Latest Developments on the Election Front

[Jai Dee]

PM Thaksin returns to work at the Government House for the 2nd day

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has returned to work at the Government house for the second day today.

At 9.00 hours today, the premier left his residence, Ban Chan Song Lah (บ้านจันทร์ส่องหล้า), and went to work at the Government House. The Government House was blocked by the People’s Alliance for Democracy's (PAD) demonstrators since March 13th.

The premier will travel to Udon Thani Province at 12.55 hours, to deliver his grand speech at the provincial city hall. He will then return to Bangkok at 20.40 hours.

In the meantime, the PAD's demonstrators are residing at Phitsanulok (พิษณุโลก) Road, in front of the Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC) and the Government House. However, they are carrying out the protest in a peaceful manner.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 24 March 2006

[Jai Dee]

DPM Chidchai confident that the election will take place on April 2nd.

Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister General Chidchai Vanasatidya (ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์) expressed confidence that there will be an election on April 2nd, adding that the election will resolve all the current problems.

General Chidchai said that the government intends to uphold the rule of laws according to the democratic system. He added that if the election is disrupted, there will be chaos in the country, adding that it will set a bad precedent. He said that the people should, therefore, cast their ballots on the election date.

General Chidchai added that security officials have not adjusted security plans for the major rally by the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) on March 25. He said that small backup forces will be prepared to station at Government House in case of emergencies.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 24 March 2006

[Jai Dee]

Many popular figures turned up on the first day of application for Senate race

Former president of the Parliament Uthai Phimjaichon (อุทัย พิมพ์ใจชน), former Bangkok governors Phijitr Rattanakul (พิจิตร รัตนกุล) and Samak Sunthorawet (สมัคร สุนทรเวช), and a number of popular figures from many fields yesterday registered for candidacy for the senatorial election. Meanwhile, the general atmosphere in other provinces was equally vibrant.

As many as 200 people applied to run for the senate in the first day of registration at Lumphini (ลุมพินี) Park yesterday, despite the fact that only 18 senators may come from Bangkok. Among the applicants include former Bangkok Governors Phijitr and Samak, former parliament president Uthai, and musician Wisa Khanthap (วิสา คัญทัพ).

In Songkhla Province, as many as 42 candidates applied, while 50 people came to register in Ubon Ratchathani and 36 filed application in Chiang Mai. 22 people registered in Phayao Province on the first day, where a candidate was reported to have used coins ranging from 50 satang to 10 baht to pay for the application fee and delaying the process slightly as officials had to count the money.

Candidates running for the Senate are not allowed to rally for votes, and may only introduce themselves via leaflets.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 25 March 2006

[Jai Dee]

Election process cannot be undone now: Thaksin

Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra said Saturday that the election had already begun and could not be undone.

Thaksin was speaking reporters while his son, Panthongtae Shinawtra, Industry Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, and other ministers, to visit the Bangkok Motorshow.

He said since the election had taken place through the advance voting, it could not be undone.

"The election has already taken place so it has to go on," Thaksin said.

When asked whether it would led to a dead end since it was impossible now to have 500 MPs elected in the first round of election, Thaksin said the problem could be solved through legal means.

"We have laws for solving problems, not for creating problems. We have laws so we will always have solution," Thaksin said.

Source: The Nation - Breaking News

[Jai Dee]

EC to hold meeting Monday to discuss call for delaying election

Deputy Senate Speaker Nipon Wisityutthasart on Saturday led a group of senators to submit a letter to the Election Commission, calling it to indefinitely delay the election from April 2.

Nipon and the senators said in their letter that the election could lead to severe political repercussion and political dead end as the House would never have 500 MPs from the election.

They also voiced concern that the election could lead to protests, which could escalate into violence.

They called on the EC to work out with the government to issue a new decree to undo the on-going election process.

EC Chairman said after meeting Nipon that the EC would meet on Monday to discuss the call.

Source: The Nation - Breaking News

[Jai Dee]

1,303 people nationwide have so far applied to run in the senatorial election

The Election Commission has concluded the tally of applicants to the senatorial election, over the first 2 days of the application period, at 1,303 individuals.

The EC reported that people from many fields applied over the first 2 days. 401 applicants were from the northeastern region, 343 were from the central region and Bangkok, 120 applied in the eastern region, 220 filed for candidacy in the south, and 219 people applied in the north.

The application period will continue until March 28th. The EC has stated that in Bangkok, it would still use the senior citizens' club at Lumphini (ลุมพินี) Park as the venue for filing application tomorrow.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 25 March 2006

[Jai Dee]

Prime minister says he is not worried about an issue where he gets elected from the election but did not have a full House of Representatives

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has affirmed he was not worried about an issue where he gets elected in the election but might not have a full number of members of the House of Representatives. Policemen and soldiers were reported to have increased in number at the premier's residence upon his return, after rumors the anti-Thaksin mob could move their demonstration site to the Chansongla (จันทร์ส่องหล้า) residence.

Mr. Thaksin said he would not feel heavy-hearted should less than 500 House members be yielded from the April 2nd election, as he believed the law of the country would provide an exit for the situation. In response to suggestions by academics proposing that the premier take a break from politics, Mr. Thaksin said such announcement would also mean an announcement to take a break in democracy.

Reporters say the number of security officials at the prime minister's Chansongla home on Charansanitwong (จรัญสนิทวงศ์) Road has doubled from normal.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 25 March 2006

[sriracha john]

1,303 people nationwide have so far applied to run in the senatorial election

The Election Commission has concluded the tally of applicants to the senatorial election, over the first 2 days of the application period, at 1,303 individuals.

The EC reported that people from many fields applied over the first 2 days. 401 applicants were from the northeastern region, 343 were from the central region and Bangkok, 120 applied in the eastern region, 220 filed for candidacy in the south, and 219 people applied in the north.

The application period will continue until March 28th. The EC has stated that in Bangkok, it would still use the senior citizens' club at Lumphini (ลุมพินี) Park as the venue for filing application tomorrow.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 25 March 2006

Is it possible to start a new, separate thread for the Senate elections in the news section, Jai Dee? It will be conducted on a later date and has separate issues and points of discussion from the election of MP's and it might be a bit more coherent to separate the two. Thank you.

The above and below posts might be a good beginning for it.

Grab-bag of talent registers for April 19 Senate poll

Judging from candidates who registered yesterday, the new Senate after the April 19 election is likely to be filled with proxies of political parties, retired government officials with political backing, political and social activists, academics and members of non-governmental organisations.

The Senate candidacy registration began yesterday and continues until Tuesday.

Since candidates running for the Senate are limited by the election law to only distributing documents to introduce themselves, and are not allowed to campaign for votes like candidates running for the Lower House, those who enjoy the same support base as major political parties stand a higher chance of getting elected.

Moreover, some had canvassed for votes long before the candidacy registration.

Clear examples of nominees of political parties can be found in Nakhon Ratchasima province.

They include Lt-Gen Poonpirom, wife of Thai Rak Thai deputy leader Suwat Liptapanlop; Mrs Ranongrak, wife of Thai Rak Thai executive Pairote Suwanchawee; Mr Boonlert, younger brother of former Thai Rak Thai MP Chamlong Krutkhunthod; Mrs Napaporn, wife of former senator Pichet Pattanachote; and Ms Linda, daughter-in-law of Suchinda Cherdchai or Jeh Kiew, owner of the country's largest bus building firm.

Running in nearby Buri Ram province are Mr Chai, veteran politician and father of caretaker Prime Minister's Office Minister Newin Chidchob; Mrs Patcharee, wife of former Thai Rak Thai MP Sophon Phetsawang; Mr Rungroj, younger brother of former Thai Rak Thai MP Songsak Thongsri; Mr Wanrop, younger brother of caretaker Defence Minister Thammarak Isarangkura na Ayudhaya; and Mr Kamol, younger brother of former senator Karun Sai-ngarm.

In Chiang Rai, Mrs Salakjit, wife of caretaker Natural Resources and Environment Minister Yongyuth Tiyapairat, is contesting the election despite the fact that she was recently sentenced by the provincial court to four years' imprisonment.

In the South, leading candidates also have strong ties with the Democrat party, including Mrs Huwaidiya, younger sister of former Democrat MP Surin Pitsuwan, and Treepol Johjit, a former Democrat MP for Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Retired government officials running in the polls include former Lampang governors Peera Manathat and Chalermpol Pateepvanich; former Chiang Rai governors Samroeng Boonyopakorn and Worakiat Somsoi; Pol Lt-Gen Laemthong Yan-ubol, former Region 3 Police chief; Pol Lt-Gen Pichit Khuantechakupt, former Region 7 Police chief; and Pol Gen Sunthorn Saikhwan, former deputy national police chief.

''Most of these retired officials canvassed for votes while still in government service. Some governors had even used the so-call CEO budget for winning a support base in advance,'' a source said.

Some candidates are political heavyweights like Samak Sundaravej, a former Bangkok governor , and Uthai Pimchaichon, former parliament president, both running in Bangkok.

Also standing are social activists and academics like Klanarong Chanthik, former secretary-general of the National Counter Corruption Commission; and Dej-udom Krairit, secretary-general of the Lawyers Council of Thailand.

- BP

Edited March 25, 2006 by sriracha john

[Bryan in Isaan]

Witnesses: TRT paid us to stand

PM's party implicated in electoral fraud case

Four witnesses in a case of alleged electoral fraud yesterday confirmed to the Election Commission (EC) that Thai Rak Thai party executives had paid them to contest the April 2 general election. Democrat secretary-general Suthep Thaugsuban accompanied the four witnesses to the Region 8 Police Bureau in Surat Thani, where they were questioned by the EC's investigation team headed by Pol Lt-Col Suvicha Bunmee. ...

(see post #329)

...and here is more on the story from BP Sunday, March 26:

Witness in about-turn on poll fraud

Files police complaint against Suthep

By Wassayos Ngamkham

A key witness has reversed earlier testimony against Thai Rak Thai candidates over alleged electoral fraud and accused Democrat secretary-general Suthep Thaugsuban of hiring her to point the finger at TRT and detaining her against her will. Thattima Pavalee, a Phaendin Thai party list candidate, yesterday filed a police complaint against Mr Suthep at the Crime Suppression Division after a team of crime suppression police went to Surat Thani on Friday to take her from Mr Suthep's house in Phunphin district, where she was allegedly detained.

Mrs Thattima said the other three witnesses were also being held against their will in different houses in the same compound.

Mrs Thattima said the Democrat party sent a man to invite her on Monday to meet Itthipol Chinnaraj, the Phaendin Thai party leader who was said to be at the Democrats' head office.

Only when Mrs Thattima arrived there did she discover she had been duped as Mr Itthipol was nowhere to be seen.

She claimed Mr Suthep had offered her a million baht and a position in the party in exchange for implicating Thai Rak Thai heavyweights in the election fraud, in which the ruling party was accused of hiring small parties to contest the April 2 poll.

She said Mr Suthep had already wired 300,000 baht to her bank account with a transfer slip being kept as evidence. She said Mr Suthep told her she would get the rest of the money after she had finished testifying to the court.

She said she agreed to accept the money partly because she wanted to pay off debts.

Then, she said, Mr Suthep had her read a script and recorded her reading it. He presented the video recording to the Election Commission as evidence.

Mrs Thattima insisted that the content of the video footage was invented and asked for police protection and called on the police to rescue the other three witnesses.

It was reported that Mrs Thattima was seen trying to phone Mr Suthep in an attempt to talk about returning the 300,000 baht.

On Thursday, Mr Suthep accompanied four witnesses, including Mrs Thattima, to the Region 8 Police Bureau in Surat Thani, where they were questioned by the EC's investigation squad headed by Pol Lt-Col Suvicha Bunmee.

The other three are Chavakarn Tosawat, a Pattana Chart Thai candidate in Bangkok's constituency 29 (Bangkok Noi); Suksant Chaithes, Pattana Chart Thai's campaign director; and Monthiraporn Pimchan, Mr Suksant's assistant.

Mr Suthep said last week that three TRT executives _ deputy leader Gen Thammarak Isarangkura na Ayudhaya and deputy secretaries-general Pongsak Raktapongpaisal and Prommin Lertsuridej _ were behind the ruling party's tampering of the EC database to allow unqualified candidates from smaller parties to run in the election.

Mr Suthep asked EC investigators to question witnesses in Surat Thani instead of Bangkok for safety reasons.

http://bangkokpost.com/News/26Mar2006_news10.php

Edited March 26, 2006 by Bryan in Isaan

[thedude]

And in other news....General Prem, Chairman of the Privy Council, turns up early to cast his vote in the elections. Did anyone else get the hint?

How will the PAD supporters and opposition spin this to their advantage now? SJ? A penny for your thoughts?

[jdinasia]

Spin it? Voting is mandatory in Thailand (not to vote makes one ineligible for various rights)

So Prem did his duty to the ingdom of Thailand and voted .... (probably NOT for TRT ... but he'd have to say that himself ... as my guess is idle speculation)

Did you not notice that the opposition is running a vote for the no candidate program? To encourage people not to vote would be against the law

Edited March 26, 2006 by jdinasia

[sriracha john]

And in other news....General Prem, Chairman of the Privy Council, turns up early to cast his vote in the elections. Did anyone else get the hint?

How will the PAD supporters and opposition spin this to their advantage now? SJ? A penny for your thoughts?

I certainly wouldn't expect the Chairman of the Privy Council to do anything else but follow the law and the Constitutional obligation to vote. I wouldn't necessarily read anything else into his voting early... over 400,000 Thais have done so already.

What are you wishing to insinuate that it has to do with PAD?

Piphop Thongchai, a leader of the People's Alliance for Democracy, "Even I have to cast a ballot."

btw, do you happen to know if General Prem ticked the box, "no vote"?

*edit*.... I forgot to mention that none of the 400,000 were from the constituency in Samut Sakhon with no candidates due to the lone candidate, from TRT, being disqualified..... comedically enough.... for NOT voting in the previous election...

Edited March 26, 2006 by sriracha john

[sriracha john]

Medical doctors urge a 'no vote'

The Doctors for Peace group yesterday urged eligible voters to participate in the election but to tick the "no-vote" box on their ballot cards as a solution to the political turmoil.

"People should choose 'no-vote' so that the Thai Rak Thai Party will receive votes from less than half of the total eligible voters, forcing caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to decline the premiership as he has pledged," the group's leader, Dr Sant Hattirat, told a press conference yesterday.

Sant said he did not believe that all 500 seats in the House of Representatives would be filled as required by the Constitution, and that the protests against the prime minister might continue indefinitely.

If voters went to the polls and ticked the "no-vote" box, the divisions in society would be healed and the political deadlock resolved peacefully, without the need for His Majesty the King to appoint a new prime minister, which would not be good for the royal institution, which is worshipped by the people and above politics, he said.

Another speaker, Dr Makarathep Thepkanchana, said his group believed Thaksin would not step down before election day, so the best way to end the political crisis was for eligible voters to tick "no-vote" on their ballot cards.

- TN

[Jai Dee]

Is it possible to start a new, separate thread for the Senate elections in the news section, Jai Dee? It will be conducted on a later date and has separate issues and points of discussion from the election of MP's and it might be a bit more coherent to separate the two. Thank you.

Good idea SJ... for senatorial election developments, please see this thread.

[Jai Dee]

The Democrats insist Article 7 is not in violation of the Constitution.

Democrat party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva (อภิสิทธิ์ เวชชาชีวะ) insisted that the proposal asking for the royally-installed government according to Article 7 of the Constitution is the Democrat party’s own idea, adding that the party did not adopt the idea from the People’s Alliance for Democracy.

Mr. Abhisit reiterated that the proposal is considered based on the situation and the Constitution, adding that it is not in violation of the charter or harm democracy, as charged by the premier. He said that the Democrat party’s offer is different from the PAD’s as the party wants the Prime Minister to jointly solve the problems. He said that the party does not want to see exchanges of hostile comments. He added that if the Prime Minister carefully considers the proposal, he will see that the Democrat party is making an offer for the people and the nation.

The Democrat party leader added that the proposal to seek a royally-installed government will allow the premier to prove himself, adding that he may come back gracefully after an election.

Meanwhile, Democrat party spokesperson Ong-art Klampaiboon (องอาจ คล้ามไพบูลย์) expressed belief that the Thai Rak Thai party will win almost all seats in parliament in April 2nd election, allowing Prime Minister Thaksin Shinnawat another term in office. He insisted that the Democrat party does not intend to bring down the democratic system, as alleged by the Thai Rak Thai party.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006

[Jai Dee]

PM proposes establishing a national government if he wins the election.

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra insisted that April 2nd election will proceed, adding that he will propose establishing a national government if he wins the election.

Many people attended the major speech at Wong Wien Yai roundabout last night. Prime Minister Thaksin, as well as many leading members of the Thai Rak Thai Party, encouraged the people to vote in the April 2nd election, while attacking the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) and the Democrat Party on many issues. Prime Minister Thaksin said that he will not allow a step back in democratic system and a violation of the rule of law. He indicated that those calling for his resignation are losing interests.

He also said that Major-general Chamlong Srimuang (จำลอง ศรีเมือง) did not bring him into politics, adding that he came into politics because he wanted to and he was ready. As for the post-election solution, Prime Minister Thaksin said that he is willing to set up a national government to let small parties and the opposition parties to join the Cabinet.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006

_______________________________________________________________________

Thaksin proposes 'national govt'

Caretaker premier offers opposition posts in next administration; Suryisai slams attempt to 'earn legitimacy'

Embattled Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra yesterday proposed the establishment of a "national government" after next Sunday's election and offered to reserve some Cabinet seats for the opposition, which is boycotting the poll.

The surprise offer came in the middle of a belligerent election rally speech at Wongwian Yai, where he vowed to fight to the death for democracy.

"Thai Rak Thai (TRT) is ready to form a national government to solve the current problems and end all the trouble and conflicts," he told a cheering crowd.

"Quotas will be given to the opposition parties, regardless of whether they contest the election."

Thaksin said he would be ready to welcome the Democrat Party and other smaller parties to join the national government to carry out political reforms and solve urgent problems facing the country.

Suriyasai Katasila, a spokesman for the anti-Thaksin People's Alliance for Democracy, said Thaksin's resignation would be preferable to a national government.

"It is unacceptable to either the opposition or the PAD for Thaksin to promise a national government after the April 2 election. This is an attempt to earn himself legitimacy," he said.

While the election looks set to take place despite the opposition's boycott and the anti-Thaksin alliance's call for a royally-appointed prime minister to break the present deadlock, the poll faces a serious legitimacy problem.

TRT is unlikely to win 20 per cent of the vote in certain uncontested constituencies, and this means there may not be the 500 MPs required by the Constitution, raising the question of whether an incomplete House can convene to name a new prime minister.

In an interview, deputy TRT secretary-general Phumtham Vejjayachai clarified Thaksin's offer, saying "all interested parties", not only the opposition bloc, would be invited to join the national government.

"Everyone interested in helping us solve the crisis will be invited," he said.

Asked if Thaksin would be prime minister of a national government, he said: "That's a different issue. The prime minister has said he would return to office only when Thai Rak Thai wins a certain number of votes."

Thaksin said he would not accept the premiership if TRT won fewer votes than the combined number given to smaller parties and abstentions.

But Phumtham said that even if TRT failed to win enough votes for Thaksin to return the party would still make up the core of the next government.

"If we do not win more than half the votes, we are ready to form a national government. Anyone interested can come and talk to us," he said.

Meanwhile, Democrat Party spokesman Ong-art Klampaiboon said he could not comment on Thaksin's recent proposal, as it must be submitted to the party first.

Deputy Democrat leader Alongkorn Polabutr yesterday said the party would hold a meeting today to discuss the matter and adopt its stand.

"This could be Thaksin's attempt to ease the mounting political pressure and to buy time to stay in power past election day," he said.

Thaksin's election campaign at Wongwian Yai yesterday was his second major address in the capital, following the large rally by his supporters on March 3 at Sanam Luang. Thaksin arrived in Wongwian Yai at 5.45pm, where he was greeted by a large number of motorcycle taxi drivers.

Some of Thaksin's supporters distributed handbills with a picture of His Majesty the King advising then prime minister Suchinda Kraprayoon and anti-Suchinda protest leader Chamlong Srimuang during the bloody political turbulence in May 1992.

Others sold "Thaksin fight on!" T-shirts for Bt20. Another group of more than 100 taxi drivers and motorcycle taxi drivers waved flags and banners, and drove their vehicles around Wongwian Yai's large roundabout.

Chants of "Thaksin fight on! Thaksin fight on!" could be heard.

Thaksin said he was confident that the voter turnout for the election on Sunday would exceed 20 per cent.

He has scheduled another campaign rally on Friday at Lumpini Park.

Key members of Thai Rak Thai gave speeches attacking the opposition over the election boycott, saying it was undemocratic, and urged the supporters at Wongwian Yai to vote to preserve the democratic system.

They also slammed Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva over his suggestion last Friday that Thaksin resign and His Majesty the King appoint a new government.

"Abhisit is the underling of Sondhi [Limthongkul, a leader of the anti-Thaksin movement]. Sondhi told him to tear up the Constitution, and Abhisit obeyed," Sudarat Keyuraphan said from the stage.

Shortly after 6pm, Thaksin took the stage and said Thai Rak Thai is ready to form a national government to solve the political crisis. Moreover, he said, he would offer other political parties a chance to submit the names of candidate cabinet ministers.

As Thaksin spoke, supporters from Thonburi started up another "Thaksin fight on!" chant, giving the premier a chance to take a break from speaking.

Earlier, while visiting a health club in the morning, Thaksin told reporters he would respect the people's voice as it was expressed through the election on April 2.

Asked whether he was worried about a confrontation between his supporters and protesters, Thaksin replied: "I hope all sides will respect the voice of the people after the April 2 election."

Thaksin said a lot of people came out to cast advance votes on the weekend, showing that they cherished democracy.

He said he did not mind if he did not become prime minister for another term, but simply wanted to protect democracy by having the election go on.

Source: The Nation - Mon, March 27, 2006

[Jai Dee]

Mr. Suthep insisted that his party did not hire anyone to block the April 2nd election.

Secretary-General of the Democrat Party Suthep Thuagsuban (สุเทพ เทือกสุบรรณ) expressed belief that his witness Tatima Pawalee (ฐัติมา ภาวะลี) changed her testimonies that the Democrat Party hired her to defame the Thai Rak Thai Party due to pressure, adding that he still has good feelings toward her.

Mr. Suthep said that his party did not hire anyone to block the April 2nd election, while revealing Mrs. Titima’s testimonies to the investigators. He expressed confidence that the evidence will have enough weight. Mr. Suthep will today submit a letter to the Election Commission asking for progress of the investigation on the case. He said that if the case has not proceeded, a lawsuit may be filed against the Election Commission for negligence of duties.

Deputy Prime Minister Chitchai Wannasathit (ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์) said that he has refused the claim by the Democrat Party as groundless. However, he said he does not want to comment on whether the Democrat Party fabricated evidence, as he wants to wait for the investigations.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006

[Jai Dee]

PM not worried about the April 2nd election not yielding 500 MPs.

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra insists that he is not worried even though the April 2nd election may not yield 500 MPs, as there are laws that will provide a way out of problems for the country.

Prime Minister Thaksin said that he is not concerned if the election will not yield all 500 MPs as he believes that the law will provide solutions to the country’s problems. As for suggestions by academics that he should step back from politics, he said that the suggestion can be considered a step back from democratic system, adding that everyone should follow the democratic process.

After that, Prime Minister Thaksin returned to his residence. Military and police officials provided tight security following reports that the protestors may gather at his residence.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006

[Jai Dee]

The independent commission for national reconciliation called on all sides to observe the Constitution

The independent commission for national reconciliation called on all sides to observe the Constitution, while urging the parties to negotiate to find a common ground on political reforms.

President of an independent commission for national reconciliation Kothom Areeya (โคทม อารียา) commented on the current political conflicts that it is normal that people living in democratic system can have different opinions. However, he said that he wants the two sides to observe peaceful approach and not resort to violence, adding that they should hold on to the Constitution. He added that he does not want to see this conflict develop into personal conflict. He said that the two sides should bear in mind that the conflict is for national interests, adding that attempts to avoid violence can be seen as another development in Thai society.

Mr. Kothom said that the best way out of the current conflict is negotiation, as the two sides still share a common stance on political reforms. However, he said that the commission will not act as a mediator as it is set up to tackle the southern problems.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006

[thedude]

And in other news....General Prem, Chairman of the Privy Council, turns up early to cast his vote in the elections. Did anyone else get the hint?

How will the PAD supporters and opposition spin this to their advantage now? SJ? A penny for your thoughts?

I certainly wouldn't expect the Chairman of the Privy Council to do anything else but follow the law and the Constitutional obligation to vote. I wouldn't necessarily read anything else into his voting early... over 400,000 Thais have done so already.

What are you wishing to insinuate that it has to do with PAD?

Piphop Thongchai, a leader of the People's Alliance for Democracy, "Even I have to cast a ballot."

btw, do you happen to know if General Prem ticked the box, "no vote"?

*edit*.... I forgot to mention that none of the 400,000 were from the constituency in Samut Sakhon with no candidates due to the lone candidate, from TRT, being disqualified..... comedically enough.... for NOT voting in the previous election...

haha, good one SJ.

General Prem reiterated that he supports a constitutional way forward. remember that only last week, the Privy Council gathered before HM. if Gen Prem was expecting royal intervention, do you think he would have turned up to cast an EARLY vote? that is a really big hint for the PAD if you think about it.

The PAD is looking for royal intervention. obviously they want this to happen before 2nd April, that is why they keep stepping up the demonstrations. they know that a once a democratic vote is cast on 2nd April, their legitimacy will be greatly diminished.

the opposition is not even a part of the elections, and they continue to argue for Article 7 to be invoked. if article 7 is not invoked before 2nd April, again, it will seriously undermine their position.

i have said this from the beginning, the existing constitution was commissioned by HM, and drafted by Khun Anand's team of academics and law makers barely 10 years ago. people shouldn't forget what a serious undertaking it was. asking HM to invervene on this constitution when democratic means continue to exist is to be truly ignorant of the underlying motivations of the constitution.

those opposed to Thaksin on this forum should be fighting for a "no-vote", instead of supporting the PAD mob and parroting The Nation's ill-founded and highly emotive hyperbole.

[Jai Dee]

Leaders of Opposition parties hold a discussion to evaluate political situation

Three leaders of the former Opposition parties, including Democrat Party Leader Abhisit Vejjajiva (อภิสิทธิ์ เวชชาชีวะ), Chart Thai Party Leader Banharn Silpa-archa (บรรหาร ศิลปอาชา), and Mahachon Party Leader Sana Khajornprasart (สนั่น ขจรประศาสน์), have met to discuss and evaluate the current political turmoil. The meeting also included other core figures from these three parties.

At around 10 A.M., they also discussed the proposal of the Democrat Party for Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to resign from his post and the proposal of royally-installed government by using Article 7 of the Constitution.

They also raised the topic of the participation of the Opposition parties in the National Government, as claimed earlier by the premier.

The media and the press have gathered at the meeting venue, where Deputy Chart Thai Party Leader Nikorn Chamnong (นิกร จำนง) has later joined the meeting.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006

[sriracha john]

haha, good one SJ.

General Prem reiterated that he supports a constitutional way forward. remember that only last week, the Privy Council gathered before HM. if Gen Prem was expecting royal intervention, do you think he would have turned up to cast an EARLY vote? that is a really big hint for the PAD if you think about it.

The PAD is looking for royal intervention. obviously they want this to happen before 2nd April, that is why they keep stepping up the demonstrations. they know that a once a democratic vote is cast on 2nd April, their legitimacy will be greatly diminished.

the opposition is not even a part of the elections, and they continue to argue for Article 7 to be invoked. if article 7 is not invoked before 2nd April, again, it will seriously undermine their position.

i have said this from the beginning, the existing constitution was commissioned by HM, and drafted by Khun Anand's team of academics and law makers barely 10 years ago. people shouldn't forget what a serious undertaking it was. asking HM to invervene on this constitution when democratic means continue to exist is to be truly ignorant of the underlying motivations of the constitution.

those opposed to Thaksin on this forum should be fighting for a "no-vote", instead of supporting the PAD mob and parroting The Nation's ill-founded and highly emotive hyperbole.

Far be it for any of us to speculate just when, if any, intervention by His Majesty King Bhumiphol Adulyadej may or may not occur.

As previously stated, I see no hidden message in General Prem decision to vote early. Thousands of busy people chose to do so.

I view the PAD leader's remarks to reflect both a desire to follow the rule of law and indicative of a pragmatic alternative, if an election does occur, to vote no. As with most well-planned causes, goals are achieved through an assortment of avenues. They are not solely relying on Article 7.

They ARE encouraging those that do chose to vote early, to vote no.

I do wonder about Thaksin's legitimacy following the election, if it does occur. Most of the rest of the world usually considers one-party election victories as something less than representative of democracy.

Coupled with the muddled and as-yet-unsorted-out mess of Parliament being unable to sit due to inadequate representation does not paint a rosy picture for Thaksin post-election, (if it occurs).

[Jai Dee]

Dr. Prommin insisted PM Thaksin has a true intention to establish a national government

The Secretary to Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej (พรหมินทร์ เลิศสุริย์เดช), affirmed that the premier has a true intention to establish a national government as to ease the current political turmoil.

Dr. Prommin referred to the decision of Prime Minister Thaksin to set up a national government where all parties will be invited to join the new administration. He added that the Thai Rak Thai Party or the premier will act as a coordinator for every party to halt the ongoing tension.

He referred to the announcement of the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) and the Opposition who claimed that they will not join the national government. He said the general public will be the one to make such decision.

Dr. Prommin however did not give a clear statement whether the premier would preside over the Cabinet meeting tomorrow at the Government House. He added that Prime Minister Thaksin will avoid the conditions which could lead to chaos.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006

[Jai Dee]

Dr. Prommin said that all facts will be released after the general election has passed

The Secretary to Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej (พรหมินทร์ เลิศสุริย์เดช), said that the entire facts of every allegation made by the Democrat Party over the Thai Rak Thai Party on hiring small parties to field their members to run in the general election, will be revealed, after the election on April 2nd has passed.

As for the Democrat Party’s accusation against the Thai Rak Thai Party for hiring some of its members to run in the general election, Dr. Prommin said that his ruling party has rejected the allegation. He informed that his party has also prosecuted Secretary-General of the Democrat Party Suthep Thuagsuban (สุเทพ เทือกสุบรรณ) as he has damaged the the party's reputation. The first interrogation will be held on May 12th.

However, representatives of the general public have handed a flower banquet to Dr. Prommin as he is one of those who has been allegedly involved in the hiring small parties.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006

[lukamar]

I do wonder about Thaksin's legitimacy following the election, if it does occur. Most of the rest of the world usually considers one-party election victories as something less than representative of democracy.

Have you wondered what will happen if Thaksin gains another a huge majority of the votes cast nationwide?

I get news from 5 different countries and none of them have ever had anything about the Thai election, They don't think it's newsworthy, I guess.

There is basically one party running but it's not the only party that is allowed to run, that's the big difference between one-party systems and Thailand. The major opposition parties have failed to register candidates, they have not been prevented from doing so as in a one-party system. In a democracy parties and candidates campaign for seats to form the government and the opposition. You keep saying it's the TRT's or Thaksin's fault that the opposition is not running, it is not, it is the opposition parties fault that have failed to run any kind of opposition and field candidates and offer any choice to the Thai people.

You can use the guise of the snap election, the it won't be fair, the TRT will buy votes and on and on but they are all excuses. The opposition that cries Democracy and has it in it's name has managed to miss the whole point of Democracy. That is to try and win the election. Maybe in 4 years they will understand that and maybe they can purge the current inept leadership, restructure and come up with with a decent charismatic leader who can offer a choice.

[sriracha john]

I do wonder about Thaksin's legitimacy following the election, if it does occur. Most of the rest of the world usually considers one-party election victories as something less than representative of democracy.

Have you wondered what will happen if Thaksin gains another a huge majority of the votes cast nationwide?

I get news from 5 different countries and none of them have ever had anything about the Thai election, They don't think it's newsworthy, I guess.

There is basically one party running but it's not the only party that is allowed to run, that's the big difference between one-party systems and Thailand. The major opposition parties have failed to register candidates, they have not been prevented from doing so as in a one-party system. In a democracy parties and candidates campaign for seats to form the government and the opposition. You keep saying it's the TRT's or Thaksin's fault that the opposition is not running, it is not, it is the opposition parties fault that have failed to run any kind of opposition and field candidates and offer any choice to the Thai people.

You can use the guise of the snap election, the it won't be fair, the TRT will buy votes and on and on but they are all excuses. The opposition that cries Democracy and has it in it's name has managed to miss the whole point of Democracy. That is to try and win the election. Maybe in 4 years they will understand that and maybe they can purge the current inept leadership, restructure and come up with with a decent charismatic leader who can offer a choice.

Hmm.. can't find news about Thai elections? I would suggest finding some alternative news sources to the ones you are currently utilizing then... it's quite easy to access dozens of reports from all over the world on a constantly updated basis.

The evaluation by world opinion of the legitimacy of "one-party elections" isn't restricted to only situations where other parties are specifically prohibited from participating.

I don't ever recall, let alone "keep, saying" it was TRT nor Thaksin's "fault" that the opposition chose not to run. is my recollection faulty?

I think it was quite a strategic maneuver on the part of the opposition parties to decline to participate, thus providing a challenge to the legitimacy of the election... and calling into question the motivation for it being called. Additionally, by doing so... it DOES provide the population with a choice. If significant numbers of votes are "no vote", it sends out a beacon to the world that this election and it's resulting government are anything but credible.

Far from being "excuses", the opposition parties contentions raised are necessary for an election to be considered free and honest. Other people, such as the TRT Party MP candidate who stepped down throwing off the whole TRT party-list, would agree. Perhaps their ideals of the whole point of democracy being to form a representative government of the people are a bit too lofty when put against your "winning" at all costs.

Why is Thailand having snap elections?

And how long will the resulting muddled affair of a non-sitting Parliament last?

Edited March 27, 2006 by sriracha john

[Plus]

Lets not forget that Thaksin was trying to survive serious corruption charges levelled against him and calling snap elections was only a diversionary tactic to shift public's attention away from his misdeeds. And he succeded, to a degree.

Prem casting an early ballot caught me by surprise, but then I rememebred that Thaksin called elections a day after consulting with Prem, and most certainly with Prem's blessing. From that perspective Prem's vote is understandable.

I agree that PAD and Democrats should be campaigning for "no vote", and I believe they are doing that. I don't think their supporters will abstain from voting altogether.

It was reported that the number of early votes is about half of what if was last year, hopefully the overall turnout is not much less.

[Siripon]

Maybe they won't have 4 years to understand that, maybe there will be another snap election in 1 year when Thaksin again doesn't want to answer awkward questions.

He controls all the pay TV channels, just last week sacking 2 TV presenters for broadcasting clips from the PAD rallies.

He controls all the state mechanisms except for the Supreme Administrative Court.

He posseses a vast war chest.

The snap election is an abuse of democracy in an attempt to stifle criticism-' you can't criticise me because the majority voted for me'- Parliamentary dictatorship.

Just answer the questions Mr Thaksin, as Aphisit said if you've got nothing to hide what's he afraid of?

It's also untrue to say the PAD haven't discussed rural poverty, several speakers have talked about the issue, as have the Democrats. Anyone with a remote knowledge of the subject knows it's a topic requiring long term solutions, not gimmicks such as issuing land title deeds that the poor will quickly sell, thereby losing their land. The nor sor sam documents have a reason.

I remember Dr Chermsak's TV programmes in the past,(before Thaksin banned him),where villagers would discuss their problems and Jermsak would act as a moderator.

Compare that to Thaksin's one man show at At Samart, handing out money on a case by case basis like some feudal lord. All top down, not bottom up.

[Jai Dee]

Pol. Gen. Chitchai and EC has discussed together to seek security measures for the upcoming general election

The Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister, Pol. Gen. Chitchai Wannasathit (ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์), and the Election Comission (EC) have discussed to seek security measures for the general election on April 2nd. They have given a special concern over the security for the election in the Deep South.

After chairing a meeting with the EC President, General Wassana Permlab (วาสนา เพิ่มลาภ), and Election Commissioner Jaruphat Ruangsuwan (จารุภัทร เรืองสุวรรณ), Pol. Gen. Chitchai has disclosed that the meeting today aims to set measures to handle with possible chaos during the general election. He said that he wants to ensure security for voters who come to exercise their rights, especially the ones in the Deep South. He said that authorities will provide security all day long. He initially discussed with the Southern Border Provinces Peace-Building Command (SBPPC) to deploy its officials to the risky areas in the Deep South.

Pol. Gen. Chitchai views over a recent report saying that an anonymous person has placed a bomb at the headquarters of the Democrat Party. He said that he cannot conclude that who is behind the action at this moment, but he said that the person may only want to instill disorder in Thailand.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006

[Jai Dee]

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra still performs his political role.

According to the news report, Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra left Ban Chansongla (จันทร์ส่องหล้า) at 9:00 hours, and went to work at the Government House.

Following his three-hour work, the premier later left the Government House at 11:45 hours to have lunch with his son, Mr. Phanthongthae Shinawatra (พานทองแท้ ชินวัตร), and other Thai Rak Thai Party members, including Mr. Jakrapob Penkair (จักรภพ เพ็ญแข) and Mrs. Orathai Thanajaro (อรทัย ฐานะจาโร), at the food center of Lalaisub (ละลายทรัพย์) Alley at Silom Road.

People around Silom Road gave a warmly welcome to the premier and his party members. They also encouraged the premier to fight against his opponents.

During the Prime Minister’s visit to the area, a confrontation between the premier’s supporters and his opponents took place, causing the premier to immediately leave the site and return to work at Ban Phitsanulok (พิษณุโลก) at 12.40 hours.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 27 March 2006