The Alpine Scandal

[Mobi]

From today's Postbag, Bangkok Post.

Alpine case: the naked greed of those in power

Re: ''Chavarat left seething over Alpine row,'' (BP, Sept 10). I was appalled but not surprised to read the article about Interior Minister Chavarat's petulant ''It's fine, I'll get them back one day'' reaction to the Alpine land case.

This whole sorry farrago is symptomatic of Thailand and shows the naked greed and arrogance of those in power. Who, in this case, showed no reluctance to benefit from the kindness of a true Buddhist by subverting her dying wishes, nor any uneasiness in profiteering at the expense of the temple? It does, however, cause me to closely question the personal morality of all those involved.

Moreover, it shows that there is but a painfully thin patina of civility over the surface of truly despicable behaviour.

But the act itself is not the true problem, the fact that it has been allowed to go uncorrected for so long, and particularly in the face of a clear decision by the Council of State, reveals that Thailand is in fact a failed state.

The country may enjoy a certain degree of economic success but the rule of law does not exist. In a state where the rule of law was enforced without fear, favour or affection, this aberration would have been corrected effectively years ago.

What is the point of a final arbiter if it is just ignored? Due process is but a sham here, controlled by the whim of individuals who pervert the course of justice for their own avaricious ends. Indeed, I seriously doubt if it is now possible to roll back this pervasive disease, as I fear it is all-pervading and goes to the very core of the nation.

Let's see if this prime minister can succeed in having virtue and justice triumph within a tempest of wickedness and immorality. Alas, I for one will not be holding my breath.

DR JOHN PATTERSON

[mca]

It does make one wonder if there is actually anybody who gets into government here (of whatever political hue) with any integrity whatsoever.

My humble opinion is the initial bent ones (be they police, army, government whoever) get their way to the front of the trough by being without morals and then bring their equally bent mates with them to share the spoils.

I'd imagine there are a number of honest Thai cops or whatever who'll never advance because they're, well, honest. The trough feeders wouldn't allow it. Rocking the boat as it were.

"

[mahtin]

What good are soccer skills in a game of rugger?