Thai PM Yingluck Gets Taste Of Things To Come

[webfact]

PM gets taste of things to come

By The Nation

Focused attacks by Democrats, bumbling Speaker add to her worries

Yingluck Shinawatra's rare public show of frustration on Wednesday night may soon become something regular. House Speaker Somsak Kiatsuranont's poor performance in presiding over the volatile parliamentary debate on government policies might be the main reason, but there were other factors as well. It's her opponents, the Democrats, who gave the prime minister real cause to be nervous, and they've only just begun.

Wednesday proved once again that whenever they are in the opposition, the Democrats come alive. The policy debate was used to amplify doubts on controversial election promises, but perhaps that should be the least of Yingluck's concerns. The Democrats managed to keep Thaksin Shinawatra's shadow hanging over her head and tried to drum up the issue of "loyalty" as one of the Pheu Thai Party's weakest points. When Pheu Thai was in opposition, being accused of disloyalty could be easily dismissed as political mudslinging. Not quite so when the party is now ruling the country.

It was clear that Pheu Thai lacked leadership and coordination on the parliamentary floor. Whereas the Democrats systematically attacked Thaksin over problems in the deep South and questioned the ruling party's connection with extreme hard-liners of the red-shirt movement, Pheu Thai let itself be defended by the two persons who were at the centre of controversy and who could only make things worse. Jatuporn Promphan and Natthawut Saikua walked straight into the Democrats' trap after Nipit Intarasombat brought up the issue of a red-shirt publication.

Parliamentary protests always benefit the opposition, simply because it has little to lose. Pheu Thai, which should have been aware of this universal truth, let debate on the "loyalty" issue drag on and on and be filled with comments from Jatuporn and Natthawut that did not help matters. House Speaker Somsak was lost and confused, trying unsuccessfully to look neutral. When he finally declared the policy debate as over, the perception on the social media was almost a consensus that he was obviously biased in the government's favour.

Yingluck paced the corridor behind the House speaker's and government seating, talking seriously to someone on her mobile phone. Video footage showed a very unhappy Yingluck. It can't be confirmed with whom she was unhappy, but Somsak might not want to look at the footage twice.

The aftermath was not quite nice, either. Somsak, realising his mistake in declaring the debate over despite a long list of opposition MPs waiting to speak, sent an SMS calling for another day of debate. The problem is, rules require that MPs and Senators must be given at least a day if Somsak wants to call a "new" meeting. Luckily for Somsak, the Democrats only pointed out this error but did not pursue the issue. The policy debate ended, again, yesterday afternoon with bruises for Somsak and the government.

Yingluck must be relieved, but temporarily. The Thaksin visa issue was overshadowed by the "loyalty" issue and she has had one parliamentary session under her belt. Her performance was supposed to be a major point of scrutiny, but Democrat old stars Suthep Thaugusuban, Chuan Leekpai and Abhisit Vejjajiva along with Somsak, Jatuporn and Natthawut came to her rescue. Wednesday night's chaos on the House floor may not be good for Pheu Thai, but more or less it helped take some spotlight off Thailand's first female prime minister.

On the other hand, Yingluck has witnessed unmistakable evidence that her administration is plagued with several tricky loose-ends, which her opponents will keep capitalising on throughout her tenure. The Democrats will keep on with what they do best. Most of all, the opposition MPs almost made it look convincing over the past three days that the real thorns in her side are not them, but her big brother, the extremists among the red shirts and bold election promises.

-- The Nation 2011-08-26

[Thaddeus]

I spent, for the most part, four days in Cambodia this week (what a breath of fresh air that was) and spent a good portion of last night and this morning trying to play catch up with the news articles.

Should have just read this one.

Most of all, the opposition MPs almost made it look convincing over the past three days that the real thorns in her side are not them, but her big brother, the extremists among the red shirts and bold election promises.

[Sabrinus]

I am so surprised that being the first female Prime Minister of Thailand is not the main focus as it really is a world first and an event that should be celebrated. But as usual, its straight to the throat of the new prime minister. Good luck to her, and Thailand, perhaps it takes the prowess of a female to sort out Thialands mess.

[monkfish]

Yea poor Yingluck.

I just hope she doesn't accidentally let one off in public as the media would have a field day over it.

Just like they did over her drinking water scandal.

The cheek of it!!

[Jingthing]

I am so surprised that being the first female Prime Minister of Thailand is not the main focus as it really is a world first and an event that should be celebrated. But as usual, its straight to the throat of the new prime minister. Good luck to her, and Thailand, perhaps it takes the prowess of a female to sort out Thialands mess.

It's not the focus because clearly she didn't earn her job in any semblance of a normal MERIT kind of way. No, I am not saying she wasn't elected. Not the same thing.

Edited August 26, 2011 by Jingthing

[rubl]

I am so surprised that being the first female Prime Minister of Thailand is not the main focus as it really is a world first and an event that should be celebrated. But as usual, its straight to the throat of the new prime minister. Good luck to her, and Thailand, perhaps it takes the prowess of a female to sort out Thialands mess.

For any new (or old) PM it's straight to the throat. The opposition doesn't go for 'be nice to the PM' days, don't know any country where they do.

As for 'world first', that needs explanation. Ms. Yingluck is the first Thai female PM, but world's first?

[Jingthing]

Yep, if you're pro feminist power (which is a little absurd in this case as the rise of Yingluck is about as feminist a story as a cake baking contest) you wouldn't object to a female leader being tested in EXACTLY the same level of hardball tactics as a male leader. So far, I think she has been given too much of a pass. Time to man up, Yingluck, or get out of the kitchen.

Edited August 26, 2011 by Jingthing

[whybother]

Yep, if you're pro feminist power (which is a little absurd in this case as the rise of Yingluck is about as feminist a story as a cake baking contest) you wouldn't object to a female leader being tested in EXACTLY the same level of hardball tactics as a male leader. So far, I think she has been given too much of a pass. Time to man up, Yingluck, or get out of the kitchen.

You mean "get back to the kitchen", don't you?

[IMA_FARANG]

Oh, isnt that terrible!

Well, in some countries that's just called Democracy.

I think it was the U.S. president Harry Truman (known at the time for his rather "salty" language) who said:

"Well, if you don't like the heat, get out of the d---ed kitchen".

It also applies to Thailand.

And though I'm not exactly a supporter of hers, I have to admit that there may be more to Yingluck than just being a "clone" for her brother.

She seems to be able to give as well as she gets.

My suspision is growing that "older brother" may have bit off more than even he can chew.

So I guess she can handle her own fights, she doesn't seem to be a "wimp" to me.

[Jingthing]

Yep, if you're pro feminist power (which is a little absurd in this case as the rise of Yingluck is about as feminist a story as a cake baking contest) you wouldn't object to a female leader being tested in EXACTLY the same level of hardball tactics as a male leader. So far, I think she has been given too much of a pass. Time to man up, Yingluck, or get out of the kitchen.

You mean "get back to the kitchen", don't you?

Good joke, but of course I assumed everyone knew the cliche I was referring to -- if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen. So far, most of what she says sounds like whining and begging to be left alone for six months. That's pathetic. I imagine six months from now, the same song and dance. Kind of funny putting yourself out there for the most visible job in Thailand, and then begging for some me time. Sad!

Edited August 26, 2011 by Jingthing

[whybother]

Yep, if you're pro feminist power (which is a little absurd in this case as the rise of Yingluck is about as feminist a story as a cake baking contest) you wouldn't object to a female leader being tested in EXACTLY the same level of hardball tactics as a male leader. So far, I think she has been given too much of a pass. Time to man up, Yingluck, or get out of the kitchen.

You mean "get back to the kitchen", don't you?

Good joke, but of course I assumed everyone knew the cliche I was referring to -- if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen. So far, most of what she says sounds like whining and begging to be left alone for six months. That's pathetic. I imagine six months from now, the same song and dance. Kind of funny putting yourself out there for the most visible job in Thailand, and then begging for some me time. Sad!

Just a play on the feminist theme.

Edited August 26, 2011 by whybother

[animatic]

The slow slide into the muck has started from day one. I am not surprised she was angry on the phone back stage. And a 'Staged Play' this most certainly is. This is not being scripted by the players we see, more a Pygmalion effect at play. We hear the real story from 'abroad via the press' and not from the scene of the actual deliberations.

One wonders what further damage can happen when the big questions can't be dealt with if the time zones are off sync.

PTP is showing itself in the same form it has since it's inception; 3rd string TRT players, and even 2.5 years into their tenures that have little discernable organization and control of their actions. Almost makes one yearn for the banned 111 to come back... almost.

Edited August 26, 2011 by animatic

[IMA_FARANG]

I'm sorry I was refering to an American story.

Harry Truman was then president, and was asked by a reporter if he felt unhappy that the opposition was criticising him for his policies.

He told the reporter, "Well, if you don't like the heat, then get out of the d--ned kitchen", as his response to the reporter.

Of course what he meant was in a Democracy, politicians should expect criticisim. It's part of the game.

Sometimes, I forget that I got my degree in American History many years ago.

Guess, some people may have not understood my reference.

That was all I meant.

[Huey]

I am so surprised that being the first female Prime Minister of Thailand is not the main focus as it really is a world first and an event that should be celebrated. But as usual, its straight to the throat of the new prime minister. Good luck to her, and Thailand, perhaps it takes the prowess of a female to sort out Thialands mess.

Because she's not truly the first female Prime Minister, she's just the first Female puppet in the Prime Minster's Chair. Everyone knows it, voting for her was the only way anyone could vote for Taxsin.

I all can say is, "I can't wait for the........

[ToffeEFCpower]

Don't you mean it's a first for Thailand?

[brianb1944]

Yep, if you're pro feminist power (which is a little absurd in this case as the rise of Yingluck is about as feminist a story as a cake baking contest) you wouldn't object to a female leader being tested in EXACTLY the same level of hardball tactics as a male leader. So far, I think she has been given too much of a pass. Time to man up, Yingluck, or get out of the kitchen.

You mean "get back to the kitchen", don't you?

I doubt that Yingluck has ever seen a kitchen

[Pib]

Guess PM Yingluck is finding out conducting a meeting with many smart political opponents is quite a bit different from chairing a company boardroom meeting where you are the boss and everyone is sucking-up to you.

[toan6082]

I am so surprised that being the first female Prime Minister of Thailand is not the main focus as it really is a world first and an event that should be celebrated. But as usual, its straight to the throat of the new prime minister. Good luck to her, and Thailand, perhaps it takes the prowess of a female to sort out Thialands mess.

Because she's not truly the first female Prime Minister, she's just the first Female puppet in the Prime Minster's Chair. Everyone knows it, voting for her was the only way anyone could vote for Taxsin.

I all can say is, "I can't wait for the........

today the government stopped all construction in khao kor threating to fine workers 200000 baht if found working. many locals now out of work thanks to yingluck. this is where thailand had a civil war in the 1970s. maybe start a nother one

[ratcatcher]

Yep, if you're pro feminist power (which is a little absurd in this case as the rise of Yingluck is about as feminist a story as a cake baking contest) you wouldn't object to a female leader being tested in EXACTLY the same level of hardball tactics as a male leader. So far, I think she has been given too much of a pass. Time to man up, Yingluck, or get out of the kitchen.

You mean "get back to the kitchen", don't you?

I doubt that Yingluck has ever seen a kitchen

Oh, I'm sure she has Brian, but only when she has to give her maids instructions or open a bottle of wine.

Doubt she's ever got her hands greasy while cooking, we are talking hi hi-so here folks.

Na ka.

[rubl]

Oh, I'm sure she has Brian, but only when she has to give her maids instructions or open a bottle of wine.

Doubt she's ever got her hands greasy while cooking, we are talking hi hi-so here folks.

Na ka.

To be fair, Ms. Yingluck has cooked before. There was even a complaint raised with the Election commission that she cooked noodles for the crowd

[Pib]

today the government stopped all construction in khao kor threating to fine workers 200000 baht if found working. many locals now out of work thanks to yingluck. this is where thailand had a civil war in the 1970s. maybe start a nother one

You got a reference/some proof on your statement, such as maybe a news article, web link, etc?

[nurofiend]

I am so surprised that being the first female Prime Minister of Thailand is not the main focus as it really is a world first and an event that should be celebrated. But as usual, its straight to the throat of the new prime minister. Good luck to her, and Thailand, perhaps it takes the prowess of a female to sort out Thialands mess.

Because she's not truly the first female Prime Minister, she's just the first Female puppet in the Prime Minster's Chair. Everyone knows it, voting for her was the only way anyone could vote for Taxsin.

I all can say is, "I can't wait for the........

today the government stopped all construction in khao kor threating to fine workers 200000 baht if found working. many locals now out of work thanks to yingluck. this is where thailand had a civil war in the 1970s. maybe start a nother one

haha, christ sake...maybe ye should join the red shirts

[Pib]

today the government stopped all construction in khao kor threating to fine workers 200000 baht if found working. many locals now out of work thanks to yingluck. this is where thailand had a civil war in the 1970s. maybe start a nother one

You got a reference/some proof on your statement, such as maybe a news article, web link, etc?

And if toan6082 was referring to construction on national forest land, that is, encroachment/illegal construction of resorts/homes like has been in the news a lot lately, then the govt deserves a pat on the back for getting tough on the encroachment/illegal construction (regardless of the probable corruption by govt officials which helped allow the encroachment/construction).

[khaowong1]

Yep, if you're pro feminist power (which is a little absurd in this case as the rise of Yingluck is about as feminist a story as a cake baking contest) you wouldn't object to a female leader being tested in EXACTLY the same level of hardball tactics as a male leader. So far, I think she has been given too much of a pass. Time to man up, Yingluck, or get out of the kitchen.

Cowgirl up, Yingluck..

[bkkjames]

I am so surprised that being the first female Prime Minister of Thailand is not the main focus as it really is a world first and an event that should be celebrated. But as usual, its straight to the throat of the new prime minister. Good luck to her, and Thailand, perhaps it takes the prowess of a female to sort out Thialands mess.

I was thinking the same thing 'why no great celebration from women's groups about such an achievment'? Your last comment though did make me crack a smile though-thanks for that!

[Colin Yai]

I'm sorry I was refering to an American story.

Harry Truman was then president, and was asked by a reporter if he felt unhappy that the opposition was criticising him for his policies.

He told the reporter, "Well, if you don't like the heat, then get out of the d--ned kitchen", as his response to the reporter.

Of course what he meant was in a Democracy, politicians should expect criticisim. It's part of the game.

Sometimes, I forget that I got my degree in American History many years ago.

Guess, some people may have not understood my reference.

That was all I meant.

Yeah and President Harry S Truman had a sign on his desk "The buck stops here" meaning simply responsibility for running the Country goes no further than his desk!, if only Thai's thought this way cos when the shit hits the fan its always someone else's fault .

[darhut]

I am so surprised that being the first female Prime Minister of Thailand is not the main focus as it really is a world first and an event that should be celebrated. But as usual, its straight to the throat of the new prime minister. Good luck to her, and Thailand, perhaps it takes the prowess of a female to sort out Thialands mess.

I think you mean a first for Thailand definately not a world first (maybe a world first for Thailand to have one lol) no real reason to celebrate as there have been over 50 female PM's worldwide in the last 60 years.

And she shouldn't be treated any different just because she is a she. She will learn to woMAN up.

I would have loved to listen to the phone call, maybe started something like " P chai Tacky they are all being nasty to me, can you tell them to stop?

[mca]

Yep, if you're pro feminist power (which is a little absurd in this case as the rise of Yingluck is about as feminist a story as a cake baking contest) you wouldn't object to a female leader being tested in EXACTLY the same level of hardball tactics as a male leader. So far, I think she has been given too much of a pass. Time to man up, Yingluck, or get out of the kitchen.

You mean "get back to the kitchen", don't you?

I doubt that Yingluck has ever seen a kitchen

Oh, I'm sure she has Brian, but only when she has to give her maids instructions or open a bottle of wine.

Doubt she's ever got her hands greasy while cooking, we are talking hi hi-so here folks.

Na ka.

Well I can't exactly see Aphisit changing the oil on his car or putting up a set of shelves either can you?

[CHIEFOFFICER]

Yep, if you're pro feminist power (which is a little absurd in this case as the rise of Yingluck is about as feminist a story as a cake baking contest) you wouldn't object to a female leader being tested in EXACTLY the same level of hardball tactics as a male leader. So far, I think she has been given too much of a pass. Time to man up, Yingluck, or get out of the kitchen.

You mean "get back to the kitchen", don't you?

I doubt that Yingluck has ever seen a kitchen

I second that !

[Jingthing]

I am so surprised that being the first female Prime Minister of Thailand is not the main focus as it really is a world first and an event that should be celebrated. But as usual, its straight to the throat of the new prime minister. Good luck to her, and Thailand, perhaps it takes the prowess of a female to sort out Thialands mess.

I was thinking the same thing 'why no great celebration from women's groups about such an achievment'? Your last comment though did make me crack a smile though-thanks for that!

Because feminists are not STUPID. The ascendancy of a woman like Yingluck, who is a blatant puppet of a powerful MAN, her close relative, who showed no evidence of particular aptitude, experience, or ideological fire for the job, is the OPPOSITE of a gain for feminism. She could turn that around if she wanted, was brave enough, was competent enough, and actually wanted to. That would involve emerging as a STRONG, competent, INDEPENDENTLY minded real leader and visibly SHOOK OFF THAKSIN. I can't imagine any rational person really believing that has any chance of actually happening.

Edited August 27, 2011 by Jingthing