Thai Politicians Have Failed The People Yet Again

[webfact]

EDITORIAL

Thai politicians have failed the people yet again

The Nation

New nicknames given to MPs reflect public disappointment at the abject failure of elected representatives to carry out even their most basic duties to an acceptable standard

The annual rite in which Thailand's parliamentary reporters give new nicknames to politicians is a tongue-in-cheek affair. Nonetheless, with the theme this year reflecting the overall poor performance of all politicians, the funny nickname event is not simply much ado about nothing.

For instance, House Speaker Somsak Kiatsuranont has been given the nickname "Fake gavel from Dubai", implying the connection with Thaksin. Somsak used to be known as a "gavel master" for his effective control over the House in 1997. But this year his job performance has been questioned. He also admitted to meeting ousted former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra in Dubai before receiving his appointment as Speaker.

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has received the nickname "Shell For Pu Daeng" (a pu daeng is a red crab) because the Pheu Thai Party has often invoked its majority to shield Yingluck - whose nickname is Pu - from stinging criticism during the House debates. Yingluck herself has not done much to respond to any criticism from her opponents, but instead has let some 20 MPs from the red-shirt movement fire back verbal volleys on her behalf.

It is unfortunate that our politicians have once again failed to impress the media and the public in spite of our high expectations. The Pheu Thai Party won a significant majority in the general election. The Yingluck government and its red-shirt supporters have repeatedly cited the importance of democracy and the House system in winning votes from supporters on July 3. However, since being elected, some Pheu Thai politicians have missed many parliamentary meetings, even though the House sessions are deemed by them as being essential to the democratic system. The House should provide a forum for people to voice their concerns through their members of Parliament. Many sessions have been broadcast live because ordinary citizens want to see how their politicians represent them and stand up for their needs in the House debate.

In addition, some politicians have not taken criticism from other House members seriously. They have refused to answer some questions during House meetings. These politicians often say that they have received a mandate from the voters and they have no need to respond to concerns raised by their opponents.

The Upper House's performance has been no better. Senate Speaker Teeradej Meepien has been named the "Evasive General" because he is well known for ducking questions on hot issues. The entire Senate chamber has been dubbed "Sangkhaloke" or antique chinaware. The name is a metaphor, alluding to the general lacklustre performance of the chamber. This is because although antique chinaware can be of great value, it may not really offer any practical use.

Another unpleasant and surprising development is that reporters this year have refrained from nominating any politician as an "Outstanding Lawmaker" - because none of them has been impressive in performing even basic duties. Tthe public expects more from elected representatives. Many have been glued to TV sets during the House debates only to see politicians skipping the sessions or failing to address their concerns. The legislative highlight of the year has been nothing to celebrate as reporters selected the House's failure to form a quorum for the new government's policy statement vote on August 24.

Yingluck herself has been also been named the "Falling Star MP" by the parliamentary reporters. The reporters who voted for this reasoned that as prime minister and Pheu Thai MP, Yingluck has downplayed the importance of legislative work. The reporters also say that Yingluck has skipped some meetings, including critical ones, which were aimed at resolving disputes between the government and the opposition parties.

As Thailand has become a more deeply divisive political society, the public expects that Parliament will be a channel to sort out political differences, which could then offer a chance for real reconciliation. But the process will require honest and sincere communication to let people air their grievances and concerns. Instead, the nicknames given by the reporters suggest that politicians believe otherwise. The House failure to help people sort out their differences could possibly cause them to take to the streets in protest again.

-- The Nation 2011-12-27

[Jdietz]

As by forum rules this should be closed. Use proper names only.

[bhakta]

It is clear that as long as money buys votes and offices of influence, the hopes for Thailand, or any nation are restricted. Get money out of politics! Is that possible?

[hellodolly]

As by forum rules this should be closed. Use proper names only.

Some times the truth can be very hurtful.

Not only were their nicknames used but also their real names and the reason for the nick names.

That is how in depth reporting should be done in all reports.

[Reasonableman]

As by forum rules this should be closed. Use proper names only.

What do you mean by "closed"???

[terryp]

Nothing will ever change is this corrupt cesspit , and sadly the Thais are more than happy with the system, so they must want it

Hopefully Karma will re-balance the thieves as many of the Corrupt do get murdered here by their competitors in the trough

[Screws]

These guys are obviously not watching what has been going on in the middle east - unlike their apparently wiser brethren next left.

[Macmundi]

There is not a single good soul amongst all politicians in Thailand. I will not vote for anyone unless I see fresh faces; those that are not connected in anyways with present and past politicians.

[JurgenG]

I thought this thread was about Abhisit, the man "only good with big words".

Despite years of 24/7 propaganda, the support of the election committee, a rigged judicial system and a disgustedly biased press, he managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

And of course there is Suthep (corruption, disqualification as MP http://en.wikipedia....thep_Thaugsuban )

And we don't even talk about the appointment as foreign minister of a known terrorist, Kasit Piromya, PAD leader and as such responsible of the occupation of the government house and the closure on the international airport. Further more his total incompetence made him a total embarrassment for Thailand abroad.

_

Edited December 27, 2011 by JurgenG

[Oberkommando]

There is not a single good soul amongst all politicians in Thailand. I will not vote for anyone unless I see fresh faces; those that are not connected in anyways with present and past politicians.

They are just a product of the people they represent.

[TAWP]

And we don't even talk about the appointment as foreign minister of a known terrorist, Kasit Piromya, PAD leader and as such responsible of the occupation of the government house and the closure on the international airport. Further more his total incompetence made him a total embarrassment for Thailand abroad.

Kasit wasn't in any shape or form leader for PAD. And as such has no responsibility for the occupation of the airport.

So to sum it up:

We now have a Red Shirt apologist that claim that holding a speech, without any encouragement towards violence, makes someone a 'known terrorist' - according to JurgenG.

But bombing civilians, launching grenades on civilians and civilian places such as the BTS, encouraging people to burn down building - is not! (Just ask tlansford.)

Pathetic.

[Jdietz]

So, can we now refer to the fugitive former ex prime minister as 'Toxin' again, as it is OK when the Thais do it?

[OzMick]

I thought this thread was about Abhisit, the man "only good with big words".

Despite years of 24/7 propaganda, the support of the election committee, a rigged judicial system and a disgustedly biased press, he managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

And of course there is Suthep (corruption, disqualification as MP http://en.wikipedia....thep_Thaugsuban )

And we don't even talk about the appointment as foreign minister of a known terrorist, Kasit Piromya, PAD leader and as such responsible of the occupation of the government house and the closure on the international airport. Further more his total incompetence made him a total embarrassment for Thailand abroad.

_

The PTP party list is crawling with known terrorists whose crimes far exceed the false accusations you apply to Kasit. I wonder if they have nightmares about the 38 years given to their RPG firing lackey.

[alstaxi]

So, can we now refer to the fugitive former ex prime minister as 'Toxin' again, as it is OK when the Thais do it?

I much prefer Tacky, as he himself changed his name to, during one of his fugitive , country hopping, escape justice, get aways.

[phiphidon]

I thought this thread was about Abhisit, the man "only good with big words".

Despite years of 24/7 propaganda, the support of the election committee, a rigged judicial system and a disgustedly biased press, he managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

And of course there is Suthep (corruption, disqualification as MP http://en.wikipedia....thep_Thaugsuban )

And we don't even talk about the appointment as foreign minister of a known terrorist, Kasit Piromya, PAD leader and as such responsible of the occupation of the government house and the closure on the international airport. Further more his total incompetence made him a total embarrassment for Thailand abroad.

_

The PTP party list is crawling with known terrorists whose crimes far exceed the false accusations you apply to Kasit. I wonder if they have nightmares about the 38 years given to their RPG firing lackey.

An arrest warrant identifies the suspect in Sunday's fatal shooting of a prominent Pheu Thai-affiliated local politician in Samut Sakhon as Democrat MP Khanchit Thabsuwan.

http://www.thaivisa....in-murder-case/

[OzMick]

I thought this thread was about Abhisit, the man "only good with big words".

Despite years of 24/7 propaganda, the support of the election committee, a rigged judicial system and a disgustedly biased press, he managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

And of course there is Suthep (corruption, disqualification as MP http://en.wikipedia....thep_Thaugsuban )

And we don't even talk about the appointment as foreign minister of a known terrorist, Kasit Piromya, PAD leader and as such responsible of the occupation of the government house and the closure on the international airport. Further more his total incompetence made him a total embarrassment for Thailand abroad.

_

The PTP party list is crawling with known terrorists whose crimes far exceed the false accusations you apply to Kasit. I wonder if they have nightmares about the 38 years given to their RPG firing lackey.

An arrest warrant identifies the suspect in Sunday's fatal shooting of a prominent Pheu Thai-affiliated local politician in Samut Sakhon as Democrat MP Khanchit Thabsuwan.

http://www.thaivisa....in-murder-case/

Was just reading that thread - will quote myself:

"Weng, Nattuwat, Jatuporn and others are charged with terrorism (which resulted in 91 deaths) and have not been prosecuted because of their MP status."

"You might also reflect on the fact that he committed his alleged crime AFTER being elected, and wasn't awarded his seat as a reward for committing (alleged) crimes. "

[phiphidon]

Was just reading that thread - will quote myself:

"Weng, Nattuwat, Jatuporn and others are charged with terrorism (which resulted in 91 deaths) and have not been prosecuted because of their MP status."

"You might also reflect on the fact that he committed his alleged crime AFTER being elected, and wasn't awarded his seat as a reward for committing (alleged) crimes. "

Directly involved - I'm not aware that Weng, Nattuwat, Jatuporn et others (who are not charged with terrorism) were running around Bangkok wielding guns and shooting people dead. Not to mention that being added to the party list as MP's (one of them already being an MP) as a result of their being accused but not convicted of completely different crimes is purely supposition on your part with no proof whatsoever.

So quote yourself away - it has no bearing on what I posted.

[TAWP]

Was just reading that thread - will quote myself:

"Weng, Nattuwat, Jatuporn and others are charged with terrorism (which resulted in 91 deaths) and have not been prosecuted because of their MP status."

"You might also reflect on the fact that he committed his alleged crime AFTER being elected, and wasn't awarded his seat as a reward for committing (alleged) crimes. "

Directly involved - I'm not aware that Weng, Nattuwat, Jatuporn et others (who are not charged with terrorism) were running around Bangkok wielding guns and shooting people dead. Not to mention that being added to the party list as MP's (one of them already being an MP) as a result of their being accused but not convicted of completely different crimes is purely supposition on your part with no proof whatsoever.

So quote yourself away - it has no bearing on what I posted.

Osama was not directly involved with the actions on the ground, using those criteria.

[animatic]

As by forum rules this should be closed. Use proper names only.

What do you mean by "closed"???

Bad attempt at irony... should have added the smiley.

[phiphidon]

Was just reading that thread - will quote myself:

"Weng, Nattuwat, Jatuporn and others are charged with terrorism (which resulted in 91 deaths) and have not been prosecuted because of their MP status."

"You might also reflect on the fact that he committed his alleged crime AFTER being elected, and wasn't awarded his seat as a reward for committing (alleged) crimes. "

Directly involved - I'm not aware that Weng, Nattuwat, Jatuporn et others (who are not charged with terrorism) were running around Bangkok wielding guns and shooting people dead. Not to mention that being added to the party list as MP's (one of them already being an MP) as a result of their being accused but not convicted of completely different crimes is purely supposition on your part with no proof whatsoever.

So quote yourself away - it has no bearing on what I posted.

Osama was not directly involved with the actions on the ground, using those criteria.

I'm sorry I didn't see the part where Osama was involved, what next, a "I was only following orders" Nazi Party connection?

[473geo]

Wierd editorial......

So if OzMick (example only) was given the nickname say OzThick.......does it follow he is an abject failure and has the failed to competently carry out his political posting

Edited December 27, 2011 by 473geo

[EvilDrSomkid]

Isn't it amazing that every time there is an editorial criticizing the current government, the same people come out and moan about the Nation being biased and the old "yeah, but what about the PAD" arguments are rehashed?

It does not change anything. This government is crap, regardless of what previous governments did or did not do.

If MPs don't even bother to show up during important sessions, then that is blatant sign of disrespect and ingratitude towards their voters.

It is pathetic that Yingluck (Cinderella as she was dubbed in a previous editorial) does not ever get stuck in and answers the accusations leveled at her. She gets others to fight for her. Claims many times that she does not know what is being discussed in Parliament.

Pure incompetence. Some PM.

And then she has the NERVE to visit Suu Kyi so "support" her. Cinderella should be bowing her head to Suu Kyi's feet.

[saroq]

Nothing will ever change is this corrupt cesspit , and sadly the Thais are more than happy with the system, so they must want it

Hopefully Karma will re-balance the thieves as many of the Corrupt do get murdered here by their competitors in the trough

Thailand is little different to most other nations. Most governments are "corrupt cesspits." And I do mean the United States, British, Canadian, Australian and wherever else TV members hail from. Our own governments represent the rights of big business, are filled with corrupt politicians who enrich themselves in a number of questionable but legal ways. The same happens here.

[VoterPower]

I thought this thread was about Abhisit, the man "only good with big words".

Despite years of 24/7 propaganda, the support of the election committee, a rigged judicial system and a disgustedly biased press, he managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

And of course there is Suthep (corruption, disqualification as MP http://en.wikipedia....thep_Thaugsuban )

And we don't even talk about the appointment as foreign minister of a known terrorist, Kasit Piromya, PAD leader and as such responsible of the occupation of the government house and the closure on the international airport. Further more his total incompetence made him a total embarrassment for Thailand abroad.

_

And that is the fact

[VoterPower]

Give me a democratically elected set of politicians (Yingluk) having a go, rather than a military junta appointed lacky doing what he (abisit) is ordered

[Orac]

Isn't it amazing that every time there is an editorial criticizing the current government, the same people come out and moan about the Nation being biased and the old "yeah, but what about the PAD" arguments are rehashed?

It does not change anything. This government is crap, regardless of what previous governments did or did not do.

If MPs don't even bother to show up during important sessions, then that is blatant sign of disrespect and ingratitude towards their voters.

It is pathetic that Yingluck (Cinderella as she was dubbed in a previous editorial) does not ever get stuck in and answers the accusations leveled at her. She gets others to fight for her. Claims many times that she does not know what is being discussed in Parliament.

Pure incompetence. Some PM.

And then she has the NERVE to visit Suu Kyi so "support" her. Cinderella should be bowing her head to Suu Kyi's feet.

Since The Nation now seems to have stooped to the level of playground name calling and claiming it is an annual tradition I am not sure how the PM is supposed to reply - maybe sticking her fingers in her ears and going la-la-la-la-la is something these sorry excuses for journalists might understand.

[EvilDrSomkid]

Isn't it amazing that every time there is an editorial criticizing the current government, the same people come out and moan about the Nation being biased and the old "yeah, but what about the PAD" arguments are rehashed?

It does not change anything. This government is crap, regardless of what previous governments did or did not do.

If MPs don't even bother to show up during important sessions, then that is blatant sign of disrespect and ingratitude towards their voters.

It is pathetic that Yingluck (Cinderella as she was dubbed in a previous editorial) does not ever get stuck in and answers the accusations leveled at her. She gets others to fight for her. Claims many times that she does not know what is being discussed in Parliament.

Pure incompetence. Some PM.

And then she has the NERVE to visit Suu Kyi so "support" her. Cinderella should be bowing her head to Suu Kyi's feet.

Since The Nation now seems to have stooped to the level of playground name calling and claiming it is an annual tradition I am not sure how the PM is supposed to reply - maybe sticking her fingers in her ears and going la-la-la-la-la is something these sorry excuses for journalists might understand.

So, you disagree with the assertion of the article saying that the PTP have been ineffectual?

Nick names aside.

[Orac]

Isn't it amazing that every time there is an editorial criticizing the current government, the same people come out and moan about the Nation being biased and the old "yeah, but what about the PAD" arguments are rehashed?

It does not change anything. This government is crap, regardless of what previous governments did or did not do.

If MPs don't even bother to show up during important sessions, then that is blatant sign of disrespect and ingratitude towards their voters.

It is pathetic that Yingluck (Cinderella as she was dubbed in a previous editorial) does not ever get stuck in and answers the accusations leveled at her. She gets others to fight for her. Claims many times that she does not know what is being discussed in Parliament.

Pure incompetence. Some PM.

And then she has the NERVE to visit Suu Kyi so "support" her. Cinderella should be bowing her head to Suu Kyi's feet.

Since The Nation now seems to have stooped to the level of playground name calling and claiming it is an annual tradition I am not sure how the PM is supposed to reply - maybe sticking her fingers in her ears and going la-la-la-la-la is something these sorry excuses for journalists might understand.

So, you disagree with the assertion of the article saying that the PTP have been ineffectual?

Nick names aside.

Can't see where the article specifically says that (I could be wrong though!).

Since this is an annual award I assume it also covers the previous governments performance since they were in charge for most of the year so if the implication is that all goverments over the last year have been ineffectual then I might possibly agree as it is more even handed,however, it would have to be tempered by the fact the the PT government only came to power in August and since then has had to deal with the worst natural disaster in over 50 years so would be prepared to give them the benefit of the doubt that they maybe haven't had time to be effective yet.

[siampolee]

Thai politicians Have failed (Yet again)

They, the Thai people are fooled & hypnotized even to this hour, & most all will remain so until time is no more. Indeed the masses are but sediment from which all the more valuable elements have been long ago distilled. They are totally incapable of real freedom, & if it were granted to them they would immediately vote themselves a master, or a thousand masters. Mastership is right-Mastership is natural-Mastership is eternal,but only for those that cannot overthrow it, & trample it beneath their hoofs.

Sadly the man and the woman in the street are their own worst enemies. This applies to the greater majority of the Red Shirt movement as well as is so plainly shown by the actions of those elected (sic) to high office.

"I deny, & I affirm" is the countersign of material freedom. " I believe, & I obey" is the shibboleth of serfdom. Belief is a flunky, a feminine - doubt is a creator, a master. Strong men are not deterred from their goal by anything. They go straight to the goal, & that goal is Beauty, Wealth & Material Power. There will always be the master & the slave - the ruler & the ruled. Human rights & wrongs are not determined by justice, but by Might. Indeed a sad motto

Edited December 27, 2011 by siampolee

[EvilDrSomkid]

Can't see where the article specifically says that (I could be wrong though!).

Since this is an annual award I assume it also covers the previous governments performance since they were in charge for most of the year so if the implication is that all goverments over the last year have been ineffectual then I might possibly agree as it is more even handed,however, it would have to be tempered by the fact the the PT government only came to power in August and since then has had to deal with the worst natural disaster in over 50 years so would be prepared to give them the benefit of the doubt that they maybe haven't had time to be effective yet.

Well, let's see now what the article said: (forgive me for quoting selectively)

"Thai politicians have failed the people yet again

...New nicknames given to MPs reflect public disappointment at the abject failure of elected representatives to carry out even their most basic duties to an acceptable standard...

... with the theme this year reflecting the overall poor performance of all politicians, ..

... our politicians have once again failed to impress the media and the public in spite of our high expectations.

...since being elected, some Pheu Thai politicians have missed many parliamentary meetings, even though the House sessions are deemed by them as being essential to the democratic system...

They have refused to answer some questions during House meetings. These politicians often say that they have received a mandate from the voters and they have no need to respond to concerns raised by their opponents...

The entire Senate chamber has been dubbed "Sangkhaloke" or antique chinaware. The name is a metaphor, alluding to the general lacklustre performance of the chamber. This is because although antique chinaware can be of great value, it may not really offer any practical use.

Another unpleasant and surprising development is that reporters this year have refrained from nominating any politician as an "Outstanding Lawmaker" - because none of them has been impressive in performing even basic duties. The public expects more from elected representatives.

...only to see politicians skipping the sessions or failing to address their concerns. The legislative highlight of the year has been nothing to celebrate...

Yingluck herself has been also been named the "Falling Star MP" by the parliamentary reporters. ...Yingluck has downplayed the importance of legislative work....

The reporters also say that Yingluck has skipped some meetings, including critical ones, which were aimed at resolving disputes between the government and the opposition parties."

If I may be so bold, I would say that the summation: "Ineffectual" would be appropriate.

And going out on a limb here, I would dare say that the opinion of the Nation is just as valid as your opinion.

The nick name thing might be a little childish, but who cares? Better they are tongue in cheek than tongue up ass(cheek), chai mai?