Abhisit Vows To Bridge Political Divide, Fix Economy

[george]

Abhisit vows to bridge political divide, fix economy

BANGKOK: -- Sympathetic to protesters but insists his government legitimately formed

Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said yesterday he would work to end political polarisation and repeated his pledge that his administration would serve "every person in the country".

His promises came at the end of the policy announcement, which took place at the Foreign Ministry instead of parliament after a pro-Thaksin Democratic Alliance Against Dictatorship (DAAD) mob prevented MPs entering parliament for a second day.

Abhisit vowed to "give justice to all parties", saying there would be no favouritism to groups which support the government. He has been accused of quietly backing the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD or yellow shirts) and anti-DAAD (red shirts).

His statement referred to the political divide, which has seen two sides making charges against the other over the past year, such as the PAD being accused of ruining the economy by shutting the Bangkok airports.

The session, which began about 11.30am, lasted just two hours because nearly 200 MPs from the opposition Pheu Thai Party boycotted the session. The opposition MPs claim they were not consulted and did not support the change in venue.

Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the ministry as the policy statement was read.

Abhisit said he "understood" their feelings but insisted his government was legitimately chosen by the parliament.

House Speaker Chai Chidchob said the meeting had the necessary quorum as 330 members of both houses, or more than half of the members, were present.

Four major policies unveiled by the PM were: protecting and honouring the monarchy, fostering political unity and reconciliation, reviving the economy and developing and stabilising democracy.

Abhisit said he would take "all measures" to prevent people from defaming the monarchy. He said the government would also promote loyalist sentiment among Thais toward the royal institution.

Senator Tuang Antachai, one of the only three members of the House, who spoke after the policy announcement, insisted nothing had been done about websites defaming the monarchy and suggested that "proactive" moves be adopted to promote and praise the royal family.

Tuang also attacked the new government's policy, claiming it had nothing new.

Abhisit, in defence, said no matter what government came to power it had to confront the economic and political problems.

Senator Rosana Tositrakul urged the government to make poverty eradication a "national agenda" item instead of merely dispensing "freebies" through populist policies.

Abhisit replied that populist policies were necessary to kick-start the economy and said that governments "throughout the world" did the same. He noted, however, that he may review subsidies for power and water charges, as it appeared some people consumed wastefully since they were announced by the Samak Sundaravej government.

Rosana also urged politicians to stop corruption, which she said led to "failed politics". She also asked the government to reform media outlets that spread hatred.

Senator Gen Lertrat Rattanawanich, another of those who spoke, urged the pro-Thaksin DAAD members to make a "sacrifice" and allow the government to work, noting that one day, the opposition party could return to power.

Abhisit spoke at the Foreign Ministry's Vithesamosorn Conference Room. He said the policies announced were meant for the three years left for the administration.

He also hinted there may be political reforms later that may require a change to the constitution. He added, however, that the process would be overseen by outsiders accepted by all sides.

-- The Nation 2008-12-31

[hammered]

He has a lot to deal with, but there seems to be a desire to give him a chance even in many PPP voting areas which is reasonable. As with Somchai before I wish him good luck. He will need it. Giving him achance is probably the bvets option right now after a year of non-government. Lets hope he lives up to it.

There are far more important things for most Thais right now than who wins the silly little power struggle and a move away from this realm may be a good thing.

[samgrowth]

Abhisit vows to bridge political divide, fix economy

BANGKOK: -- Sympathetic to protesters but insists his government legitimately formed

He also hinted there may be political reforms later that may require a change to the constitution. He added, however, that the process would be overseen by outsiders accepted by all sides.

-- The Nation 2008-12-31

Dem & PAD had always against PPP wanting to change the constitution. And new the Dem wants to do it. I'm sure the RED will protest any changes now, just like what the Dem and PAD also advocated. Krama?

The reason why the Dem wants the constitution changes be overseen by outsiders is that the Dem will not get a majority vote to change it unless that pay off the defectors again (cash or other non-cash means). It is a burden to the Dem, now that the defectors is demanding more and more randsom from the Dem at every opportunities.

Edited December 31, 2008 by samgrowth

[Groongthep]

Abhisit vows to bridge political divide, fix economy

Four major policies unveiled by the PM were: protecting and honouring the monarchy, fostering political unity and reconciliation, reviving the economy and developing and stabilising democracy.

So this was the major new "policy statement" much anticipated from the new government. Nothing at all specific here.

Senator Tuang Antachai, one of the only three members of the House, who spoke after the policy announcement, insisted nothing had been done about websites defaming the monarchy and suggested that "proactive" moves be adopted to promote and praise the royal family. Tuang also attacked the new government's policy, claiming it had nothing new.

Tuang is right in claiming that the government has nothing new if the above statement which is just general political rhetoric is all they could come up with. It appears they laid out no new specific programs whatsoever. Tuang's own royalist diatribe didn't really help to add anything new to the debate either.

Senator Rosana Tositrakul urged the government to make poverty eradication a "national agenda" item instead of merely dispensing "freebies" through populist policies.

OK, this sounds good, but wouldn't building new schools, staffing them with better teachers and improving the curriculum actually be a "populist" policy. Makes me wonder if they have any idea what they're talking about.

Rosana also urged politicians to stop corruption, which she said led to "failed politics". She also asked the government to reform media outlets that spread hatred.

Simply urging the politicians to stop corruption will never work. They need an independent oversite authority with real teeth and the courage to enforce the anti corruption laws. She then asks the government to reform media outlets that spread hatred. Just what media outlets might she be talking about and how is limiting freedom of the press going to help solve anything?

If this is the best they can do then heaven help Thailand.

[AussieFarang]

Why do something so difficult to start off with.

Just try something easy like achieve worldwide peace first.

A corrupt and divided country on display for all to see.

THE LAND OF FALSE SMILES.

[animatic]

Abhisit vows to bridge political divide, fix economy

BANGKOK: -- Sympathetic to protesters but insists his government legitimately formed

He also hinted there may be political reforms later that may require a change to the constitution. He added, however, that the process would be overseen by outsiders accepted by all sides.

-- The Nation 2008-12-31

Dem & PAD had always against PPP wanting to change the constitution. And new the Dem wants to do it. I'm sure the RED will protest any changes now, just like what the Dem and PAD also advocated. Krama?

The reason why the Dem wants the constitution changes be overseen by outsiders is that the Dem will not get a majority vote to change it unless that pay off the defectors again (cash or other non-cash means). It is a burden to the Dem, now that the defectors is demanding more and more randsom from the Dem at every opportunities.

Everyone acknowledges that the latest constitution has flaws.

The difference is how are they going to make adjustments

and do it by stealth and deceit as PPP was attempting,

or in an open and straight forward manner with observers.

This in itself is a but difference.

Yes, they were against PPP changing the constitution ot exponerate Thaksin

and their own fauz pas retroactively.

Vs change the constitution for things looking foward.

Another big difference in aims and intent.

[animatic]

Too many typos, left my glasses upstairs. Apologies.

The difference is how are they going to make adjustments;

Do it by stealth and deceit as PPP was attempting.

Or in an open and straight forward manner with observers.

As they propose. This is in itself is a big difference.

There is not one word out of the Dems. mouths that will go un-opposed,

which makes most of the opposition pretty much preposterous.

Until they get themselves coherent and logical opposition positions,

rather than just "Be Opposed".

Nay saying as reason for being is not terribly productive.

And worse, quite counter-productive in difficult times.

But that side is little known for it's altruistic interests

in the people, in practice....

Edited December 31, 2008 by animatic

[mackayae]

Abhisit vows to bridge political divide, fix economy

Senator Gen Lertrat Rattanawanich, another of those who spoke, urged the pro-Thaksin DAAD members to make a "sacrifice" and allow the government to work, noting that one day, the opposition party could return to power.

-- The Nation 2008-12-31

That should satisfy the redshirts.

Edited December 31, 2008 by mackayae

[Gnarpjohan]

Four major policies unveiled by the PM were: protecting and honouring the monarchy, fostering political unity and reconciliation, reviving the economy and developing and stabilising democracy.

Very concrete policies indeed.

Pretty boy and 'elite' mouthpiece Abhisit goes blah blah blah, nothing new here. See what they do, not what they say.

[Scott]

I support the opposition, however, I do hope for the best for the PM. It would be a welcomed treat for everyone if he can succeed.

[BSJ]

With the challenges as big as they are they will need more than a few months to make progress. The question is will the people tolerate the wait!

[henryalleman]

A government who oppress free speech, free thoughts and freedom of opinion can't be called democratic.

So we can expect that the the first 20 minutes of the news will be extended to be 40 minutes.

Are there really not more serious problems to be handled than this trivialities?

[samgrowth]

Four major policies unveiled by the PM were: protecting and honouring the monarchy, fostering political unity and reconciliation, reviving the economy and developing and stabilising democracy.

Very concrete policies indeed.

Pretty boy and 'elite' mouthpiece Abhisit goes blah blah blah, nothing new here. See what they do, not what they say.

I think Thailand will need to fix the pubs first.

[Koo82]

Abhisit vows to bridge political divide, fix economy

Politics: they brought down an elected government and set up their own by a trick and ask red people to be quiet.

Economy: the world crisis does not hurt Thailand enough so PAD had to block airports to scare tourists away for years.

Without the PAD and those behind their back, there were no 2 problems above.

[TAWP]

Koo82 is writing a comedy?

[Koo82]

TAWP,

This is not funny. 350,000 tourists couldn't get out. Some died on the way to other cities trying to fly home. Government had to supply free accommodation and meals. Exports people couldn't complete the contracts. ASEAN Summit postponed. People losing jobs. And the Foreign Minister said the protests were a lot of fun.

[TAWP]

TAWP,

This is not funny. 350,000 tourists couldn't get out. Some died on the way to other cities trying to fly home. Government had to supply free accommodation and meals. Exports people couldn't complete the contracts. ASEAN Summit postponed. People losing jobs. And the Foreign Minister said the protests were a lot of fun.

No, economic crisis isn'ta a comedy. Your mishandling of the truth is.

And your mis-representation of the importance of a limited set of stupid actions by a small group of people on the long-term effect of the country is, well sad, but also borderline a comedy.

Who died btw?

[astral]

Is walking on water on his list...........

[Thaddeus]

Is walking on water on his list...........

It may be, but getting crucified will probably happen first

[Koo82]

Who died btw?

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/Canadians-Ki...At-t226900.html

Two Canadian tourists stranded by Bangkok's airport closures were killed and a Briton seriously injured in a car crash as they rushed to catch a flight out of southern Thailand, police said on Tuesday.

A Hong Kong national was killed in a similar traffic accident on Sunday as he also tried to get to Phuket to catch a flight back home.

[LaoPo]

Who died btw?

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/Canadians-Ki...At-t226900.html

Two Canadian tourists stranded by Bangkok's airport closures were killed and a Briton seriously injured in a car crash as they rushed to catch a flight out of southern Thailand, police said on Tuesday.

A Hong Kong national was killed in a similar traffic accident on Sunday as he also tried to get to Phuket to catch a flight back home.

..and a 5-months pregnant Dutch Lady Lawyer/Prosecutor, 34 year old Mrs. Eva Meillo, got killed in a taxi accident Sundaymorning November 30, 2008, also on her way to Phuket from Bangkok to catch another flight than her booked one from BKK; Mrs. Meillo was traveling together with her Mother who survived the accident...

Mrs. Meillo was already mother to a daughter of 1 1/2 years old

LaoPo

[TAWP]

Surely it would be better to blame the deplorable state of the traffic here than to play 'what if'-games in un-related events. Those that believe fate is already written would say that they would have died even if they flew home... so to avoid a theological debate, stick to strictly related events when talking about people dying due to someones actions.

Otherwise I'm pretty sure I can claim you guys are responsible for a few...

[Roadman]

Back after a lot of fishing.

He has a lot to deal with, but there seems to be a desire to give him a chance even in many PPP voting areas which is reasonable. As with Somchai before I wish him good luck. He will need it. Giving him achance is probably the bvets option right now after a year of non-government. Lets hope he lives up to it.

There are far more important things for most Thais right now than who wins the silly little power struggle and a move away from this realm may be a good thing.

Agree and the relevance of your last paragraph is not lost. Perhaps from a different point as you are perhaps suggesting the need to survive in the current economic down turn. From my view I wonder if people realise the real desperate need to have this guy try and unite this country.

There is much more about to face Thailand than what most seem to be able to grasp. Talking to Thai's, the fears they have are not so much with the current political power strggle but more so with the other upcoming power struggle.

There are two power struggles that are being or about to be played out in this country. This political one I see as the last option for this country to save itself from tearing apart in the near future. If this lot fails then politcially Thailand will not have stability for the near future. If that political stability is not there soon then when the real power base of this country has to go through a "retirement" change (struggle), this country is going to face some serious challenges. If both of these power bases are unstable then I really fear for Thailand.

Although I do not agree with how Abhisit got there, I hope for the sake of this country he can unite the rural and elite into some sort of democratic constitution.

[samgrowth]

Abhisit vows to bridge political divide, fix economy

BANGKOK: -- Sympathetic to protesters but insists his government legitimately formed

He also hinted there may be political reforms later that may require a change to the constitution. He added, however, that the process would be overseen by outsiders accepted by all sides.

-- The Nation 2008-12-31

Dem & PAD had always against PPP wanting to change the constitution. And new the Dem wants to do it. I'm sure the RED will protest any changes now, just like what the Dem and PAD also advocated. Krama?

The reason why the Dem wants the constitution changes be overseen by outsiders is that the Dem will not get a majority vote to change it unless that pay off the defectors again (cash or other non-cash means). It is a burden to the Dem, now that the defectors is demanding more and more randsom from the Dem at every opportunities.

Everyone acknowledges that the latest constitution has flaws.

The difference is how are they going to make adjustments

and do it by stealth and deceit as PPP was attempting,

or in an open and straight forward manner with observers.

This in itself is a but difference.

Yes, they were against PPP changing the constitution ot exponerate Thaksin

and their own fauz pas retroactively.

Vs change the constitution for things looking foward.

Another big difference in aims and intent.

Why release it in 2006 if the constitution has flaws.

Why don't just call it working-in-progress.

In comparison, the Bible also have many flaws. Should the pope have it amended every 2 years? Or the 10 commandments, etc?

Enough is enough. The way I see it, any government in power will want to change it to suit themselves. Doesn't matter if it is PPP or Dems. The Thai people should them them filling in the bank cheque themselves.

Edited January 5, 2009 by samgrowth

[Journalist]

Surely it would be better to blame the deplorable state of the traffic here than to play 'what if'-games in un-related events. Those that believe fate is already written would say that they would have died even if they flew home... so to avoid a theological debate, stick to strictly related events when talking about people dying due to someones actions.

Otherwise I'm pretty sure I can claim you guys are responsible for a few...

In Hong Kong, the fact that one of our citizens was killed because Thailand is so shambolic (whether its traffic or protest-related) is a fact lost on nobody.

Thailand has become a borderline failed-state. Even Malaysia has overtaken it.

[TAWP]

In comparison, the Bible also have many flaws. Should the pope have it amended every 2 years? Or the 10 commandments, etc?

Just an FYI, but the bible has undergone several revisions (and I'm not referring to the different translations). Men voting on what parts to include and exclude, while proclaiming they are all words directly handed down from God. Amazing...and surely should brand all bishops [of the time] as heretics.

[Old Man River]

Four major policies unveiled by the PM were: protecting and honouring the monarchy, fostering political unity and reconciliation, reviving the economy and developing and stabilising democracy.

So this was the major new "policy statement" much anticipated from the new government. Nothing at all specific here.

Groongthep, this was just a policy statement which is not meant to be anything more than guiding principles. Action plans (specifics) come after guiding principles are established.

If there is one thing Abhisit knows, with his high brow British education, is how to put together policies and plans. Given time, I suspect he will accomplish a lot, but on this time will tell (if he is given time).

[Koo82]

He's fix economy by borrowing money. Saw on tv that his people talked with people from World Bank by / after 15 Dec.

Borrowing money is too easy for any government.