier Thaksin and the nation's Supreme Court while Mr. Thaksin was living in self-imposed exile avowed to work at his duty to the utmost of his ability regardless of what position he achieved in the Cabinet, if any.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 31 January 2008

[Jai Dee]

Democrat to set up shadow government

Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva announced on Thursday his party will set up "shadow government" to monitor Samak coalition's performance.

Abhisit made the announcement on the first day of his party's seminar in Chon Buri.

"Our party members will be selected to work along every ministry of Samak Sundaravej," he said. His government will not only criticise the Samak government's performance and handling of problems but also propose solutions to those problems.

The setting up of the shadow government is common practice of many countries, he said.

Source: The Nation - 31 January 2008

[Plus]

Considering that a coup had no chance of success without massive popular support, and not just "minority elites", it seems like a lost proposition.

The coup never did have "massive popular support" and certainly was NOT a success...

I don't know what you are on about. Popular support for the coup was never disputed even by anti-coup activists. In fact "democracy loving" Thais had to organise panel discussions to discuss why the coup was so popular.

If you want to qualify or quantify that support consider the facts:

- Post coup opinion polls with 80% approval which never questioned by anybody, including coup critics.

- Lots of highly respected people taking various roles in post coup National Assembly, though some stayed away.

- There were far more flower garland people than anti-coup protesters.

- Even Sonthi himself acknolwedged he wouldn't be able to pull it off without popular support.

- Admission of coup popularity by various leftists themselves

Most people just let the junta get on with their jobs, what was done was done, it seemed ok at the moment, only few obsessed fanatics still keep banging on about "lost democracy".

Then there are millions of people upcountry who didn't really care one way or another.

When it was put to a democratic vote, all be it after 15 months of political interference by the military, the popular support was still for the ousted leader and his political ideals as demonstrated in the most recent elections...

That's the sign of success, not failure - they "returned" democracy and let people choose their own government.

PAD demonstrations at their peak numbered 100,000 people and represented a minuscule 0.3% of eligible voters concentrated in the heartland of the Democrat opposition

The PAD support manifested in April elections, in nearly fourteen million NO votes. That's a lot more than 0.3% of population.

Anti-coup protests, on the other hand, attracted two three hundred people. Why don't you apply the same logic and count their percentage when you talk about opposition to the junta.

[Jai Dee]

PPP revives Thaksin policies

Thaksin Shinawatra is not back in Thailand yet, but already many of the projects he initiated when he was prime minister are taking on new life. Several projects scrapped by the military government following the ouster of Mr Thaksin in September, 2006 are already being revived, said deputy secretary-general of the People Power party (PPP) Noppadon Pattama.

"We have completed drafting the new government's policies and up to 90 per cent are those that were scrapped after Mr Thaksin's forced departure," said Mr Noppadon. "Some of these include the Small Medium Large village fund scheme (SML), the government (two- and three-digit) lottery and the CEO governer scheme."

More from the Bnagkok Post here.

[John K]

Samak backs down

People Power leader bows to party pressure on appointments; sources say reshuffle likely after six months

New Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej completed his Cabinet line-up yesterday by yielding to pressure from the party's financiers to make appointments with which he is unhappy, a source said.

Meanwhile, the People Power Party today will meet with other coalition partners to discuss joint policies for their administration.

The final Cabinet line-up would see Samak double as the defence minister. There will be no deputy minister as a team of retired generals and defence experts would serve as Samak's advisers at the Defence Ministry, according to the source.

After much power wrestling within Samak's PPP, Santi Promphat will become the transport minister. He is a trusted aide to former transport minister Pongsak Ruktapongpisal, a former Thai Rak Thai executive who is banned from politics. Pongsak is also known as a party financier.

Samak earlier was unhappy with candidates for the transport, education and energy portfolios.

Somchai Wongsawat, brother-in-law of ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra, will serve as the education minister, in addition to deputy premier, according to the source. Anusorn Wongwan, the original candidate for the education portfolio, would serve as culture minister.

Samak's close aide Teerapol Noprumpa said yesterday that it would take a few days to check the qualifications of the proposed ministers. He expected the Cabinet list to be submitted for Royal endorsement next week.

Another People Power source said the party leaders formed the present Cabinet under an agreement to have a reshuffle in the next four to six months.

A Samak 2 Cabinet would see more outsiders and the party's financiers as ministers if the Constitution Court issues a ruling on laws to prevent conflict of interest in a way that does not block the chance of financiers from assuming ministerial posts.

Former PM's office minister Theerapat Serirangsan had initiated a law against conflict of interest.

The former 111 executives of the disbanded Thai Rak Thai Party who were banned from politics for five years may also get to be secretaries or advisor to ministers, despite public opposition. If that is the case, it is likely that Thaksin will be an advisor to the government.

In a related development, People Power deputy secretary-general Noppadon Pattama will table a 46-page national policy draft at a morning meeting with the newly-formed government at Sukhothai Hotel today, a party source said yesterday.

Noppadon yesterday chaired a meeting of the working team on national policies.

Some of the content in the original draft was altered and re-prioritised at the meeting, the source said.

It now consists of seven strategies and 17 policies that seek to ensure that all agencies will work together harmoniously.

Emergency policies in the draft could be promptly employed as they were derived from poll results on what the public considered the most pressing issues facing the country.

The government should immediately tackle issues such as national reconciliation, economic problems such as income distribution to provincial folk, drug abuse and unrest in the South.

Earlier, Noppadon announced the party had drawn up a national policy draft to be announced before Parliament. The party will maintain the type of policies that had taken the now disbanded Thai Rak Thai Party to its height as a populist group.

These policies include the Village Fund, education loans, the two- and three-digit lotteries, CEO governors, debt moratorium, village banks, the "million cattle" project and the war on drugs.

Piyanart Srivalo,

Samatcha Hunsara

The Nation

We have all heard of the 2 bullets in the head suicides, I believe this is the first example of a 111 bullet suicide.

[John K]

There looks to be a very dangerous game the PPP is playing here. If they want to bring in the 111 banned back in some capacity, I think that would require a certain signature from someone who can’t be discussed in this forum. That would play the signature against the constitutional tribunal thus setting some standard that nobody dare challenge. If that is the case then there is pure manipulation and foolery going on at a level that can only further divide the country. The ramifications of that would insulate the PPP from nearly everything including a coup. This had to come from Thaksin himself because it is a brilliant tactical move if he can pull it off.

[sriracha john]

Resignation was valid: EC

Prachai Leophairatana is no longer Leader of the Matchima Thipataya Party, the Election Commission (EC) ruled yesterday.

However, he could be re-elected to the post when the party calls a meeting within 45 days, EC member Sodsri Satayathum said.

The EC ruled that Prachai lost his post on December 4 when he submitted a resignation letter to the Party's Registrar. Prachai changed his mind a few days later.

The EC ruling comes ahead of the announcement of the Cabinet line-up for the coalition government led by People Power Party (PPP), expected either today or tomorrow.

It is expected to pave the way for the Matchima faction under the leadership of Secretary-General Anongwan Thepsuthin to nominate candidates for ministerial positions without having to first consult Prachai.

After learning of the EC decision, Prachai said he was like a kindergarten student playing among graduates of vicious political combat.

He said he was "only at the kindergarten stage of dirty politics".

Prachai said those who kept weakening his position would soon experience a similar streak of bad luck. "I have had enough of politics," he said.

EC member Sodsri said Matchima would have to call a meeting in 45 days to elect a leader. Prachai called a few meetings of party's executives after the results of December 23 election, which showed PPP would lead the new government. He was reportedly negotiating with the PPP, hoping to take the Finance Minister's post.

However, Party Registrar and Deputy Leader Thanaporn Sriyakul disrupted a meeting on December 28 and insisted that Prachai was no longer Party Leader and therefore forfeited the right to negotiate.

Shortly afterward, Prachai again changed his mind about remaining in politics.

Thanaporn is a close aide to Anongwan, wife of influential politician Somsak Thepsuthin (TRT Banned #18). His move against Prachai reflected an internal conflict between the two groups.

- The Nation

[Plus]

The government should immediately tackle issues such as national reconciliation, economic problems such as income distribution to provincial folk, drug abuse and unrest in the South.

Whose income? Are any of the ministers taking their six-month positions going to redistribute THEIR income, or are they going to charge party financiers who are next in line to the trough.

Cabinet re-shaffle in six month doesn't bode well at all. What are they going to achieve in six months?

[chownah]

The government should immediately tackle issues such as national reconciliation, economic problems such as income distribution to provincial folk, drug abuse and unrest in the South.

Whose income? Are any of the ministers taking their six-month positions going to redistribute THEIR income, or are they going to charge party financiers who are next in line to the trough.

Cabinet re-shaffle in six month doesn't bode well at all. What are they going to achieve in six months?

I can't tell from your post if you are in favor of a cabinet re-shuffle or not....and the reasons for your opinion....can you expand on this?

Also, you say that a cabinet re-shuffle in six months "doesn't bode well". You don't say it "doesn't bode well" for what...you don't say what will suffer from a re-shuffle in six months....can you explain?

chownah

Edited February 1, 2008 by chownah

[Pierrot]

I accept that the USA & EU had an opinion, what I find laughable is the idea, that it was some action by un-named western powers, that 'didn't allow them to stay longer'. Where is the evidence for this ?

The west has done very little about Burma or Zimbabwe, which are much more serious situations, except spout sympathetic words. In Thailand they had a military-nominated caretaker-government, which was steadily & peacefully moving along a pre-announced path to return to democracy, so all the 'western powers' had to do, was let them get on with it. As I would suggest they indeed did.

I don't think the 'western powers' could have done much here, I asked for any evidence that they had, to support

Pierrot's assertion that they did, and thus far have only the joke-suggestion that Switzerland were behind it all and the obvious statement that the USA/EU disapproved in theory of the coup.

There is a long way between mild-disapproval, and un-named 'western powers' taking firm actions, which 'didn't allow them to stay longer'. So far - I see no evidence that the West did anything to force the junta's hand, nor that they ever felt the need to try.

http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/b...s.php?id=125620

"It's now easy for autocrats to get away with mounting a sham democracy," said Kenneth Roth, the group's executive director. "That's because too many Western governments insist on elections and leave it at that."

What a timing , I think it makes my point, don't you think ???

But before the usual Thaksin/PPP bashing starts, please remember the election this report refers to is the one organized by the Junta with the support of the democrats

[Pierrot]

As a strong suporter of Mr Thaksin, I want here to thanks The Nation for its help. I can't remember one day in the past year where Thaksin name didn't appear in the front page. They really made sure we didn't forget the man. And their Thaksin bashing trademark was so obvious that it became soon ridiculous.

At the same time, can anybody tell me what is the platform of the "democrat", what they stand for? Beside being against Thaksin of course? Me neither.

There is two projects that summarize why I welcome the return of Mr Thaksin :the new airport and the Hopeless project leading to Don Muang. Thaksin get things done, and that's more than enough for me.

Unfortunately, too many people that supported the PPP were, like yourself, clueless about what the other parties were saying. Certainly, the PPP knew this and now make comments (concerning capital controls) such as: ''We did say in our campaign platform we want to scrap this policy but now we are in the government. We have to be careful about what we say or do,'' Dr Surapong said.

In other words, tell them what they want to hear and then once elected we can do differently. Since they didn't think things out it is no wonder that Samak refused to debate the issues.

Yes, many of us can tell you what the Democrats policies were as they were the first to issue them and put it on their website. At least those that cared to know the issues, instead of blindly electing a group who readily admits they now need to think things out. To give you an example, for capital controls, the PPP said abolish them (but are now reneging) , the Demo's said abolish them and the Chart Thai said they wanted to review them. For the Rural Economy, the PPP said give, give, give (deficit spending), while the Demo's said increase farmer's incomes by increases in productivity and the Chart Thai said focus on debt and land problems for farmers. There are certainly more, and I am sure if you are really interested you can find them.

Thank you for answering my question ... and making my point.

"I am sure if you are really interested you can find them (Democrats policies)". I don't really care about american election but I know what every candidate stand for. Because that's what election are about, to let people know what you stand for. But "democrats" were not interested in campaigning, they failed miserably the couple of last time they tried.

Then you talked about "capital control", the "Rural Economy" (with capital letter ???). Definitely you're a "democrat" (other countries spell it "technocrat"). Real people care about local economy, healthcare, education ...Thaksin answer these questions, "democrats" don't even understand them.

But the worst is "democrats" think they are smarters than everybody else, and they loudly let it know. Then they expect that people they overtly despised will vote them in office.

"democrats" should now do the honorable thing : political suicide. If they still remember what honour means.

I try to be nice to people on these forums. However, you don't know me and I don't know you so don't feel free to tell me what I am and I won't do the same for you. Got that?

Without question I support the Democrats and without question they could have done better in the northeast. However, they picked up millions of votes and won 165 seats, the second most of any party running. In a democracy you have to have more than one party. You can't expect parties receiving less votes to simply dissolve themselves or we would be back to the dictatorship we just left.

Didn't want to waste to much time about that, but since I'm here ...

<snip>

Edited February 1, 2008 by Jai Dee
flame deleted

[Jai Dee]

PM has completed revision of ministerial selections

Secretary-General of the People Power Party Doctor Surapong Suebwonglee (สุรพงษ์ สืบวงศ์ลี) revealed that party leader and Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej has run through all the submitted selections for various ministerial positions in the new government.

Mr. Samak reviewed selections made by all parties within the coalition government, totaling 35 individuals. The premier will hand the reviewed selections to Dr Surapong for a cross check of credentials, which is expected to take 1-2 days. After the cross check is completed the selections will be submitted for royal approval by His Majesty the King.

The Chart Pattana party also confirmed that they had submitted their selections to the Prime Minister while Ruam Jai Thai Chart Pattana affirmed to the press that they have been given 2 positions despite rumors the party had lost the quota.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 01 February 2008