Democrats To Form New Coalition Government

[Old Man River]

A question bothers me. In the recent days we have heard a lot of names regarding who's going to lead the new government, people with names and people with no names ("senior figure"), but one name never appears among these power brokers, it's Abhisit. And people want us to believe he will be in charge ?

Read the news. The only thing he seems to have something to say about is the next Asean summit. Obviously the guy is out of the loop. Doesn't it bother anybody ?

Actually, he has made several comments as head of the Democratic party. However, his comments haven't been controversial amid so much else that has been going on so I guess you have missed them. Bottom line is that there are many who believe this coalition government, if it comes to fruition, is by far the better choice than a PTP led government. For the good of the country (and us all), hopefully he has a chance. We have seen the alternative and it isn't pretty.

"For the good of the country" I dont remember anybody discussing it, with the electorate.

Perhaps your right in saying that Abhisit and Newin should tell the PTP's voter base instead of assuming the electorate could figure out for themselves just how hopeless the PPP led coalition was. Hopefully, this new coalition will do a better job in communicating with the people upcountry once in office.

[hammered]

So what are the odds on the Dems pulling it off right now?

Ole Thaksin head is going to give it the big speech later.. is he going to change everything? Will Khwanchai and the boot boys of udon go mental in Bangkok or set light to a few things up round Udon way? Will ole acting PM man try a quick diso? Will the aged warlord of corrupt politcs Snoh pull a Peau Thai government out of the bag relabelled as a national unity government? Will Veera and the odious Jaturporn allow the euthanising of their little propoganda show on state run TV? They dont seem to be willing to fund a private station ala ASTV.

Oh yes what fun in the ongoing power struggle to rule Thailand for ones own self interest.

[henryalleman]

the PAD isn't about creating it is about destroying. They are soley focused on destroying Thaksin. They have no idea about what they want to create , no real vision for the country . They dont care about the mess they make . they are only indulging in their destructiveness and mob power. a bunch of irresponsible indulging fools .

And what did Thaksin created, accept his fortune?

[animatic]

the PAD isn't about creating it is about destroying. They are soley focused on destroying Thaksin. They have no idea about what they want to create , no real vision for the country . They dont care about the mess they make . they are only indulging in their destructiveness and mob power. a bunch of irresponsible indulging fools .

While I don't actually agree with any of what you write, if it was the case that they are soley focused on "destroying Thaksin" I would say Go PAD Go!

Actually, they are the only non-apathetic citizens group to get off their arse's en masse and create a sustained People's Movement since the mid-70's against govt corruption and nepotism. I wouldn't want to guess how it'll all end, but at least they have achieved much good in kicking out two Toxic stooges in the face of continuous violence and harassment from elements of the state and hired mobs. They are not saints and are a motley crue (with some bad apples amongst them), but there are reasons to be optimistic amid all the gloom and doom these days. For example, many Thais who were previously apathetic and couldn't care less about governance and politics are now a bit wiser about how the country is run (and I mean that about ordinary folks on both sides of the divide), which can only be a good thing in the longer term. However, there are many major hurdles to overome first, most immediate of which is the creation of a truly independent judiciary.

You forgot that they have lots of power and powerful backers, look down on the poor and want to get rid of democracy.

They also could care less how much they hurt Thailand or most Thai people in order to realize their evil schemes.

They belong in custody.

The only reason they seem to want to temporarily limit democracy, such as it is,

is because the Thaksin Political Machine has utterly co-opted it for his own purposes.

Not to say limiting democracy is good, but what the alternative to it has PROVED quite quite bad.

Regardless of if the rank and file has played within the system of 'top to bottom cradle to grave corruption'

in their lives, that doesn't mean they have no incentive or inclination to stand up and try and put an end to it.

If Sondhi has been the only figure head to provide a point to rally round for this end,

that is more the fault of Thailand's politics than the naiveté of the followers.

He saw a real 'market' for the idea, and it has proved viable in concept,

if not in perfection of implementation....

There has been no other 'reguarly' free speaking central pillar of anti-corruption to gather too.

It is IMPOSSIBLE to find someone in that age bracket with any kind of business success in their past,

that ISN'T tainted by corruption, no one. So railing at him for his past is fairly moot too.

Kettle/Teapot = Even Draw.

This has been far far from a perfect solution, but it HAS proved a movement towards a cleaner

functioning governmental body. Will 'CLEAN' arrive soon, doubtful, will it get a bit cleaner sooner,

I think so, perfect, by western standards doubtfully, this is more likely towards generational change,

but baby steps eventually gets there.

[ Mods, I got interupted and the above version timed out, please delete earlier version and this note. thanks].

[Samuian]

So what are the odds on the Dems pulling it off right now?

Ole Thaksin head is going to give it the big speech later.. is he going to change everything? Will Khwanchai and the boot boys of udon go mental in Bangkok or set light to a few things up round Udon way? Will ole acting PM man try a quick diso? Will the aged warlord of corrupt politcs Snoh pull a Peau Thai government out of the bag relabelled as a national unity government? Will Veera and the odious Jaturporn allow the euthanising of their little propoganda show on state run TV? They dont seem to be willing to fund a private station ala ASTV.

Oh yes what fun in the ongoing power struggle to rule Thailand for ones own self interest.

There is nothing to worry, the watchdog is still at guard!

"The Nation" Today:

"The PAD absolutely opposes the installation of a Pheu Thai puppet prime minister or any prime minister allowing Pheu Thai to be part of the coalition government," it said in the statement.

It lashed out at alleged attempts to offer monetary incentives for MPs to vote in favour of the Pheu Thai-led coalition.

It also vowed to keep monitoring the situation with the aim of derailing any effort to pave the way for the return of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra to politics.

PAD spokesman Suriyasai Katasila said the incoming government should urgently tackle 13 issues.

The issues include the prosecution of anti-coup activists, including former PM's Office minister Jakrapob Penkair on a charge of lese majeste and reaffirmation that the charter rewrite will not veer off to whitewash Thaksin's wrongdoing.

The government should expedite wrapping up the backlog of graft cases, including the alleged land scam in Buri Ram involving the family of faction-leader Newin Chidchob, in spite of his about-face to support the Democrat-led coalition, Suriyasai said.

more here:

It's NOT over, if the "boy's" don't give up!

[h90]

well, there is the Thailand Hippie Party that is already registered with the Election Commission.

their full name is "F... off Tak-sin Thailand hippy party". you could see them at the PAD protests, but a lot of people claiming that no one from the PAD want take part in elections.

Thanks for sharing that one!

I think its nice that the PAD can show what level headed people they are and how they have no paranoic tendencies whatsoever.

And most of the world can view them (again) for the fascist idiotic cretins they are.

yeah, the "F... off Tak-sin Thailand hippy party" are the smartest ones in the PAD movement. they are able to use a four letter word and not only three letter word like "GET OUT".

they are also the creatives, known for a high artistic level.

they got copied and counterfeit 70 years ago

Just in case you can't read German.....

The German ones are against a part of the population, the Jews.

The PAD one are against single criminal person.

And as you may know, your group, the communists, made also simillar pictures a few years earlier, with good art are these where Lenin is cleaning away the super rich corrupt elite, but no square faces yet at this times.

[marshbags]

They were erecting a big screen with massive speakers, in various places to facilitate the show tonight at the Udonthani Nong Prajak Park venue, this dinner time.

It was amazing yet again, to see them also putting stands up with merchandise about the place just as the PAD did awhile back in the same places

The diference being that there is no violent orchestrations with PAD supporters smashing everything and everyone up that have the red shirts on ?????

This occured within a couple of hours of them starting and they obliterated everything to an unrecognisable mess.

The people who had yellow shirts on got well and truly worked over at the same time.

The same scenario happened a few days ago when the redshirts met at the park, no sing of trouble, but then again the way these two groups demonstrate ect. are poles apart.

This is not hearsay as media reporting was well covered on the horrific scenario that unfolded.

Tomorrow we will all know if, what, when, the exiled fugitive is allowed to address the Nation via video link and the red carded surrogate sponsored media programming.

WAFF it all is, if the world thought ( alledged ) Thailand was a laughing stock, you can guarantee there will be no alledged after this black comedy has been aired

marshbags

P.S.

I also noted a cartoon drawing of the PAD organisers ( all five of them ) naked with big penises on display.

Another one of a bizzare looking figure that had been hung with the noose still around it,s neck that was possibly meant to portray their evil intent while threatening opposing groups.

Any wording was in Thai so i couldn,t tell if the comments themselves were obscene or not.

Edited December 13, 2008 by marshbags

[termsak]

1.One person one vote.

2.Ethnic Cleansing.

1. No, one Isaan vote one hundred THB

2. Are you on drugs?

The Red's are fighting a lost case. Get over it.

[Wiresok]

You can run but you cannot hide.

Please enlighten us all.

The PAD ransom demand makes no mention, so would the PAD inform us of their views on

1.One person one vote.

2.Ethnic cleansing.

I'm sure Newin and the gang would like to be clear about this, dont you think, come on now.

[Ricardo]

...

This is not democracy.

The PAD are good at getting their agenda out with their various demands, but I am interested to know of their views about,

1.One person one vote.

2.Ethnic Cleansing.

When will the PAD ransom demands, or their supporters, enlighten us all about these issues

erm, what ethnic or racial or national group or tribe did the PAD ethnically-cleanse, as this wasn't reported anywhere, and you seem to have sources which the rest of us have no access to ?

yesterday ...

You can run but you cannot hide.

Please enlighten us all.

The PAD ransom demand makes no mention, so would the PAD inform us of their views on

1.One person one vote.

2.Ethnic cleansing.

I'm sure Newin and the gang would like to be clear about this, dont you think, come on now.

and again today, but still nothing, to back up the claimed ethnic cleansing.

Wiresok, doesn't your 'crib-sheet' have a page-2, or do you just not understand the term 'ethnic cleansing' ?

[hammered]

...

This is not democracy.

The PAD are good at getting their agenda out with their various demands, but I am interested to know of their views about,

1.One person one vote.

2.Ethnic Cleansing.

When will the PAD ransom demands, or their supporters, enlighten us all about these issues

erm, what ethnic or racial or national group or tribe did the PAD ethnically-cleanse, as this wasn't reported anywhere, and you seem to have sources which the rest of us have no access to ?

yesterday ...

You can run but you cannot hide.

Please enlighten us all.

The PAD ransom demand makes no mention, so would the PAD inform us of their views on

1.One person one vote.

2.Ethnic cleansing.

I'm sure Newin and the gang would like to be clear about this, dont you think, come on now.

and again today, but still nothing, to back up the claimed ethnic cleansing.

Wiresok, doesn't your 'crib-sheet' have a page-2, or do you just not understand the term 'ethnic cleansing' ?

Ricardo. Ethnic cleansing could refer to that statement a while back by the red guards of Udon that the province would be cleansed of all dissenting views to those of going down on dear leader without any criticism.

Oh no sorry wrong side...

[sriracha john]

Meanwhile... Thaksin still has not "quit"... in fact... pointing out, that this is to be Thailand's New Prime Minister...

Former Thaksin Cabinet Minister and current Puea Pandin Party Leader Pracha Promnok

Pracha released from hospital

Puea Pandin Party Leader Pracha Promnok was released from a Bangkok hospital Friday after he was admitted two days ago for flu. According to his close aide Dr Wanlop Thainua, a Puea Pandin Party MP, Police General Pracha needs to rest because he is weak and is stressed with the political situation. Dr Wanlop, however, refused to clarify when asked if the stress has anything to do with Pracharaj Party Leader Sanoh Thienthong proposing that Police General Pracha be a Prime Minister of

Puea Thai Party: Pracha accepts PM nomination

The Puea Thai Party insisted its MPs will elect Puea Pandin Party Leader Pracha Promnok as the 27th Prime Minister during the extraordinary session of Parliament on Monday. PTP MPs led by MP Paijit Srivorakan, Deputy House Speaker Apiwan Wiriyachai, and MP Amnuay Klangpha held a press conference on Sunday. Paijit said Police General Pracha had accepted the PTP's proposal to nominate him as the new PM during the parliamentary session. The MP also criticised the Democrat Party for lacking political ethics by trying to set up a government since it has fewer votes. In addition, acting Public Health Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung expressed confidence that about 230 MPs will vote for the PTP to run the next administration. He also believed former PM Thaksin's pre-recorded speech on Saturday would affect the MPs who decided to be behind the Democrat Party. Police Captain Chalerm said if the PTP is beaten, it would lose by no more than five

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/breaking_news/b...s.php?id=135394

Edited December 14, 2008 by sriracha john

[marshbags]

The Nation, Sun, December 14, 2008 : Last updated 17:42 hours

MPs to be paid Bt50m if they're sick on Monday's PM vote : Suthep

The Democrats are concerned about a last-ditch attempt to spend Bt50 million in order to derail Monday 's vote for their party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva as prime minister, party spokesman Buranat Samuttharak said Sunday.

"Party secretary general Suthep Thuagsuban has confirmed about the payments to MPs if they agree to take a sick leave during the vote for prime minister," Buranat said.

He said the Democrats wanted to remind relevant authorities to ensure a peaceful House session and that they would not be present at the session if violence erupts.

About 1,200 policemen will be deployed to keep peace at the House, Metropolitan Police commissioner Lt General Suchart Muenkaew said.

The anti-riot forces will begin to beef up security from yesterday's afternoon to the today's conclusion of the House voting session, Suchart said.

He said police did not anticipate the eruption of violence. A number of crowds might show up to rally in support of respective candidates for the position of prime minister but they do not expect to cause any trouble, he said.

The House is scheduled to convene at 9.30 am to cast votes on who should be the next prime minister. Each MP is expected to vote in a roll call which will take about an hour to complete.

The Pheu Thai Party resolved in an unanimous decision to support the forming of a national government under the premiership of Puea Pandin Party leader Pracha Promnok.

The proposal to nominate Pracha as prime minister has been advanced by Pracharaj Party leader Snoh Thienthong.

Deputy House Speaker Apiwan Wiriyachai has been tasked to monitor the situation with the aim to foil any attempts designed to prevent Pheu Thai MPs from voting for Pracha.

Pheu Thai MPs have claimed they are targetted for abduction so as to undermine their party's votes.

Apiwan said he has received a large number of complaints from MPs that strong men who look like soldiers are stalking them.

He said he was concerned about reports on the political involvement of certain military leaders who might try to hijack democracy by preventing a clean vote for prime minister.

Public Health Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung said he is fully confident that the Pheu Thai Party will garner the majority to outpace the Democrats in the coalition formation.

Chalerm predicted that the Democrats will lose by a small margin of eight to ten votes.

He said even with the support of the Friends of Newin faction, the Democrat-led coalition is nothing but a pipe dream.

Faction leader Newin Chidchob should wake up to the reality of his uphill battle, he said. Instead of trying to fix the coalition alliance, Newin should try to repay his Bt30 million political loan, he said.

He claimed Newin has borrowed his money since 1996 when they met at the home of media tycoon Sondhi Limthongkul.

All MPs from the faction have successfully travelled from their respective constituencies to Bangkok, MP Boonchong Wongtrairat said.

The faction's MPs are ready to cast their votes in support of the Democrat-led coalition, he said. Their early arrival at the capital was deemed necessary in order to avoid the blockade being imposed by the red shirt crowds, he added.

Unquote

marshbags

[plachon]

A 30 Baht Healthcare note with a value of 50 M baht? Nice work if you can get it. Where does one sign up to become a Sor Sor?

Amazing Thailand at its best.

[grandpops]

A 30 Baht Healthcare note with a value of 50 M baht? Nice work if you can get it. Where does one sign up to become a Sor Sor?

Amazing Thailand at its best.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_airports_in_Thailand

Or, as you seem to love Junta's, you could more easily cross into Burma.

Im sad to see the Democrats are pleeding that authorities provide security for their chicken sh1t MPs to be able to access parliament.

Pleas that were so lacking when their PAD masters and Tampax pushers were calling the shots. As they have lost the last 4 election straight, despite the Army installing a constitution and Courts to adminsiter that Constitution with the express aim of having a Democrat Government, I think they are getting in their excuses early.

Edited December 14, 2008 by grandpops

[animatic]

The aim was to get rid of Thaksin's band of thieves.

[sriracha john]

Pracha steps up as prime minister candidate

The Puea Thai Party confirmed that Puea Pandin Party Leader Pracha Promnok has accepted his nomination as prime minister candidate.

Puea Thai Party MP Paichit Sriwarakhan disclosed today (December 14th), in response to the confirmation by Prachraj Party Leader Sanoh Thienthong, that Puea Pandin Party Leader Pracha Promnok has acceded to his nomination as the new prime minister candidate, which will be proposed in the extraordinary parliamentary session tomorrow (December 15th).

He was confident that Pracha would be efficient in leading the new administration to resolve the nation’s ongoing problems.

He further revealed that a special team has been deployed to closely safeguard all Puea Thai Party MPs from possible exploitation on their electoral rights.

- ThaiNews / 2008-12-14

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

Chalerm believes Puea Thai Party to form new government

Police Captain Chalerm Yoobamrung, Puea Thai Party MP, believed his party-led faction would be able to successfully form the new administration, beating Democrat-led faction by a slim margin of a mere eight to 10 MPs.

Commenting on the voting process to single out new premier of the Parliament on Monday, Police Captain Chalerm stated today (December 14) that his party-led new coalition government would have a total about 230 MPs out of a total 438 votes.

He was confident, as a result, that the Puea Thai Party would be core to set up new government, but noted that gap of his party-led faction would be narrow at a mere eight to 10 MPs from Democrat-led faction.

The PTP, he said, was still open and ready to support any Party to join in setting up the new government. Police Captain Chalerm requested that other parties should stop defaming his Party of buying back Puea Thai Party MPs members.

The Monday outcome, no matter which faction won, he said that everyone had to accept the truth and face it, he said, adding that there was no need to worry about tonight, the night before the Parliament's meeting, because each faction MPs were already confirmed.

Police Captain Chalerm also commented on former premier, Police Lieutenant-Colonel Thaksin Shinnawatra’s December 13 pre-recorded appearance on the Truth Today's moibile political talk show, believing former prime minister's speech was an open and not harsh speech. So, he believed the speech would have no impact on selecting the new premier.

- ThaiNews / 2008-12-14

Edited December 14, 2008 by sriracha john

[sriracha john]

PM voting session expected to last one hour

The extraordinary Parliamentary session being held on Monday (December 15th) to vote for the new prime minister has been expected to last approximately one hour.

Secretary-General of the Parliament Pitoon Poomhiran disclosed today (December 14th) that the extraordinary Parliamentary session scheduled for tomorrow at 9.30 am would begin with the prime minister candidates nomination, which proceeded the roll call and open voting.

The entire procedure was expected to consume one hour; however, the voting must be reprocessed if the votes constituted less than half a quorum.

Paitoon expressed no concerns over the pro-government UDD’s rally at the Parliament as rumored since the National Police Bureau has heightened security around the compound.

- ThaiNews / 2008-12-14

[Koo82]

Paitoon expressed no concerns over the pro-government UDD's rally at the Parliament as rumored since the National Police Bureau has heightened security around the compound.

They do that when hearing UDD might come there.

They didn't do anything towards PAD at Suvarnabhumi. Sending a small group of policemen in was just a joke for PAD guards.

[Wiresok]

...

This is not democracy.

The PAD are good at getting their agenda out with their various demands, but I am interested to know of their views about,

1.One person one vote.

2.Ethnic Cleansing.

When will the PAD ransom demands, or their supporters, enlighten us all about these issues

erm, what ethnic or racial or national group or tribe did the PAD ethnically-cleanse, as this wasn't reported anywhere, and you seem to have sources which the rest of us have no access to ?

yesterday ...

You can run but you cannot hide.

Please enlighten us all.

The PAD ransom demand makes no mention, so would the PAD inform us of their views on

1.One person one vote.

2.Ethnic cleansing.

I'm sure Newin and the gang would like to be clear about this, dont you think, come on now.

and again today, but still nothing, to back up the claimed ethnic cleansing.

Wiresok, doesn't your 'crib-sheet' have a page-2, or do you just not understand the term 'ethnic cleansing' ?

As you will see if you care to read my words I merely ask the questions.

I do not make any accusations about anybody practising ethnic cleansing ,so stop twisting my words.

I am interested to know what denying the poor Issaan the vote actually means in practice, what comes after?.

The PAD fascist demands makes no mention so all I do is ask the PAD, or their supporters ,two quite legitimate questions,

1.What are the PAD's views on one person one vote.

2.What are the PAD's views on ethnic cleansing.

I have asked the question several times of the PAD, or their supporters ,to give their views.

Silence...and twisted words.

As you wish but the hard questions will not go away.

No answers, so people will draw their own conclusions!

Awaiting the PAD.

I don't claim to be an expert on ethnic cleansing, but the International community know it when they see it.

[sriracha john]

Thaksin jibe fails to change faction's stand

No traitors among us, insists Newin group

Thaksin Shinawatra's jibe that they are traitors who betrayed the people has failed to move the Friends of Newin faction, who are still set on helping the Democrats form a coalition government. The faction from the dissolved PPP was adamant all 35 MPs under its roof will back Democrat Leader Abhisit when a special House sitting today elects a new PM. The faction was upset when former PM Thaksin told his supporters on Saturday that politicians who betrayed the people would reap the consequences. They say they have never betrayed the people, or Thaksin. Thaksin's comments were directed at MPs who had deserted him to help the Democrats form a coalition government. Boonchong Wongtrairat, a Nakhon Ratchasima MP from the Newin faction, yesterday affirmed that the faction still backed Mr Abhisit as PM. Boonchong said his faction had kept its word by helping Thaksin return to the country after the PPP won the general election on Dec 23 last year. Thaksin returned on Feb 28, but later fled overseas as he believed he would be denied justice in the Ratchadaphisek land case. He was convicted and jailed in absentia. The PPP was dissolved last month for election fraud and many of its MPs joined PTP, set up by Thaksin loyalists as a replacement party. Newin's faction refused to join. Supachai Porsu, another Newin follower, said although the faction backed the Democrats, it would not merge with the Party.

Members of the Korat People Love Democracy group, part of the UDD, yesterday laid black wreaths in front of Boonchong's residence in Nakhon Ratchasima in a protest against his decision to back the Democrats. Neeranut Bua-in, leader of the group, said the members were disappointed with Boonchong's decision, which they regarded as a betrayal of

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/151208_News/15Dec2008_news13.php

Edited December 14, 2008 by sriracha john

[sriracha john]

Parliament is scheduled to vote for new PM at 9.30am on Monday. The Democrat Party would nominate its Leader Abhisit Vejjajiva while pro-Thaksin parties planned to nominate Pracha Promnok, Leader of Puea Pandin Party.

The Nation

MPs set for showdown in Parliament as D-day arrives

Abhisit holds slight edge amid hectic last-minute wooing and bargaining

The Puea Pandin Party yesterday emerged as a major decisive factor on the eve of the crucial House session to elect the new prime minister after some of its members announced they were defecting from the Democrat-led alliance.

The Democrats, after a "rehearsal" of voting to test their allies' allegiance, however remained confident that Abhisit Vejjajiva still had the support of at least 242 MPs. This number includes 21 Puea Pandin MPs, whose 27-strong party may have been split down the middle. Other MPs to vote for Abhisit include Democrat (167 MPs), Newin Faction (22), the defunct Chart Thai (13), defunct Matchima Thipataya (9), Ruamjai Thai/Chat Pattana (8), Sora-at Klinprathum faction (2).

Pracha Promnok of Puea Pandin will not give in easily as he is being supported by the defunct People Power Party for the top executive job. Puea Pandin Party deputy leader Waemahadi Waeda-oh said yesterday morning that at least 16 of 27 party MPs would vote for party leader Pracha as the next prime minister.

It will be a neck-to-neck race for the premiership as the vote of every single MP counts.

With Pheu Thai deciding to back Pracha as leader of a "national government", the Pheu Thai-Pracharaj-Puea Pandin alliance can command up to 208 MPs, assuming all 27 Puea Pandin lawmakers eventually join the camp.

Both camps yesterday staged "rehearsals" of how their members are going to vote. Their claimed figures, when added up, exceeded the 438, which is the present number of MPs in the House of Representatives.

Today's winner requires a minimum of 220 votes (the simple majority of the total 438 incumbent MPs). In case the candidate who wins the most votes wins fewer than 220, experts on parliamentary rules say a 15-day wait will be required before one last vote, after which the winner in this round, whether or not he acquires the simple majority support, will be elected.

From the numbers, Puea Pandin can create a major swing, which in effect will give the other Democrat allies a greater leverage. Lobbying if not outright vote, therefore, was expected to be absolute frantic last night.

Chalerm Yoobamrung of the defunct People Power Party said if Pracha were to lose out to Abhisit, the margin would not exceed 5 votes. And if Pracha were to win the premiership, the margin of the votes would be around 8 to 10 MPs.

But the advantage is with the Abhisit bloc rather than Pracha bloc, otherwise the defunct People Power would have already held a news conference to announce the formation of the new government.

Over the past three days, Suthep Thaugsuban, the secretary-general of the Democrat Party, has been working on the phone frantically to keep the MPs in line. Yesterday was the toughest as the roll call was constantly checked to prevent the MPs from voting with the other bloc.

All the 167 Democrat MPs got together and slept over at Karnmanee Hotel in Bangkok to make sure that they could make it to Parliament tomorrow. The MPs belonging to the Newin faction stayed at Siam City Hotel.

Suthep's instructions to Democrat MPs were: "Don't take leave, don't get sick and don't miss it."

What Suthep is most concerned about is that MPs from the Northeast and the South in the Democrat bloc might take "sick leave", in return for Bt50 million.

Sombat Sithikornwong, a Democrat MP from Nonthaburi, will attend the House tomorrow on a wheel chair because he is still being hospitalised.

- The Nation / 2008-12-15

Edited December 14, 2008 by sriracha john

[sriracha john]

EDITORIAL

Better off without him

Telling fugitive ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra to call off his much ballyhooed speech to the faithful at Supachalasai Stadium on Saturday night was the best decision by his top-level supporters in some time. Rally organiser Veera, Pracharaj Party Leader Sanoh, and Puea Pandin Party Leader Pracha told Thaksin he might derail efforts to form a new government if he tried to whip up the tens of thousands at the stadium. Instead, they played a pre-recorded and predictable Thaksin diatribe, with vague charges against the army and others allegedly conspiring to keep him from political office and from Thailand. Thaksin, to the regret, or delight, of many, remains a leading figure on the Thai political landscape. This, however, is not his day. Thankfully, events have moved past the Thai Rak Thai era. The country is likely to see quite a different political landscape today. The centre of attention will be the meeting of Parliament. For the first time in almost a decade, neither Thaksin nor one of his supporters is likely to become head of government. The emergence of the Democrat party as the leading candidate to form a coalition government is a welcome development for several reasons. First and foremost, the country is at peace on the streets. In a pre-recorded speech played for the red-shirted faithful on Saturday, Thaksin criticised the army, and blasted defectors to the Democrats. He saved particular scorn for Newin Chidchob, who told Thaksin last week that their political relationship was "all over." As for the military, he said, ''We are still under a military coup'' and officers have misused the courts against him. And as for Newin and fellow renegades, ''People know they will be punished''. One hopes he made this comment in a political way, speaking hopefully of the voters' response. With Thaksin, no one can be sure. In the past, he has held grudges and conducted extra-judicial harassment of business and political enemies. The political landscape remains unsettled, but fears of violence have diminished significantly in the past two weeks.

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/151208_News/15Dec2008_news20.php

[Ricardo]

He saved particular scorn for Newin Chidchob, who told Thaksin last week that their political relationship was "all over."

Squeak Squeak said the rat, as it abandoned ship, with relief !

As for the military, he said, ''We are still under a military coup'' and officers have misused the courts against him.

But Thaksin's own brother-in-law was just PM, in recent months, does Dr T now believe the strings were being pulled by anyone other-than himself, under the bought-and-paid-for government ?

And the courts main crime, was to find Thaksin guilty of something, Shock Horror ! Off with their heads !

And as for Newin and fellow renegades, ''People know they will be punished''.

One of the less-pleasant aspects of Thaksin's political career has always been that he has a problem, with anybody who disagrees with him, and this often leads to libel-cases, sackings, withrawl-of-funds, threats or demonstrations. Why can't he accept this, that free people have the right to disagree with him sometimes, and also the right to say so ?

One hopes he made this comment in a political way, speaking hopefully of the voters' response. With Thaksin, no one can be sure. In the past, he has held grudges and conducted extra-judicial harassment of business and political enemies. The political landscape remains unsettled, but fears of violence have diminished significantly in the past two weeks.

my highlighted comments above.

Let's hope that Thaksin is capable of learning, remembers his many promises to quit Thai politics, and doesn't decide to continue to promote discord. He has achieved the useful objective, of raising the issue of the poor in future Thai politics, and will be remembered for that. A peaceful change-of-government now, from a TRT/PPP/PTP-led coalition to a Democrat-led one this time, would be welcome.

[brahmburgers]

For days, PTP has been saying it would nominate a PM candidate from one of its small coalition parties - yet now it nominates one of its own. It matters little to the MPs who vote - what his qualifications are. All that matters (in their myopic view) is voting for who they're told to vote for. Whether it was a tobacco store wooden indian, wouldn't matter - as long as it was who the party leaders told them (or more correctly; paid them) to vote for.

I wouldn't mind getting Bt.50 million for calling in sick for one day.

How are the bribes getting handed out - besides the new fridges filled with cash? (a new twist on the expression 'a cool million'). Next, perhaps the party elders will deliver washing machines filled with cash - a new twist to 'laundered money.'

Regardless of who gets in the big chair, let's hope they get to doing some decent governing. As it stands, Thailand has had 7 years of over-governing leading to one family's enrichment (Shinawat) - followed by several years of inept MP-designates who weren't governing. Education reform, environmental husbandry, and a long list of other pressing issues weren't dealt with. I expect more of the same Bozo biz. How long before Thais can get an decent & effective leader(?) - someone like Ms Porntip - the forensic investigator who is not afraid to stand up to the powers that be - and speak the truth.

Edited December 15, 2008 by brahmburgers

[Plus]

Pracha is from Puea Paendin, not from PPP.

Most of their MPs are going to vote for Abhisit, though.

They can make or break today's vote.

[jbowman1993]

For days, PTP has been saying it would nominate a PM candidate from one of its small coalition parties - yet now it nominates one of its own. It matters little to the MPs who vote - what his qualifications are. All that matters (in their myopic view) is voting for who they're told to vote for. Whether it was a tobacco store wooden indian, wouldn't matter - as long as it was who the party leaders told them (or more correctly; paid them) to vote for.

I wouldn't mind getting Bt.50 million for calling in sick for one day.

How are the bribes getting handed out - besides the new fridges filled with cash? (a new twist on the expression 'a cool million'). Next, perhaps the party elders will deliver washing machines filled with cash - a new twist to 'laundered money.'

Regardless of who gets in the big chair, let's hope they get to doing some decent governing. As it stands, Thailand has had 7 years of over-governing leading to one family's enrichment (Shinawat) - followed by several years of inept MP-designates who weren't governing. Education reform, environmental husbandry, and a long list of other pressing issues weren't dealt with. I expect more of the same Bozo biz. How long before Thais can get an decent & effective leader(?) - someone like Ms Porntip - the forensic investigator who is not afraid to stand up to the powers that be - and speak the truth.

He's coming. Will be elected in just over an hour. He'll also be taking the Education portfolio in addition to the PM, in a stark contract to the previous PMs. Making education a priority is the best news for the country, and will help Thailand more than any other "populist policy" you can think of.

[Thai at Heart]

Having horse traded his way into this with the help of the Buriram mafia, I would think the statement "decent and effective" will be a long way from reality.

Fingers crossed.

[jbowman1993]

A Glimpse at 2 Candidates

Source - Bkk Post

Abhisit Vejjajiva

Biography

Born: 3 August 1964, in Newcastle, England - Father: Dr Athasit Vejjajiva - Mother: Dr Sodsai Vejjajiva - Spouse: Assistant Professor Dr Pimpen (Sakuntabhai) Vejjajiva - Lecturer at the Faculty of Science's Department of Mathematics, Chulalongkorn University - Children: Prang and Pannasit

Education:

Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE), First Class honours, Oxford University, UK - Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Economics, Oxford University, UK - Bachelor of Law, Ramkhamhaeng University - Honorary Doctorate in Law, Ramkhamhaeng Univerity Schools - Eton College, UK - Chulalongkorn Demonstration School, Thailand

Professional Experience

Prior to 1992:

- Special lecturer in Economics at Oxford University

- Lecturer at Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy (rank second lieutenant)

- Lecturer at Thammasart University's Faculty of Economics

After 1992: Member of Parliament, Democrat Party

- 1992 Bangkok District 6

- 1995 Bangkok District 5

- 2001 Democrat Party List

- 2005 Democrat Party List, until February 2006

- 2007 (23 dec 07) Democrat Party List Zone 6

1992 - 1994: Government Spokesperson

1994: Deputy Secretary to the Prime Minister (for political affairs)

1995: Chair, House Committee on Education Affairs

1998: Chair, Committee to Consider the National Education Bill of 1999

2001: Minister to the Prime Minister's Office, in charge of

- Board of Investment (BOI)

- Counter Corruption Commission

- Office of the Education Council

- Office of the Decentralization to Local Government Organization Committee

1999: Deputy Leader, Democrat Party

2005 - Present: Leader of the Democrat Party

2005 - February 2006: Leader of the Opposition, House of Representatives

27 February 2008 - Present: Leader of the Opposition, House of Representatives

1998: Knight Grand Cordon of the Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand

1999: Knight Grand Cordon (Special Class) of the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant

International recognition

• One of 100 Global Leaders for Tomorrow, by World Economic Forum 1992

• One of 20 Leaders for the Millennium Politics & Power, by Asiaweek magazine 5 November 1999

• One of 6 up and coming leaders for Asia, Time magazine 6 October 1997, New Voices for New Asia

Pol Gen Pracha Promnok

Biography

Pol Gen Pracha Promnok

Date of birth : May 18, 1948

Place of birth : Khon Kaen

Family : Married with Varunee Bumrungsawat

Education :

Watsrakat School

1958-1960 Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School

1960-1965 Police Academy

Master degree in Social Development, Kasetsart University

Work experience(s) :

1965 joined the force with the Metropolitan Police Bureau

1970-1979 served in the Northeast

1977 Commander of Zone 3 Provincial Police

1981 appointed Deputy Commander of the Central Investigation Division

1983 Commander of Zone 6 Provincial Police

1989 promoted to Lieutenant-general and Commisioner attached to the Police Department

responsible for community and public relations

1991 Commissioner of the Investigation Bureau

1994 Assistant Police Chief

1996 Chief of Police

13-06-2000 resigned from Police Chief to take up Labour Minister position (offered by Chart Pattana party)

2002 Deputy Public Health Minister

2007 Join Peau Pandin party

2008 Industry Minister

[animatic]

D day or T day.