Democrats Will Never Join Pheu Thai Government: Former Premier Abhisit

[webfact]

Democrats will never join Pheu Thai government: Former premier Abhisit

BANGKOK, June 18 - Thailand's opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva on Monday stood firm in his stance that his Democrat Party has no plan to join the Pheu Thai-led government as earlier proposed by ousted ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra

The Democrat leader made clear his stance after the party's former secretary-general Suthep Thaugsuban revealed that convicted ex-premier Thaksin had sent mediators to invite the Democrat party to join the government in exchange for the party not objecting to the attempted rewriting of the Constitution and the passage of a national reconciliation bill.

Mr Abhisit said Mr Suthep kept him informed in a timely manner on the issue and the Thaksin-proposal to form a two-party government.

He said he had already informed the Democrat party executives of the matter.

"I reaffirm that the Democrat party has never had any [such] plan on that and everyone agrees that the party will not join the Pheu Thai-led government but [we] were still contacted," said Mr Abhisit.

Mr Thaksin can do anything for his own benefit and the move might only be an attempt to test the water, Mr Abhisit said.

The Democrat leader said that Mr Suthep's report regarding Mr Thaksin was accurate.

Mr Suthep on Monday stood by his claim, saying he disclosed the details following Defence Minister Sukampol Suwannathat’s claim that no one, including the army, wants to work with the Democrat party.

Mr Suthep said that Mr Thaksin sought negotiations via mediators several times. The first time was in January, mediated by two non-partisan women of high social rank. They invited Mr Suthep to talk with Mr Thaksin in Dubai where he now stays in self-exile, or any country convenient for Mr Suthep.

The former deputy premier said at that time he rejected the invitation and the last contact occurred on June 3 at 5.45pm. He was invited to the home of a prominent figure.

Mr Suthep claimed he was asked that the Democrat party stop opposing the charter amendment and the reconciliation bill, and to stop the Democrat’s ongoing rallies against the government in exchange for participation in the coalition government and ceasing legal action against Mr Suthep and his son over alleged illegal land possession.

The former Democrat executive said he rejected the request and pledged to fight his case in court.

Mr Suthep said he last met Mr Thaksin in 2006, before the 19 September coup, at Phitsanulok House, seeking to ease political deadlock during that period and that they have not met since then.

Meanwhile, Pheu Thai MP and key red shirt leader Korkaew Pikulthong dismissed Mr Suthep's claims, saying the invitation is impossible and that the Democrat move is aimed to distance the Red Shirts from the ruling party.

"Mr Suthep's remark is groundless. It's just the Democrats' ploy to sow mistrust among the red shirts against Thaksin and vent their anger against the government," he said. "Mr Suthep sees that the government could be toppled like [those of the] Somchai and Samak administrations if (the Democrats) successfully pit the Red Shirts against the Pheu Thai.”

Mr Korkaew noted that if the negotiations did exist, the Pheu Thai party could be broken.

"A hundred of my fellow red shirts had lost their lives,” he said. “It's impossible that I would join with Mr Suthep."

The Red Shirt leader said he is confident that the ex-premier would not make an alliance with the Democrats as then he could not answer the public. (MCOT online news)

-- TNA 2012-06-18

[birdpooguava]

In this day & age... let's have some proof thanks Suthep. For one who rushes to say Jatuporn makes false accusations, let's see him back up his far fetched tale.

[phiphidon]

In this day & age... let's have some proof thanks Suthep. For one who rushes to say Jatuporn makes false accusations, let's see him back up his far fetched tale.

The PTP are still waiting for abhisit to provide his proof that thaksin met with the southern insurgents, so I wouldn't hold your breath with this lot.

[Thaddeus]

Meanwhile, Pheu Thai MP and key red shirt leader Korkaew Pikulthong dismissed Mr Suthep's claims, saying the invitation is impossible and that the Democrat move is aimed to distance the Red Shirts from the ruling party.

"Mr Suthep's remark is groundless. It's just the Democrats' ploy to sow mistrust among the red shirts against Thaksin and vent their anger against the government," he said. "Mr Suthep sees that the government could be toppled like [those of the] Somchai and Samak administrations if (the Democrats) successfully pit the Red Shirts against the Pheu Thai.”

Khun Korkaew sounds a bit annoyed about not being in the loop.

[tlansford]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

[lannarebirth]

Meanwhile, Pheu Thai MP and key red shirt leader Korkaew Pikulthong dismissed Mr Suthep's claims, saying the invitation is impossible and that the Democrat move is aimed to distance the Red Shirts from the ruling party.

"Mr Suthep's remark is groundless. It's just the Democrats' ploy to sow mistrust among the red shirts against Thaksin and vent their anger against the government," he said. "Mr Suthep sees that the government could be toppled like [those of the] Somchai and Samak administrations if (the Democrats) successfully pit the Red Shirts against the Pheu Thai.”

Khun Korkaew sounds a bit annoyed about not being in the loop.

The plot thickens....

Not today, and probably not tomorrow, the Red Shirts, the real ones, are going to break away from Thaksin. I't's going to be curious to see if their "leaders" stick with the cause and it's ideals or if they follow the money and stick with the paymaster. Won't Amsterdam be spinning things then.

Edited June 18, 2012 by lannarebirth

[Unkomoncents]

The Democrat leader made clear his stance after the party's former secretary-general Suthep Thaugsuban revealed that convicted ex-premier Thaksin had sent mediators to invite the Democrat party to join the government in exchange for the party not objecting to the attempted rewriting of the Constitution and the passage of a national reconciliation bill.

Yeah, don't worry, we're just over here in the corner rewriting the constitution. Nothing to worry about. Mai pen rai, sabai, sabai.

Edited June 18, 2012 by Unkomoncents

[carra]

If suthep told me it was raining i would look outside and check, same with abhisit to be fair, and while I am on the subject ALL thai politicians,

[ballpoint]

Meanwhile, Pheu Thai MP and key red shirt leader Korkaew Pikulthong dismissed Mr Suthep's claims, saying the invitation is impossible and that the Democrat move is aimed to distance the Red Shirts from the ruling party.

"Mr Suthep's remark is groundless. It's just the Democrats' ploy to sow mistrust among the red shirts against Thaksin and vent their anger against the government," he said. "Mr Suthep sees that the government could be toppled like [those of the] Somchai and Samak administrations if (the Democrats) successfully pit the Red Shirts against the Pheu Thai.”

Khun Korkaew sounds a bit annoyed about not being in the loop.

The plot thickens....

Not today, and probably not tomorrow, the Red Shirts, the real ones, are going to break away from Thaksin. I't's going to be curious to see if their "leaders" stick with the cause and it's ideals or if they follow the money and stick with the paymaster. Won't Amsterdam be spinning things then.

It will also be interesting to see in which direction their devotees here go. Given that a number who were previously pleading "we're in it for the sake of the poor" have now changed their tune to "we support the current government, no matter how many promises to the poor they've broken", I'd say most will go with the money.

[Rancid]

Should have offered them the Ministry of Transport, all those infrastructure deals are the game changer. There again perhaps too many snouts and not enough lucrative ministries to share around...the true bane of politics.

[animatic]

Thaksin really has to 'adjust the meds'....

[animatic]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

He would figure Suthep is still influential and that he has something to lose and gain in a deal.

[whybother]

Sometimes, reporters just ask stupid questions.

[Bluespunk]

Sometimes, reporters just ask stupid questions.

Only sometimes?

[lannarebirth]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

He would figure Suthep is still influential and that he has something to lose and gain in a deal.

Suthep exists to play such roles. He allows both sides to either confirm or deny a meeting as they see fit.

[phiphidon]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

He would figure Suthep is still influential and that he has something to lose and gain in a deal.

Suthep exists to play such roles. He allows both sides to either confirm or deny a meeting as they see fit.

Or perhaps he is just lying through his teeth, again.

[Siripon]

It makes complete sense to Thaksin, what are Pheua Thai to him? Simply the vehicle to gain power.Every MP has already signed an undated letter of resignation, which is kept by him. They are simply pawns like the red shirts to him.Thaksin thinks everyone is as greedy as him, if he offers Cabinet positions to the Democrats, they'll readily accept in his mind. He only understands power and money, his 3 children, for instance, were all given names signifying wealth.Suthep is still a powerful figure in the Democrat party, how many people even know who is the current Secretary General, Mr Chalermchai?It fits in with Thaksin's modus operandi, namely fight and negotiate, alternatively, or at the same time.Don't forget Yingluk has been to see General Prem 3 times since she became PM. and her half-hearted dismissal of Suthep's claim as unlikely didn't sound convincing.A dilemma for the red shirt leaders, they know they are nothing without Thaksin, but more and more his selfishness and self- centredness is being exposed to all.

Edited June 18, 2012 by Siripon

[ramrod711]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

He would figure Suthep is still influential and that he has something to lose and gain in a deal.

Suthep exists to play such roles. He allows both sides to either confirm or deny a meeting as they see fit.

Or perhaps he is just lying through his teeth, again.

I know that it is impossible for you to be unbiased, but try to consider for one moment that Thaksin might be lying...again. Then consider what Thaksin stands to gain if the PAD is neutralized. Sorry, I already stated that it's impossible for you......forget it.

[tlansford]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

He would figure Suthep is still influential and that he has something to lose and gain in a deal.

Suthep exists to play such roles. He allows both sides to either confirm or deny a meeting as they see fit.

Or perhaps he is just lying through his teeth, again.

Given his history, that is perhaps the most likely scenario. My speculation : there is some contact but Suthep is fabricating this version completely. I say that since I still do not see any sense in this kind of a deal for either side. But it could be a good attempt to create a wedge issue for Suthep's opponents. That is the only use of this story that I see.

[letitbe]

Taksin suggested so his 1 party state and total control can never be opposed and all at top table can gorge at trough while rest of Thailand simply become total slaves. Very clever join my table and youll be fabulously rich toe my line and no descent and you will have more than you could ever dream off. If you oppose ill let my dogs loose. Animal farm.

[animatic]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

He would figure Suthep is still influential and that he has something to lose and gain in a deal.

Suthep exists to play such roles. He allows both sides to either confirm or deny a meeting as they see fit.

Or perhaps he is just lying through his teeth, again.

As could be most any player in Thai politics.

So what is special in this case.

Oh yeah, he's not the Liar In Chief,

your adored Thaksin.

Edited June 18, 2012 by animatic

[lungmi]

In this day & age... let's have some proof thanks Suthep. For one who rushes to say Jatuporn makes false accusations, let's see him back up his far fetched tale.

I don't understand your post. That Jatuporn makes false accusations is part of the general education of educated people. But Suthep to copy Jatuporn? He would be a loser.

[lungmi]

In this day & age... let's have some proof thanks Suthep. For one who rushes to say Jatuporn makes false accusations, let's see him back up his far fetched tale.

The PTP are still waiting for abhisit to provide his proof that thaksin met with the southern insurgents, so I wouldn't hold your breath with this lot.

The PTP never would accept any proof (selective perception syndrome) by the Dems

[lungmi]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

for you

[tlansford]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

for you

that makes it sound like you see a benefit to the PTP and the Dems to form a 2 party coalition...

[phiphidon]

I know that it is impossible for you to be unbiased, but try to consider for one moment that Thaksin might be lying...again. Then consider what Thaksin stands to gain if the PAD is neutralized. Sorry, I already stated that it's impossible for you......forget it.

Already forgotten, sorry do I know you, you seem to know all about me?

[lannarebirth]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

for you

that makes it sound like you see a benefit to the PTP and the Dems to form a 2 party coalition...

This isn't Kansas anymore Dorothy. Read again Siripon's excellent encapsulation of Thaksin's character. He's a sociopathic autocrat.

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/563520-democrats-will-never-join-pheu-thai-government-former-premier-abhisit/#entry5402663

[ThaiOats]

Like I said in another post, Suthep had better be smart and have evidence. Abhisit needs to check the authenticity and evidence before allowing his deputy to make such proclamations. If it's just another lie by Suthep, then I too will start disbelieving in the Democrat's integrity. There's a lot for the Democrats to lose if they can't prove it and resorting to cheap tricks. I expect that from the PTP not Democrats.

[phiphidon]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

for you

that makes it sound like you see a benefit to the PTP and the Dems to form a 2 party coalition...

This isn't Kansas anymore Dorothy. Read again Siripon's excellent encapsulation of Thaksin's character. He's a sociopathic autocrat.

http://www.thaivisa....t/#entry5402663

OK Siripon does hit the max on the hyperbole meter more than most, but sociopathic autocrat - he's not that bad................

[lungmi]

Suthep, a truly honest politician.

It would not surprise me at all if Thaksin is making overtures in the background with people who matter ... But I can't see how that would include Suthep.

While nothing is impossible, where is the advantage for either the PTP or the Democrats in this alleged proposal? It doesn't make sense...

for you

that makes it sound like you see a benefit to the PTP and the Dems to form a 2 party coalition...

Your conclusion. I follow polyvalent logic.