Red Shirts Disappointed With Thai Democrat Verdict

[webfact]

PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS

Red shirts disappointed

By Pravit Rojanaphruk

The Nation

Verdict mocked as 'hilarious' by some rivals, who had expected nothing less

Red shirts reacted with anticipated disappointment, incredulity and anger yesterday to the Constitution Court's rejection of a case of alleged electoral violations by the Democrat Party on grounds that the Election Commission (EC) had not observed due legal procedure by failing to forward the case in time.

All those interviewed by The Nation said they doubted the integrity of both the court and the Election Commission even more after the ruling.

"It's not beyond my expectation," Somyos Prueksakasem-suk, leader of the June 24 faction of the red shirts, commented. He said the EC should be held accountable for failing to meet the 15-day deadline to push the case against the Democrats after they first learnt of the alleged wrongdoing.

"Also, the Constitution Court's [current] judges came into existence after the [2006] military coup. It's about time we reformed the court to make it like those in Europe."

Somyos said a number of red shirts would burn effigies of the court judges in Nakhon Pathom province last night. He felt that in the end the ruling was "unbelievable".

Sombat Boon-ngam-anong, leader of the Red Sunday group, said the ruling did not clear the Democrat Party of its alleged wrongdoings, and he thought it "hilarious" that the judges ruled the Election Commission to be at fault instead.

"Isn't it hilarious?" he said, adding that the EC seemed to have intentionally delayed forwarding the case so it would be technically thrown out of court. "The [EC] registrar might have to be put in prison for it, especially if some motive can be established.

"It's so appallingly obscene. [This society] operates through invisible orders [from the powers-that-be] to the point that the whole nation is collapsing," Sombat said.

Noi, a middle-ranking bureaucrat and die-hard red-shirt who asked not to be named due to her work, said she was not surprised by the ruling, and even managed to find a dark humour in it all.

"It's a little hilarious that they managed to find this technical issue [to spare the Democrat Party from being dissolved]. The evidence [against the party] is clear and it goes against people's feelings. I wonder if the [EC's registrar] intentionally delayed the process or not. In principle, government officials must speed up the process if they know that they are facing a deadline. There're reasons to believe that the delay was intentional, while if it were other parties, [the EC] would really have rushed the case, as they did in the past.

"Nevertheless, most people had already concluded prior to the ruling that there would be no dissolution [of the party]."

No red shirts gathered in front of the court yesterday as the rulings were read. Red-shirt leader and Pheu Thai MP Jatuporn Promphan warned supporters not to protest, so the 1,000 police deployed at the court little to do.

A red-shirt SMS news services for mobile phones, called "Red Gossip", was quick to put its spin on the verdict. Minutes after the ruling, it described the verdict as another example of "double standards" by the Thai judiciary and political system.

-- The Nation 2010-11-30

[ChiangMaiFun]

'disappointment' is probably and understatement! but it was only one judge that decided it - it would have been 3-3 otherwise - it is not a resounding verdict by any means and is only on a point of law - it doesn't mean they are 'clean'.

[SweeneyAgonistes]

Is it really necessary to put "PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS" in the sub-title and then in red on the OP? It's a bit obvious, isn't it?

[ChiangMaiFun]

Is it really necessary to put "PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS" in the sub-title and then in red on the OP? It's a bit obvious, isn't it?

Not all reds are pro-Thaksin

[MengWan]

'disappointment' is probably and understatement! but it was only one judge that decided it - it would have been 3-3 otherwise - it is not a resounding verdict by any means and is only on a point of law - it doesn't mean they are 'clean'.

That's right ... it only means that the "prosecution" was dirty !

In all Justice processes, everybody has to follow the rules * ... not the "rule of the mob".

(*) I agree that assassination is an easier way to deal with one's ennemies -drug-dealers or not !

Edited November 30, 2010 by MengWan

[kuffki]

Disappointed and unhappy is their feeling on any matter which does not favor them.

No matter what the Dems do-PTP is always unhappy and oppose.

Seems last thing on their mind is the well being of the nation, first thing on their mind is to get back to power, no matter at what costs.

I only hope Thai people start to see this.

[whybother]

Is it really necessary to put "PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS" in the sub-title and then in red on the OP? It's a bit obvious, isn't it?

Not all reds are pro-Thaksin

The problem seems to be that all the red leaders and the PTP are pro-Thaksin.

So, in supporting the red leaders or the PTP, the red shirts are also supporting Thaksin.

[kuffki]

Is it really necessary to put "PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS" in the sub-title and then in red on the OP? It's a bit obvious, isn't it?

Not all reds are pro-Thaksin

Not all, only 99% of them are

[SomTumTiger]

As long as the Red terrorists don't burn down any more buildings (or harass anyone, or throw dog sh#t at them, or throw grenades at them, or attack their motercade and smash their windows, or break into a summit of world leaders), they can SAY whatever they want.

Anyone who is pro-red is pro-violence, because that is their modus operendi.

[kuffki]

'disappointment' is probably and understatement! but it was only one judge that decided it - it would have been 3-3 otherwise - it is not a resounding verdict by any means and is only on a point of law - it doesn't mean they are 'clean'.

I do not think there is 1 politician on this planet who is "clean" but at least Dems and current government seem to be doing something positive for the people rather then using people for personal gains.

As the legal saying goes,some breaking of the rules/laws is for the greater benefit of society.

[ChiangMaiFun]

Is it really necessary to put "PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS" in the sub-title and then in red on the OP? It's a bit obvious, isn't it?

Not all reds are pro-Thaksin

The problem seems to be that all the red leaders and the PTP are pro-Thaksin.

So, in supporting the red leaders or the PTP, the red shirts are also supporting Thaksin.

I do agree that the majority are pro-Thaksin because he is funding alot of it - but not ALL. I can see a vast cultural shift happening where reds/yellows are just vehicles of change - if we look beyond the obvious and the 'now'.

[whybother]

I do agree that the majority are pro-Thaksin because he is funding alot of it - but not ALL. I can see a vast cultural shift happening where reds/yellows are just vehicles of change - if we look beyond the obvious and the 'now'.

I don't quite see how the yellows are vehicles of change. But there is change happening.

The current government is doing more for the poor. They are not perfect. They are not squeaky clean. But neither is the current alternative.

Going back to Thaksin, which is what the majority of the reds want, is NOT change.

[SweeneyAgonistes]

Is it really necessary to put "PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS" in the sub-title and then in red on the OP? It's a bit obvious, isn't it?

Not all reds are pro-Thaksin

Indeed. The 'obvious' was a reference to the suffocatingly yellow politics of Thaivisa/the Nation's policy of raising the specter of The Evil One every time they run an article about the reds.

[ChiangMaiFun]

Is it really necessary to put "PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS" in the sub-title and then in red on the OP? It's a bit obvious, isn't it?

Not all reds are pro-Thaksin

Indeed. The 'obvious' was a reference to the suffocatingly yellow politics of Thaivisa/the Nation's policy of raising the specter of The Evil One every time they run an article about the reds.

ah apologies it could be read either way... and you are right of course

[ChiangMaiFun]

I do agree that the majority are pro-Thaksin because he is funding alot of it - but not ALL. I can see a vast cultural shift happening where reds/yellows are just vehicles of change - if we look beyond the obvious and the 'now'.

I don't quite see how the yellows are vehicles of change. But there is change happening.

The current government is doing more for the poor. They are not perfect. They are not squeaky clean. But neither is the current alternative.

Going back to Thaksin, which is what the majority of the reds want, is NOT change.

I am viewing it as a broad sweep of cultural shfit - spanning maybe many 'events' and changes which, over a period of 30/40 years may bring Thailand forward to a more 'developed' state - and, hopefully, the poor will benefit. You may say I'm a dreamer - but I'm not the only one.

[ianbaggie]

Is it really necessary to put "PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS" in the sub-title and then in red on the OP? It's a bit obvious, isn't it?

Not all reds are pro-Thaksin

Can we put this statement to bed once and for all - Thaksin is the puppet master of the red shirts - he funds them- organises them and feeds Juthaporn with his next move. The PTP have NO poliocies whatsoever except to bring back Shinawatra!! they have repeated and admitted this themselves on numerous occasions. Therefore a vote for the PTP or support for their terrorist right arm the red shirts is AUTOMATICALLY a vote for the deposed criminal ex prime minister - a great result yesterday!! best for ALL of Thailand!!

Not all Nazis supported Hitler - but they were still nazis!!

[ianbaggie]

Is it really necessary to put "PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS" in the sub-title and then in red on the OP? It's a bit obvious, isn't it?

Not all reds are pro-Thaksin

Indeed. The 'obvious' was a reference to the suffocatingly yellow politics of Thaivisa/the Nation's policy of raising the specter of The Evil One every time they run an article about the reds.

ah apologies it could be read either way... and you are right of course

One mans "suffocatingly yellow" is another mans freedom and liberty from burnt buildings and grenade attacks - you are wrong of course!!

[jdinasia]

'disappointment' is probably and understatement! but it was only one judge that decided it - it would have been 3-3 otherwise - it is not a resounding verdict by any means and is only on a point of law - it doesn't mean they are 'clean'.

It was 66.666% --- fine by anyone's standards. However, your reading of events doesn't mean anything. We do no know why the 2 judges had dissenting opinions. You are right though ... not only does it NOT mean the Dems are clean, it also does not mean that they are as dirty as TRT or PPP were. (and imho PTP is)

[jdinasia]

I do agree that the majority are pro-Thaksin because he is funding alot of it - but not ALL. I can see a vast cultural shift happening where reds/yellows are just vehicles of change - if we look beyond the obvious and the 'now'.

I don't quite see how the yellows are vehicles of change. But there is change happening.

The current government is doing more for the poor. They are not perfect. They are not squeaky clean. But neither is the current alternative.

Going back to Thaksin, which is what the majority of the reds want, is NOT change.

I am viewing it as a broad sweep of cultural shfit - spanning maybe many 'events' and changes which, over a period of 30/40 years may bring Thailand forward to a more 'developed' state - and, hopefully, the poor will benefit. You may say I'm a dreamer - but I'm not the only one.

Wow! -- you have digressed from a "paradigm shift (that isn't happening in Thailand at the current time) to now a cultural shift spanning 3-4 decades! That is some major backtracking you are doing!

The reds quoted in the OP ARE from Pro-Thaksin groups.

[SweeneyAgonistes]

Not all Nazis supported Hitler - but they were still nazis!!

So if we swap what I take to be the equivalent terms we get: Not all reds support Thaksin - but they are still reds. Is that what you meant?

One mans "suffocatingly yellow" is another mans freedom and liberty from burnt buildings and grenade attacks - you are wrong of course!!

I see. So when I write Thaivisa is suffocatingly yellow, what I mean is that Thaivisa supports freedom and liberty...but I'm wrong.

You do seem rather confused about what you believe. Why don't you go and lie down for a year or two and think it through.

[Asa]

I'm very very disappointed by the whole process, from EC to the roo court, such a waste on our tax. Here inconsistence flourishes. where laws are mere tools of choice to keep opponents under their feet.

Survival is to be submissive to elites, officials, criminals, and politicians. Join the band, kick people asses around, or revolt.

[ChiangMaiFun]

I do agree that the majority are pro-Thaksin because he is funding alot of it - but not ALL. I can see a vast cultural shift happening where reds/yellows are just vehicles of change - if we look beyond the obvious and the 'now'.

I don't quite see how the yellows are vehicles of change. But there is change happening.

The current government is doing more for the poor. They are not perfect. They are not squeaky clean. But neither is the current alternative.

Going back to Thaksin, which is what the majority of the reds want, is NOT change.

I am viewing it as a broad sweep of cultural shfit - spanning maybe many 'events' and changes which, over a period of 30/40 years may bring Thailand forward to a more 'developed' state - and, hopefully, the poor will benefit. You may say I'm a dreamer - but I'm not the only one.

Wow! -- you have digressed from a "paradigm shift (that isn't happening in Thailand at the current time) to now a cultural shift spanning 3-4 decades! That is some major backtracking you are doing!

The reds quoted in the OP ARE from Pro-Thaksin groups.

Not at all - it's always been my view that it would take decades and if you read my posts you will know that won't you? and as for your weak analysis of cultural/paradigm shift it is apparent that you know very little about the subject - but that's to be expected of you.

[Ricardo]

I do agree that the majority are pro-Thaksin because he is funding alot of it - but not ALL. I can see a vast cultural shift happening where reds/yellows are just vehicles of change - if we look beyond the obvious and the 'now'.

I don't quite see how the yellows are vehicles of change. But there is change happening.

The current government is doing more for the poor. They are not perfect. They are not squeaky clean. But neither is the current alternative.

Going back to Thaksin, which is what the majority of the reds want, is NOT change.

I think many UDD/PTP-supporters would view the PAD as vehicles of change, indeed they seem to blame them for the fall of their last coalition-government, rather than blaming their own inactivity or lack of direction, from former-PM Somchai and his motley-crew.

I'd agree with ChiangMaiFun that there is an underlying cultural shift underway, I hope it continues and is able to achieve progress without violence & terrorist acts, be-it occupying airports or burning down government/commercial-buildings and murdering people.

[Robby nz]

I note that there is no comment from the one that is ususlly the first to make a silly statement.

None other than K Jutaporn.

Is this because he is in court listening to the PM giving evidence against him?

Or has he decided it's time to take a well earned overseas holiday to escape the possibility of his bail being withdrawn?

[Thailand]

Of course it was a disappointing result, the dems got away with a technicality.

Abhisit's men have proclaimed elections for early next year so what the reds should be doing now is starting a good pre election campaign and hopefully find a new charismatic leader who could lead them to what they want. Use the "democratic" process to their advantage if they think they can.

[jdinasia]

I am viewing it as a broad sweep of cultural shfit - spanning maybe many 'events' and changes which, over a period of 30/40 years may bring Thailand forward to a more 'developed' state - and, hopefully, the poor will benefit. You may say I'm a dreamer - but I'm not the only one.

Wow! -- you have digressed from a "paradigm shift (that isn't happening in Thailand at the current time) to now a cultural shift spanning 3-4 decades! That is some major backtracking you are doing!

The reds quoted in the OP ARE from Pro-Thaksin groups.

Not at all - it's always been my view that it would take decades and if you read my posts you will know that won't you? and as for your weak analysis of cultural/paradigm shift it is apparent that you know very little about the subject - but that's to be expected of you.

I could simply go back to your former posts on the subject. Your changes to how you are presenting things are quite dramatic. It takes some time in Thailand, actually watching and studying what is happening before things start to make any sense at all. When they do start to make sense, that is when you have to stop and see if you are observing things through western eyes (like comparing the reds to the labor unions of Europe etc)

[cdnvic]

Removed a potentially libellous comment and two quoting it. Take care to remember Thailand's libel laws which are much more aggressive than they are in most western countries.

[rubl]

Of course it was a disappointing result, the dems got away with a technicality.

Abhisit's men have proclaimed elections for early next year so what the reds should be doing now is starting a good pre election campaign and hopefully find a new charismatic leader who could lead them to what they want. Use the "democratic" process to their advantage if they think they can.

The court ruled on a technicality maybe, but the case didn't have much merit anyway. From the newsflashes during the trials you only get a very confusing picture with conflicting statements, none seem to be reason enough to find the Dem's guilty of breaching election rules. Now we wonder about the THB290M donation case which is still progressing. Wouldn't be surprised if similar technicalities play a role. Effigies of judges have been burned already last night, but we don't want to interfere

As for new elections nothing has been proclaimed although a few have spoken. Wait till PM Abhisit himself proclaims house dissolution and new elections.

Edited November 30, 2010 by rubl

[animatic]

He said the EC should be held accountable for failing to

meet the 15-day deadline to push the case against the Democrats after they first learnt of the alleged wrongdoing.

Ah so now shifting the blame from court to EC, and opening the door for Arisamans crew to harass them or worse.Expect the EC to 'face' hard times in the coming weeks. As well as the security of the judges being at risk, and of course more poisonous videos on youtube,

It is clear the Reds will never believe anything that doesn't go there way, has gone that way fairly. And of course if they and their PTP political branch regain power they will do their best to root out all those they think treated them unfairly. Whcich would be anyone they don't agree with. The history of abuse to others i well documented, and not I will not list them all for those too tired or biased to search them up for themselves.

I will note that any continued violence will negatively affect the PTP chances in the coming election, and likely harden the military's resolve to not let them gain aggressive control in a random manner. But that also will not likely intimidate the zealous hardcore.

Edited November 30, 2010 by animatic

[givenall]

[PRO-THAKSIN GROUPS

Red shirts disappointed

By Pravit Rojanaphruk

The Nation

Verdict mocked as 'hilarious' by some rivals, who had expected nothing less

Red shirts reacted with anticipated disappointment, incredulity and anger yesterday to the Constitution Court's rejection of a case of alleged electoral violations by the Democrat Party on grounds that the Election Commission (EC) had not observed due legal procedure by failing to forward the case in time.

Then, they should know that they have no chance in hell to be in any situation to gain power. So better to deal than fight