Preparations For Feb. 26th Anti-Government Protest

[sriracha john]

Book outlines key issues in Shin takeover scandal

A pocket book explaining the key legal and moral issues surrounding the sale of Shin Corp to Temasek Holdings of Singapore will be distributed to the public from Thursday as part of a campaign against the controversial mega-deal.

The title of the book is “When Legal Grounds Supersede Moral Righteousness: An Analysis of 25 Questions Surrounding the Takeover of Shin Corp”.

The two authors, who have called themselves “Ma Nok” (foreign horse) and “Dek Nok Krop” (out-of-the-box kid), have analys-ed the Shin deal thoroughly.

“We plan to publish about 10,000 copies of this book, which will be distributed to the public, including independent agencies, NGOs, student bodies, academic institutions and the media, among others,” said one of the sponsors of the book.

“We also plan to distribute the book on February 26 during the rally at Sanam Luang to call for the resignation of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.”

The book – about 100 pages – seeks to explain in detail the five major issues surrounding the Shin Corp takeover, from legal and moral perspectives. The topics include Temasek’s takeover of Shin, the tender offer, alleged insider-trading violations and information disclosure, Ample Rich Investments and the tax burden of the whole deal.

On the takeover of Shin, the book argues that Temasek’s establishment of several holding companies, such as Kularb Kaew Co Ltd, Cedar Holdings Co Ltd and Aspen Holdings Co Ltd, to enable the takeover was legal – but morally questionable. While technically Shin remains a Thai company, “its heart is already Singaporean”. Representatives of Temasek control preferred shares of these holding companies, which allows them to outvote Thai shareholders for eventual control of Shin Corp.

The authors of the book also question whether Temasek should launch a tender offer for other subsidiaries of Shin aside from just Advanced Info Service (AIS) – such as Shin Satellite, ITV and CS Loxinfo. Legally, Temasek can refrain from making a tender for Shin Satellite, ITV and CS Loxinfo, but morally it should have done so.

Meanwhile, before the Shin deal was announced, the PM’s sister Yingluck Shinawatra is alleged to have unloaded AIS stocks. The book questions whether any of these sales could be considered insider trading. It also notes that while there were rumours all along about the impending Shin sale, the Stock Exchange of Thailand did virtually nothing to halt trading in Shin shares.

On both matters, the authors said there were grounds to question Yingluck for alleged insider trading. The Stock Exchange of Thailand was also accused of double standards for refusing to act on the rumours of the Shin deal.

All deals involving Ample Rich Investments looked ugly, and bordered on legal and moral violations, the book said. Thaksin set up Ample Rich in 1999 and transferred just under 11 per cent of Shin stocks to this company, incorporated in the British Virgin Islands tax haven.

The PM said before entering politics he transferred Ample Rich to his son, Panthongtae. But after the Shin shares where put in his name, Panthongtae failed to notify the Securities and Exchange Commission, which requires public disclosure for any change of more than 5 per cent share ownership. Moreover, Panthongtae’s holdings in Shin, when combined with his ownership of Ample Rich, exceeded 25 per cent – which would require him to make an offer for all shares in Shin. But Panthongtae did not report holding more than 25 per cent of the Shin stocks to the exchange authorities.

The Securities and Exchange Commission is now investigating Panthongtae’s and his sister Pinthongta’s relationship with Ample Rich, by requiring them to submit all their documentation. The SEC is expected to conclude its investigation his week, after which Panthongtae is expected to face a fine for violating rules in regard to information disclosure and public tender offers.

The book also covers the Shinawatra and Damapong families’ transfer of stocks among themselves between 1999 and 2002 without having to pay tax. This share transfer must be taxed, the book said. Ample Rich’s transfer of Shin stocks to Panthongtae and Pinthongta on January 20 this year at Bt1 a share before the two sold to Temasek for Bt49.25 a share must also be subject to tax, it said.

In the end, the book leaves it to readers to judge for themselves whether the whole Shin deal is legal or morally right. But it is clear the huge deal violates several legal rules and breaches moral standards.

[sriracha john]

[asd]

The great man from May 1992 is back.

Maj-Gen Chamlong Srimuang stepped out of the political sidelines and into the limelight yesterday when he officially announced his intention to join the mass rally in Sanam Luang on February 26 and asked Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to resign.

The man who led the nation in bringing down the country's last military tyrant during the May 1992 popular uprising, Chamlong will return to the streets once more, but this time to bring down the man he personally propelled to political prominence.

The involvement of the former Palang Dharma party leader will greatly strengthen the rally, spearheaded by the People's Alliance for Democracy, a coalition of academics, pro-democracy activists and numerous civic groups who joined forces to oust Thaksin, whom they label morally illegitimate.

"Thaksin changed the telecommunication laws to raise foreign ownership to 49 percent from the previous 25 percent and his family sold their entire holdings in Shin Corp two days after the law was enforced," Chamlong said. "The prime minister intentionally changed the law for the sale."

Chamlong also insisted that Thaksin can no longer hide behind the claim that he is supported by 19 million "I am one of the 19 million", Chamlong said, " the mandate is not permanent and can change when justice is not being served."

"Democracy does not exist only on election day," Chamlong added, "...the people remain the owner of it."

Chamlong stated that the circumstances of the February 26 rally must be taken into account because people will be there in all sincerity.

From Thaiday : Manager Online

God bless you for Feb. 26th anti-government protest.

Edited February 21, 2006 by asd

[sriracha john]

Thaksin is backed into a corner

The premier has only two real options left: resign or dissolve the House to make way for a snap election

Thai Rak Thai Party leader Thaksin Shinawatra, who was returned as a second-term prime minister just one year ago with an unprecedented parliamentary majority, could not have foreseen that on-again off-again questions about his credibility would escalate into a broad-based challenge to his legitimacy to rule. In less than four weeks since he and his family sold their controlling stake in Shin Corp to Singapore’s Temasek Holdings – for a tax-free Bt73.3 billion – the prime minister finds himself fighting for his political life.

The telecom tycoon-turned-politician must have been so blinded by his arrogance of power that he failed to see there were limits to the Thai public’s seemingly boundless capacity for forgiveness.

The prime minister, once universally popular and who counted among his supporters a wide cross-section of the Thai population, must have thought he could get away with virtually any transgression, including obviously self-serving and morally repugnant ones, provided they were cloaked in legal and technical ambiguities.

Thaksin must have calculated cynically that any doubts about his personal integrity on the part of his gullible and attention-deficient supporters could simply be wiped clean the next time he doled out yet another populist perk.

He is now discovering that he could not have been more wrong about how far he could go in indulging in the incestuous relationship between political power and selfish interest. As it turned out, the clinching of the lucrative deal with Temasek was the final straw, with the PM exposed for the kind of leader he actually is and always has been.

It has become clear that being the most fabulously wealthy politician ever to have entered Thai politics did not make him less susceptible to corruption accusations after all. Alleged underhanded manipulation of government regulatory bodies and the use of shady business transactions to maximise family profits at the expense of the public interest also gave the lie to Thaksin’s pledge to put his business acumen at the service of the people. Like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle falling into place, the Shin Corp sell-off is now seen as the culmination of an unbroken string of corruption scandals occurring under Thaksin’s watch these five years he’s been in power.

To be fair, Thaksin’s oft-repeated claim that 19 million voters supported his Thai Rak Thai Party, and by extension his premiership, should not be rejected out of hand. It is not too difficult to see why Thaksin’s unparalleled powers of patronage should continue to enjoy relatively strong support among the poverty-stricken rural folk who form the core of his power base and are addicted to his populist brand of politics. But the support given to Thaksin and his party has now been counterbalanced to some extent by the growing ranks of urban middle class turning against him. Besides, electoral support must not be considered a licence to engage in the corrupt practices the Thaksin administration stands accused of.

And the growing anger and frustration of the politically powerful middle class and civil society should not be discounted. No democratically elected government in modern Thai history has ever faced similar widespread opposition from those quarters and survived. The latest and most notable example was the short-lived government of General Suchinda Kraprayoon, who was toppled only weeks after assuming power in a popular 1992 uprising, for his perceived lack of legitimacy to rule.

Faced with this potentially explosive challenge to his leadership, Thaksin has already deployed a series of delaying tactics, ranging from a vague proposal on constitutional amendments, consultation with academics and now an extraordinary parliamentary session to debate how his government can disentangle itself from this “political disturbance” of its own making.

It’s high time that Thaksin realised he has only two viable options left: resign or dissolve the House of Representatives to pave the way for a snap election. The prime minister’s miscalculation in several of his most recent moves has landed him in the worst crisis of his political career. He can ill afford any further misjudgement of this most volatile of situations.

- The Nation Editorial

[penzman]

Either way, he's screwed.

I suspect that upon his resignation, he would be swiftly escorted somewhere to answer some long unanswered questions along with many others.

A snap election may get him reelected but that won't solve his problems. The PAD will still be on his arse like Oprah on a glazed ham.

[Jai Dee]

Assembly of the Poor members gather at Parliament yesterday to open their ‘village’ and present their views on how the government has failed to resolve their problems.

Source: The Nation - Tue, February 21, 2006

[Jai Dee]

PM said the cabinet will endorse a motion to call a special session during a meeting today.

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinnawat (ทักษิณ ชินวัตร) said that the cabinet will endorse a motion to call a special parliament session during a meeting today.

Prime Minister Thaksin said that the government intends to open parliament session on March 4, and the first meeting will begin on March 8. he said that the government will submit a letter to the House speaker. However, he said that the parliament will decide on the number of days for discussions. As for whether the meeting will reduce current political tension, the premier said that he does not know, adding that the government is performing duties under the Constitution.

Meanwhile, government spokesperson Surapong Suebwonglee (สุรพงษ์ สืบวงศ์ลี) said that during the joint parliament session, the government will explain issues currently being questioned by society, adding that the government is ready to answer all issues.

As for the participation of Major-general Chamlong Srimuang (จำลอง ศรีเมือง) in this Sunday’s rally, Dr. Surapong said that the government would like protestors to conduct their rally peacefully. He said that officials have been told to be patient and not resort to violence. He urged protest leaders to take into account the safety of demonstrators.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 21 Febuary 2006

[Jai Dee]

The opposition parties have charged that joint parliament session will not prove useful if the issues debated are not the ones society asks.

The opposition parties have charged that joint parliament session will not prove useful if the issues debated are not the ones society asks, adding that no-confidence debate will be the best way out.

Democrat party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva (อภิสิทธิ์ เวชชาชีวะ) commented on the government’s plan to call a joint parliament session that if the government sets up its own agendas, the meeting will not be beneficial, as the issues should be the ones the people are discussing. He said that the opposition parties will continue with their move to file a no-confidence motion against the premier, adding that the opposition whip will go to Government House today to urge the government to keep its promise to allow government MPs to sign the petition, if the opposition does not have enough votes to call a no-confidence debate.

Chart Thai party leader Banharn Silapa-archa (นายบรรหาร ศิลปอาชา) said that it is up to the government whether it is sincere to solve the problems in parliament. He said that the government should allow all sides, especially the opposition to ask any issues in question. He added that the Sunday rally, joined by Major-general Chamlong Srimuang (จำลอง ศรีเมือง) will not result in violence, but he urged the government not to block the rally as it will put more pressure on protestors and raise tensions.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 21 Febuary 2006

[Jai Dee]

About 100 people encourages PM to keep on working for the country

About 100 people traveled to the Government House to encourage Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to keep on working for the country.

The atmosphere before the Cabinet meeting at the Government House was lively as a large number of people from Bangkok and vicinities showed up to support the premier in fighting against furious criticisms. The supporters have handed a pink heart-shaped pin to the Prime Minister, while requesting him not to give up.

One of the people confirmed that he himself is willing to come to cheer for Dr. Thaksin.

Meanwhile, the Opposition’s has demanded him to allow his members sign their names, in order to arrange a no-confidence motion. However, the premier's follower said that such political action is not normal.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 21 Febuary 2006

[Jai Dee]

Gen. Panlop predicts number of people who will be joining the demonstration on the 26th of Feb will be more than those who joined the demonstration in May 1992

The Deputy Director of Internal Security Office, General Panlop Pinmanee (พัลลภ ปิ่นมณี) talked about the rally planned on the 26th of February that the number of people joining the rally will be greater than those who gathered in May 1992 since they are pressurized against the performances of the government.

He said it is unable to predict whether the violence will take place or not since it depends on the patience of the police officials to control the movement.

He is confident that Commander in Chief Sonthi Boonyaratkalin (สนธิ บุญยรัตกลิน) will not use the army force to dissolve the demonstration and believes that the government will not impose emergency Decree as a mean to use army force.

Gen. Panlop said the Internal Security Office has cooperated with Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Chitchai Wannasathit(ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์) by appointing related officials to closely follow up with the movement and to prevent the third party from creating any chaos.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 21 Febuary 2006

[bulmercke]

There was an interesting quote from Chamlong tucked away on the inside pages of The Nation today, in which he envisages the protest at Sanam Luang being on a day to day basis - with people meeting in the evenings and staying overnight - just like events before.

And not just a one day (and night) meet as has been the case with the previous rallies at Lumpini and the Royal Plaza.

I really don't think there'll be any trouble on Sunday, because for one - the government will, as has been the case on all the other occasions anti-Thaksin supporters have met recently, want to take stock of the situation and see how many people actually turn up, and secondly guage what sort of mood their in and whether there are any provocative and potentially violent elements amongst those same people.

The incidence for a situation where there might be trouble could be in the small hours of the following morning when the number of protesters still at Sanam Luang has reduced drastically.

Or the following day, if protesters continue to remain at Sanam Luang or in the following days or even weeks - if the protest escalates and there is an on-going ever present presence; this could wear the patience of the government or some other group closely allied to it.

Just my consideration on the situation. But, the likelihood of there being violence is high now.

There's also a possibility that pro-Thaksin supporters might use (infiltrate) the activities located adjacent to the area occupied by the anti-Thaksin supporters to mount or instigate some kind of volatile incident.

In short, anthing could happen in the next week or weeks and probably will!

[Butterfly]

BBC reported that Thaksin was about to dissolve Parliament and call for an early election

[sriracha john]

There was an interesting quote from Chamlong tucked away on the inside pages of The Nation today, in which he envisages the protest at Sanam Luang being on a day to day basis - with people meeting in the evenings and staying overnight - just like events before.

And not just a one day (and night) meet as has been the case with the previous rallies at Lumpini and the Royal Plaza.

Chamlong: We'll carry on till PM quits

'Dharma Army' to join Sanam Luang protests

POST REPORTERS

Chamlong Srimuang has announced that members of his ''Dharma Army'' foundation nationwide will be mobilised to hook up with the anti-Thaksin rally planned for Sunday at Sanam Luang and will continue the campaign until Mr Thaksin steps down. The former leader of the Palang Dharma party made it clear his alliance would not settle for anything less than Mr Thaksin's resignation.

A House dissolution would be out of the question because it could bring Mr Thaksin back to power, he said.

Maj-Gen Chamlong said he had introduced Mr Thaksin to politics, an act he likened to releasing a troll from a dungeon. The time is now ripe to bring the giant back to the den and lock him up, he said.

Maj-Gen Chamlong, the former mentor of Mr Thaksin who has turned against him, said the prime minister's lack of legitimacy makes it pointless for him to cling on to power and for him to try to stage a come-back.

He insisted that the only option now was for the prime minister to tender his resignation letter to end all the problems besetting the country.

For the upcoming rally, a large crowd of Santi Asoke (their Center was bombed early this morning: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=61103 ) members from nine main networks in Si Sa Ket, Ubon Ratchathani, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Chiang Mai, Trang, Nakhon Pathom, Chaiyaphum, and Bangkok are scheduled to arrive at the rally venue in the early afternoon of Sunday.

Vegetarian kitchens will be set up to facilitate the lengthy demonstration. Only Maj-Gen Chamlong will be on stage while the members will be told to gather in a peaceful and humble manner.

Maj-Gen Chamlong is known to enjoy close ties with the Santi Asoke, a Buddhist sect, which claims to have followers in many provinces.

Suriyasai Katasila, secretary-general of the Campaign for Popular Democracy, said: ''All parties agree to create a new chapter in mass rallies. Sunday's demonstration will be staged peacefully.''

He said he expected no less than 200,000 people to join the gathering.

Chief of Sima Asoke, Samana Srangtai Paneetoh, said members of the Sima Asoke, a branch of Santi Asoke so named from the province where it is located, will make an early journey to Santi Asoke on Friday in two busloads.

Bangkok City Clerk Nathanon Thavisin said the demonstrators are allowed to occupy Sanam Luang only on Sunday, but if the protest continues, City Hall may let the timing slide. Protesters are asked to gather peacefully.

Puthipong Poonakan, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration spokesman, said Sanam Luang could accommodate only around 30,000-40,000 protesters.

Sirichai Mai-ngarm, secretary-general of the State Enterprise Labour Relations Confederation and representatives of the Thai Sports Association which will share Sanam Luang with the anti-Thaksin rally, said the association would occupy the ground from the morning to the afternoon. It will clean up and hand over the venue to the rallygoers in the late-afternoon.

From Sunday morning to afternoon, half of Sanam Luang on the Temple of the Emerald Buddha's side will be reserved for the National Cooperatives Day's event and that on the Pin Klao Bridge's side for the final round of the sepak takraw competition of the Thai Sports Association.

[Jai Dee]

Agriculture Minister warns protestors to avoid using violence this Sunday.

Agriculture Minister Khunying Sudarat Keyurapan (สุดารัตน์ เกยุราพันธุ์ ) called on protestors joining the rally this Sunday to avoid violence.

Khunying Sudarat commented on the participation of Major-general Chamlong Srimuang (จำลอง ศรีเมือง) in the demonstration this Sunday to oust the premier that it is the right of the people to gather and protest. She said that the government can only provide safety for them.

However, she said that according the democratic system, there are other options, some of which have already been carried out. She said that the options ranges from signature gathering for the impeachment of the premier to the debate in the parliament, which has been scheduled early next month.

Therefore , she noted that as this year is the 60th anniversary of His Majesty the King’s accession to the throne, protestors should not resort to violence, as chaotic situation is not appropriate.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 22 Febuary 2006

[Jai Dee]

Government will give the opportunity for people to exercise freedom of expression under the democratic framework

Government spokesperson Surapong Suebwonglee (สุรพงษ์ สืบวงศ์ลี) said that the government is willing to let general public express opinions in accordance with Democratic system but the movement must proceed in peace and protestors should respect the rules and regulations.

Mr. Surapong has urged the core leaders and people who would be joining the rally on the 26th of February to proceed the rally in a peaceful manner. He added that there should be no interference from any party and no violence should occur as well.

He referred to the rallies which took place on the 4th and 11th of February as a new political dimension. He said the incidents have shown that the demonstration with large amount of people does not mean that there will be violence or that any immediate political changes will occur.

However, he stated that related officials have been instructed to provide security and to be patient when dealing with such situation.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 22 Febuary 2006

[Jai Dee]

Thai people in Los Angeles send a letter of encouragement to PM Thaksin

Foreign Affairs Minister Kantathi Suphamongkhon (กันตธีร์ ศุภมงคล) said that overseas Thai residing in Los Angeles had sent a letter of encouragement to the Thai premier, disclosed that Thai people in Los Angeles has sent an encouraging letter to Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to continue his task.

He referred to the news claiming that the Thai people in Los Angeles in America are gathering 10,000 Thai people’s names to force the resignation of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

He said that he is confused with the matter because currently, more than 1,000 letters from Thai people in Los Angeles have sent letters to PM Thaksin and encourage him to continue with his good work.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 22 Febuary 2006

[marquess]

If they love him so much, why are they living there instead of here?

[dan10400]

Book outlines key issues in Shin takeover scandal

anybody know if these are available online, thai or english?

[bulmercke]

Manager Online | News

COMMENTARY: A worrisome situation indeed

By Chainarong Somsaman 22 February 2006 15:32

In spite of the worrisome situation that confronts the government, it is trying its utmost to put on a brave face and pretend that everything is under control. But alert members of the public cannot help but notice that the government is very worried about its future indeed.

Nearly all of the government’s actions are direct opposites to its words. Small wonder that people view the government’s behavior as a tragedy laced with comedy.

Several months ago, Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra said that during the remaining three years of his government’s second four-year term, he and members of his ruling Thai Rak Thai party (TRT) would concentrate on work and would not give interviews on political matters. But it is obvious that people in the government are spending nearly all their waking hours talking about politics. Their interviews, opinions and reactions revolve around amendments to the Constitution, a dissolution of Parliament, the possible resignation of the prime minister and other political issues.

The government once asked people not to establish companies in the British Virgin Islands to avoid or evade tax, denouncing those who do so as traitors. Following the controversial sale of the prime minister’s family’s Shin Corp shares last month, people who dug into the matter discovered that the prime minister himself registered a company in that tax haven and widely perceived money-laundering shelter to park his Shin Corp shares. Coupled with his other unethical practices that have since come to light, it is no surprise that the integrity of the prime minister is in tatters.

Furthermore, the government once declared that the current “People’s Constitution” is the best Thailand has had. The government promised that it would not amend the Constitution, but that it would not obstruct those seeking constitutional amendments.

Today, however, the government is talking about political reform and constitutional amendments. In line with its overall insincere conduct, the government coyly wants to project the impression that it is not the initiator of any amendment. PM Thaksin has allocated funds to universities to study whether the 1997 Constitution should be revised and, if so, how.

On this matter, critics say that, by assigning universities to propose constitutional amendments, the government is sowing discord among university lecturers, while the people’s outcry for amending for amending some articles of the Constitution is ignored. Some people say the prime minister is merely stalling and diverting attention away from the academic sector’s growing calls for his resignation or removal. He probably thinks that this tactic will put an end to the pressure exerted on him by lecturers and students.

His move has had the opposite effect, for it has led to more academics and students forming the opinion that the government is insulting them with its obvious insincerity. As a result, groups of lecturers and students throughout the country are telling the public the truth about the adverse consequences of Thaksin’s policies.

Hopefully, the government will soon realize the errors of its ways and turn over a new leaf. Unfortunately, this is probably wishful thinking, as the government has become so used to exercising state power and disbursing public money on populist programs that it has lost touch with reality.

Thaksin and his party members are intoxicated with power, and they seem bent on continuing to behave without taking morals, ethics and the people’s sentiments into account. Perhaps they think nobody can stand in their way, or they can deal with their opponents easily. Whatever the correct reasons, it is clear that more and more of the people in all walks of life are joining the drive to oust Thaksin from politics.

The government is so blinded by the success of its measures against some of its opponents that it cannot see its many failures. In the final analysis, a single failure is enough to topple the government.

The case of the dean of Chulalongkorn University’s faculty of political science, who is among the intellectuals agitating for Thaksin’s resignation, is a good example of how the government’s foul play has rebounded in its face.

The dean and several faculty members published a statement calling on Thaksin to step down. Almost immediately, there were attempts to discredit her, both secret and public. Those disgraceful efforts failed. They sparked widespread dissatisfaction against the government in academic circles. At Chulalongkorn University alone, about 400 lecturers publicly called for the prime minister to resign. The government’s failure in this instance also spawned additional student anti-Thaksin movements, which have spread to nearly all the universities across the country. These are some of the consequences of the abuse of power. Some people in the government also think that money can solve any problem and buy anybody. In reality, however, money is only the answer to some problems and it is successful in buying greedy and unscrupulous persons.

Through its allocations of funds to universities for research and studies into constitutional amendments, the government may receive some feedback from the smaller institutions of learning, but the rectors of the more prestigious universities have expressed the futility of the government’s ploy. They can see through Thaksin’s antics to buy time and divert attention away from more pressing issues.

Some academics even compare the money doled out to the universities to crumbs meant to buy support and time. Actually, it is not difficult for the government to solve its problems at their roots, and the roots are obvious to those who respect the truth. By being sincere and open, the government will win more allies. If it continues to indulge in intrigue and Machiavellian tactics, the government will gain only more enemies.

There is a saying that, to achieve success, a hundred friends is considered too few, while a single adversary is one too many. So, in its efforts to solve problems, the government needs friends, but all its actions are antagonizing the people.

The past four months show that the government has not learnt to deal with reality and with the basic virtues. Instead, it relied on tough-handed measures and money politics. In so doing, it brought more problems and political pressure on itself.

The government’s success or failure in solving national problems will determine whether there will be peace and stability or chaos and disaster. A dissolution of Parliament is increasingly likely. How will this eventuality benefit the people and resolve their grievances?

The only gain to the people is a general election to set a new mandate. A sideline is that, perhaps, poor people, especially those in the rural areas, will get spending money from dishonest candidates. Other than these two dubious comforts, it is obvious that a dissolution of Parliament will not end the problems facing the country. At best, it may end the prevailing political discord in the short term, but even that is doubtful.

The source of the social divisiveness and the political upheaval is undoubtedly the prime minister. The public outcry is not for the resignations of Members of Parliament (MPs) or the dissolution of the House of Representatives.

Although the general view is that most MPs have failed to protect and advance the interests of their constituents and the country as a whole, it must be admitted that their independence and freedom to act are limited by the Constitution and a tyrant. In the words of the leader of the Wong Nam Yen faction of the TRT, Sanoh Thienthong, the Constitution has imprisoned MPs.

Since the problem has nothing to do with the MPs, and the public is not agitating for their ouster, a dissolution of Parliament, which ends the MPs’ term of office, is clearly not the right solution.

There is a very real fear that a dissolution of Parliament may lead to people taking to the streets, before any general election, or soon after it, in uncontrollable anger to unseat the prime minister for what could be his last devious political ruse. Bear that in mind.

The above article is surely a damning indictment of this present government and it's "illustrious" leader Tax-SIN.........

Thaksin.....Awk bei

Thaksin.....Awk bei

Thaksin.....Awk bei

Edited February 22, 2006 by bulmercke

[sriracha john]

Thai people in Los Angeles send a letter of encouragement to PM Thaksin

Foreign Affairs Minister Kantathi Suphamongkhon (กันตธีร์ ศุภมงคล) said that overseas Thai residing in Los Angeles had sent a letter of encouragement to the Thai premier, disclosed that Thai people in Los Angeles has sent an encouraging letter to Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to continue his task.

He referred to the news claiming that the Thai people in Los Angeles in America are gathering 10,000 Thai people’s names to force the resignation of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

He said that he is confused with the matter because currently, more than 1,000 letters from Thai people in Los Angeles have sent letters to PM Thaksin and encourage him to continue with his good work.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 22 Febuary 2006

After trying to decipher this TNNBPRD gibberish, he's not the ONLY one confused....

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Some 10,000 southern people to join Sanam Luang rally

A southern branch of the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) is due to bring its members to this weekend’s rally in Sanam Luang to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

The catchword “Yik Thaksin”, meaning “Oust Thaksin”, has spread around the organisation.

Ekachai Insaratha, the leader of the southern PAD, said his group had been organising meetings in Phuket, Satun and Surat Thani to build alliances and explain to the public why Thaksin must go.

So far around 10,000 people have agreed to come to Bangkok on public transport to prevent the government from hindering their access to the capital, Ekachai said.

He said the group did not agree with the consumerist, populist policies of Thaksin’s administration.

Abdullohman Mukem, a student spokesman from the southern Prince Songkhla University, said he and his peers had researched the issues and concluded the government had lost legitimacy. Thaksin’s main failure has been his inability to tackle the violence in the south, he added.

University students in Nakhon Si Thammarat will join the sit-in rally on Sunday and have transported supplies to Bangkok, including a giant stove and pan to cook for demonstrators, said Yupawan Damrongpipat, vice president of Walailak University.

Tsunami victims at Ban Laem Pom in Phang-Nga will come to Bangkok with five vans to join the anti-government rally, said a spokeswoman.

Other tsunami victims said they would meet Thaksin to demand he fulfill his promises to them and if he failed to convince them, they would join the rally to oust him.

-------------------------------------------------

The tsunami victims joining in highlights the many groups of people throughout the nation that are disenfranchised with the PM for a plethora of reasons...

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Dharma Army links bomb attack to rally

Members of the Dhamma Army said they believed a bomb that exploded inside their Santi Asoke religious centre early yesterday morning was related to their decision to join the anti-Thaksin campaign.

They insisted, however, that the incident would not discourage them from showing up for the rally at Sanam Luang on Sunday.

The bomb was planted in a hole inside a cement base supporting a tree in the compound. The blast shattered windows of broke roof tiles at shelter buildings. Marble chairs were also broken, and an open space used for leisure activities was damaged. The blast was powerful enough to damage glass windows and the ceilings of eight townhouses nearby. Despite the extent of the damage, no one was injured.

Santi Asoke is the heart of “Dharma Army,” and includes supporters of former Palang Dharma Party leader Chamlong Srimuang, who last Sunday called on the prime minister to resign.

Chamlong, president of the Dharma Army Foundation and a former leader of the Palang Dharma political party, said he believed the bomb attack had been in retaliation for his decision to lead Dharma Army members to join the rally against Thaksin.

He said he expected no untoward incidents at Sanam Luang because security for Sunday’s event would be better than at Santi Asoke’s headquarters. However, he added that he feared other bomb blasts might take place at Santi Asoke monasteries around the country.

“I would like to tell people not to be frightened by these scare tactics. The more they intimidate us, the more people will join us at the rally,” Chamlong said.

Santi Asoke founder Samana Bodhirak said the bomb might have scared some Santi Asoke members off from joining the rally. He maintained, however, that most members would show a united front and refuse to back down.

He denied speculation that Santi Asoke had planted the bomb.

“Somebody has asked if we set up the bombing ourselves. Why? We have no reason to do that,” he said.

Thaksin declined to comment on the incident, but government spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee suggested it had been carried out by a third party. Security agencies will meet today to discuss the situation in preparation for the rally on Sunday, he said.

Deputy Agriculture Minister Adisorn Piengket advised people not to join the rally because it could turn violent.

Interior Minister ACM Kongsak Wantana said the bombing might have been carried out by a party trying to incite more members of the Dharma Army into joining the anti-Thaksin rally on Sunday.

Kongsak said he the bomb was low-powered and clearly not intended to kill.

“We worry and fear that it was caused by a third party. I hereby affirm that it was not done by the government and I don’t think it was done by the Dharma Army either. I think neither side wants the situation to be like this,” Kongsak said.

Col Phinit Maneerat, spokesman of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, said the bomb occurred at 2am inside the monastery on Soi Navamin 46 in Bangkok’s Bung Kum district. He said the bomb had been confined in a small area clearly with the aim of causing a loud noise.

Army Commander-in-Chief General Sonthi Boonyaratglin called on members of Santi Asoke to remain calm, pointing out that it was not yet known who was behind the attack.

“It could be [related to] internal conflicts. We don’t know the facts yet so I would not like anyone to cite this to incite people and worsen the situation,” the army chief said.

Phinit said initial investigation indicated the bomb had been the same type recently planted at the office of Manager Media Group Co, Ltd, organiser of the Thailand Weekly programme at Lumpini Park, and beside the wall of the Interior Ministry.

Edited February 22, 2006 by sriracha john

[sriracha john]

Teachers threaten to close schools after rally

Teachers' groups have joined the move to oust Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra by threatening to close schools nationwide by next Friday if he refuses to step down. Auaychai Watha, secretary-general of the Thai teachers network, said the group would start a five-day countdown after the mass rally on Feb 26.

The closure would begin in 1,000 schools before growing until the prime minister quits.

He said a House dissolution was not the way to solve the problems. Instead, the prime minister must resign to pave the way for political reform, seek royal appointment of a new prime minister, set up national reconciliation and political reform councils, and hold a general election in a year, or he would face mounting pressure from all sectors.

He said during an anti-Thaksin forum in Khon Kaen that about 30,000 northeastern teachers would join the rally at Sanam Luang while teachers in the South, the East, the North and Central Plains would gather in their provinces.

Also yesterday, women's networks comprising 54 organisations from the Network of Women and Constitution, and 39 more from the Alliance for Women's Progress announced their decision to participate in the Sanam Luang rally.

''Our reaction may be slower than other allies as we've been assessing the situation and our role in politics. The sale of Shin Corp shares to Singapore's Temasek Holdings is the latest evidence of the prime minister's corrupt practices that are unacceptable, no matter what explanation was given. So it's time to move,'' said Ticha Na Nakorn, of the Network of Women and Constitution.

She said the alliance had asked for approval for the move from member organisations.

''None showed disagreement. So we're going to gather at Sanam Luang on Sunday. I believe the prime minister will have no other choice but resign."

''The longer he refuses to leave, the more protesters will turn out,''said Ms Ticha.

The groups dismissed the prime minister's proposal for a joint parliamentary sitting next month, saying this was merely a game to buy time.

Rachadaporn Kaewsanit, president of the Rights and Equity Promotion Association, said the proposed joint sitting came too late.

''If he had been sincere, he should have done it at the start, not now when he is at a dead end.

''Besides, he's still the one who sets the rules. There'll be no voting after the debate finishes. We're to listen to what he says and then let him go. That's useless,'' she said.

Usa Lertsrisantad, of the Alliance for Women's Progress, said Mr Thaksin's policies on capitalism and free-trade agreements have left many rural women in a situation of insecurity.

''Yet he's never listened to the voices of those in hardship. We used to have hopes for Thai Rak Thai's policies, but when it came to implementation, we found those policies still missed those groups of marginalised women,'' said Ms Usa.

She also pointed to the failure of the education reform policy which had promised free education for all.

''Despite that, we found most parents still paying for their children's educational expenses, as well as learning materials and expensive tutoring courses,'' she said.

Meanwhile, 11th grader Prin Kriangburapa, head of Thavithapisek School's students, said his group would join the Sanam Luang rally to call for the prime minister's resignation as the government had lost legitimacy to rule, lacked ethics and promoted materialism instead of education among people so it could easily manipulate them.

In the meantime, Education Minister Chaturon Chaisaeng said the Education Ministry had no policy to strip students of freedom of expression, which is endorsed by the constitution.

However, some teachers are concerned about their students' safety.

Somkiat Pongpaiboon, chairman of the meetings of the councils of lecturers and officials of 40 Rajabhat universities, said representatives of 35 Rajabhat universities yesterday warned all to be mindful and avoid confrontations and the use of violence amid the crisis of confidence in the prime minister.

[chownah]

Posted by sriracha john....but I could not find a reference for his source:

Santi Asoke founder Samana Bodhirak said ,“Somebody has asked if we set up the bombing ourselves. Why? We have no reason to do that,”

“I would like to tell people not to be frightened by these scare tactics. The more they intimidate us, the more people will join us at the rally,” Chamlong said.

These two quotes were found in the same article. It seems like a pertinent question was asked and possibly the correct answer was given.

Edited February 23, 2006 by chownah

[sriracha john]

The Nation (with humble apologies).

Certainly, given the climate, those questions would/should be raised. They are indeed relevant as either side would have motivations to commit the act.

The founder Samana’s words were a denial of the obvious motivations that could lead them to do so. An indirect, but nevertheless another form of the exact same, denial is evidenced by the government spokesman Surapong suggestion of a third party. He failed to address the even the possibility of the government’s involvement. Why? Likely, people might be a bit more intimidated but not putting forth the same questioning to that side as opposed to asking a religious organization’s founder the question. It would be good to get on him record as to his response to the same question asked of Samana.

A similar situation is with the Deputy Agriculture Minister (not sure why/how he’s involved with this situation, but anyway) is using words to scare people away from attending and thus seeking lower numbers. Chamlong is using words that the more people are scared, the more that will attend. The spin doctors on both sides are working overtime.

Both sides are projecting their respective shadows on the issue.

I don’t discount Surapong’s possibility in the slightest. (I only pointed out earlier that by suggesting C, the possibility of B is not lowered). As the whole situation intensifies, there is absolutely the opportunity for third parties to get involved and muddle things even further.

If history is any guide, the more and more muddled things become in a situation, invariably someone gets hurt.

[Jai Dee]

Chulalongkorn students called for peaceful resolution to conflicts.

A group of Chulalongkorn students called all parties to resolve current political problems peacefully by following parliamentary system, while supporting university rectors to conduct studies on constitutional amendments.

Representative of the students submitted a letter to Chulalongkorn University’s rector, Khunying Suchada Keeranan (สุชาดา กีระนันทน์), demonstrating its stance to support constitutional amendments, which involved rectors as representatives of the academic sector to study the matter. The students also urged protestors to conduct their rally peacefully, to prevent differences of opinions to escalate into division in the country. The group also said it wants university students to jointly demonstrate their stance for peaceful resolution based on parliamentary system.

Khunying Suchada said that each dean will collect information on constitutional amendments within one week and will have another meeting on the issue again. Then, the proposals will be submitted to the Office of Higher Education to study details. She expressed belief that the work will be completed within the 2-month deadline set by the Prime Minister.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 23 Febuary 2006

[marshbags]

Kudo,s due to.......................................

Thanks to Jai Dee, sriracha and any others for keeping us regulary up to date on news items as they come in.

If members will allow this observation while not commenting on the topic, thanks.............

marshbags

Edited February 23, 2006 by marshbags

[Jai Dee]

Cheers marshbags.

Latest Update...

DPM Chitchai says Thai people is smart enough not to become political tool

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister CHITCHAI WANNASATHIT (ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์) said that Thai people is smart enough not to be the political tool of some groups who want to see chaotic situations on February 26th in the country.

He referred that even some people try to create chaos, people still believe in the government. He said that he has to evaluate the circumstances before dispatching authorities to maintain order on that day.

Speaking about the recent explosion at Santi Asoke (สันติอโศก), General Chitchai condemned the bomber, saying the latter wants to place turbulence in the country. He also believes that no explosion will take place on February 26th.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 23 Febuary 2006

[sriracha john]

thanks marshbags...

now then, where did I put those photos of Thaksin's sisters???

Cheers marshbags.

Latest Update...

DPM Chitchai says Thai people is smart enough

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister CHITCHAI WANNASATHIT said that Thai people is smart enough

He referred that even some people try to create chaos, people still believe in the government. He said that he has to evaluate the circumstances before dispatching authorities to maintain order on that day.

Speaking about the recent explosion at Santi Asoke (สันติอโศก), General Chitchai condemned the bomber, saying the latter wants to place turbulence in the country. He also believes that no explosion will take place on February 26th.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 23 Febuary 2006

sheesh... no need for photos when TNNBPRD is around....

their material is far superior to mine...

Edited February 23, 2006 by sriracha john

[Jai Dee]

ACM Kongsak expresses his confidence that the demonstration on Feb 26th will not escalate

Interior Minister Air Chief Marshal Kongsak Wanthana has expressed confidence that the demonstration on February 26th will not escalate.

The Minister made the comment after a meeting of commanders-in-chief of the armed forces and security-related officials called by the Defence Ministry to discuss their readiness for handling the gathering of people on this Sunday. He said that he has not called a meeting of Interior officials to set preventive measures because leaders of the rally such as Maj. Gen. Chamlong Srimuang (จำลอง ศรีเมือง) have affirmed the demonstration would be held within the framework of democracy.

However, he said, the military preparedness is normal as soldiers will have to support the police whenever the situation is out of their hands to control.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 23 Febuary 2006

[Jai Dee]

PM said the current political problems are results of political games

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra revealed that the current political turmoil is a result of political games set up by his opponents.

Prime Minister Thaksin presided over the opening of the Siam Premier International Law Center, which is a joint venture between Thailand and Australia. After attending that event, Prime Minister Thaksin admitted that he was sending an open letter to Thai Rak Thai party members to explain current issues. He said that the letter is just an ordinary letter. Asked whether he can reveal the content of the letter, Prime Minister Thaksin said that there is nothing, adding that the current political problems are due to political games.

The Prime Minister arrived at Government House at 9.50 a.m. and refused to give an interview to media.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 23 Febuary 2006

[sriracha john]

PM said the current political problems are results of political games

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra revealed that the current political turmoil is a result of political games set up by his opponents.

Prime Minister Thaksin presided over the opening of the Siam Premier International Law Center, which is a joint venture between Thailand and Australia. After attending that event, Prime Minister Thaksin admitted that he was sending an open letter to Thai Rak Thai party members to explain current issues. He said that the letter is just an ordinary letter. Asked whether he can reveal the content of the letter, Prime Minister Thaksin said that there is nothing, adding that the current political problems are due to political games.

The Prime Minister arrived at Government House at 9.50 a.m. and refused to give an interview to media.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 23 Febuary 2006

A secretly obtained copy of Thaksin's above-mentioned letter: