Anti-government Rally Thread 13-25 March

[bulmercke]

BREAKING NEWS

40-year-old woman stirs up the hornet of protesters - THE NATION -

A 40-year-old woman rode her motorcycle into the middle of protesters Monday morning and reprimanded them for creating public inconvenience.

The woman engaged in verbal attacks with protesters for about ten minutes before police quickly took her away.

She rushed her motorcycle through the police's barricade when police opened the barricade for a pick-up truck of contractor for setting up booths of the Thai Red Cross fair to enter.

Her motorcycle bore a campaign sign of Thai Rak Thai Party. She sped up her motorcycle to the back of the stage and started shouting in criticism of the protesters before two sides exchanged verbal attacks.

Edited March 20, 2006 by bulmercke

[Jai Dee]

where did this news come from Sandstone?

What does it mean as such?

It was in The Nation this morning (posted elsewhere by SJ, and re-posted here):

60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

Thaksin loses royal duty

Privy Council said to have replaced PM with Prem as organising committee head due to political concerns

Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is no longer tasked with the chairmanship of the organising committee to commemorate HM the King's 60th year on the throne, The Nation has learned.

A source said the unpublicised decision by the 19-member Privy Council on March 8 was reached after extensive debate on the political situation. The council voted 15-4 to make its president, General Prem Tinsulanonda, the new chairman. He will be responsible for welcoming kings and queens and their representatives for the celebration of the anniversary of the world's longest-serving monarch.

With Prem in charge it can be expected that whatever political circumstances prevail there will be a respectable leader to represent Thailand and His Majesty.

The source said that both Thaksin and Dr Surakiart Sathirathai knew of the council's decision but they continued their preparatory meetings. The latest round, chaired by Thaksin, was carried out on Thursday at the Foreign Ministry.

Thaksin, on his return from an election campaign swing upcountry, decided not to enter Government House, which was besieged by tens of thousands of protesters, and instead met top officials in charge of the royal event at the Foreign Ministry.

In fact, Thaksin has not entered Government House since the peaceful siege began last Tuesday morning. Official excuses have failed to prevent the building-up of a lame-duck image, which many analysts believe will linger beyond the planned snap election on April 2 if he remains head of the government.

The royal celebration is scheduled to begin in June. Observers don't expect political stability to have returned by then, especially if Thaksin uses the results of the April election, which is being boycotted by the entire opposition bloc, to justify his return to power.

In a recent interview on Channel 9, Thaksin defended the need for an early date for the election by saying the next government had to prepare for the royal celebration, one of the biggest the Kingdom has ever planned. But while the Thaksin camp may use the event to boost his chances of surviving the political crisis, some analysts see the upcoming royal schedule as a factor that adds to his troubles.

"Before Songran Day everything should return to normal so that the country can look forward to celebrating this world important event," a European ambassador said.

"You will have monarchs from all over the world coming to Thailand. The international media will also be here. So the crisis cannot be allowed to go on until then."

Government supporters yesterday used the royal programme to pressure the anti-Thaksin alliance, which is staging a sit-down protest outside Government House with tens of thousands of demonstrators.

"I beg for the public to put pressure on the mobs so they will accept the snap election and its outcome so our country can enter into the celebration of His Majesty's 60th year on the throne," said deputy Thai Rak Thai leader Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan.

Prem himself has been drawn into the political turmoil. A bomb exploded in front of his Si Sao residence on March 9, slightly injuring two foreigners but drastically heightening national tension. Then last Wednesday, he issued what looked like an impatient plea to those involved in the confrontation to put the country before themselves and quickly defuse the crisis.

According to Government Spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee, monarchs and their spouses from 14 countries will attend the commemoration of the world's longest reigning monarch.

He said the royal rulers of Brunei, Swaziland, Monaco, Lesotho, Nepal, Japan, Sweden, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Morocco, Luxembourg, Malaysia and Cambodia would attend the celebrations on June 9.

But what he did not say was that only the first six countries have confirmed in writing. The rest have yet to do so.

Oman, Samoa and Tonga have not yet responded.

[Sandstone Art]

seonai,

It is from the Nations' website

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2006/03/20...es_20003130.php

...................

Looks like things are moving to an end for dear Mr Sinawatra

[penzman]

What a great statesman and avowed Buddhist is Toxin..his comments in Bangkok Post telling Chamlong to go look after his stray dogs, and ...who in the hel_l asked them to rally...well that says it all about the nastiness of this individual...vitriolic spewings from the mouth of one who considers himself fit to govern the Kingdom..He is now ranting like an uncontrollable, uncouth, disrespectful, loutish, power drunk yobbo...who needs him?? dukkha

Here is the article

One more marble gone...

PM tells Chamlong to care for his dogs

Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra told Maj. Gen. Chamlong Srimuang to go back and take care of his adopted dogs rather than wasting time to "save the country".

Mr. Thaksin attacked Chamlong and other People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) leaders while he was campaigning for his Thai Rak Thai Party in front of Baiyoke Tower 2 Sunday afternoon.

Chamlong cannot take care of 2,000 dogs on his own and has to beg for dog foods from others so how could he save the country, he asked.

Suriyasai Katasila, one of the PAD leaders, responded later in the evening that Maj. Gen. Chamlong used to raise a politician before but failed to make him a good politician, so that's why he has to raise dogs instead.

"Thaksin has made the right advice.''

But Maj. Gen. Chamlong said as an elder brother, he never wanted to respond to what PM had said. "I actually can do both trying to save the country and raising 2,500 dogs.''

He added that he never begs for dog foods but people with good heart donate them.

Bangkok Post

[bulmercke]

where did this news come from Sandstone?

What does it mean as such?

It was in The Nation this morning (posted elsewhere by SJ, and re-posted here):

60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

Thaksin loses royal duty

Privy Council said to have replaced PM with Prem as organising committee head due to political concerns

Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is no longer tasked with the chairmanship of the organising committee to commemorate HM the King's 60th year on the throne, The Nation has learned.

A source said the unpublicised decision by the 19-member Privy Council on March 8 was reached after extensive debate on the political situation. The council voted 15-4 to make its president, General Prem Tinsulanonda, the new chairman. He will be responsible for welcoming kings and queens and their representatives for the celebration of the anniversary of the world's longest-serving monarch.

With Prem in charge it can be expected that whatever political circumstances prevail there will be a respectable leader to represent Thailand and His Majesty.

The source said that both Thaksin and Dr Surakiart Sathirathai knew of the council's decision but they continued their preparatory meetings. The latest round, chaired by Thaksin, was carried out on Thursday at the Foreign Ministry.

Thaksin, on his return from an election campaign swing upcountry, decided not to enter Government House, which was besieged by tens of thousands of protesters, and instead met top officials in charge of the royal event at the Foreign Ministry.

In fact, Thaksin has not entered Government House since the peaceful siege began last Tuesday morning. Official excuses have failed to prevent the building-up of a lame-duck image, which many analysts believe will linger beyond the planned snap election on April 2 if he remains head of the government.

The royal celebration is scheduled to begin in June. Observers don't expect political stability to have returned by then, especially if Thaksin uses the results of the April election, which is being boycotted by the entire opposition bloc, to justify his return to power.

In a recent interview on Channel 9, Thaksin defended the need for an early date for the election by saying the next government had to prepare for the royal celebration, one of the biggest the Kingdom has ever planned. But while the Thaksin camp may use the event to boost his chances of surviving the political crisis, some analysts see the upcoming royal schedule as a factor that adds to his troubles.

"Before Songran Day everything should return to normal so that the country can look forward to celebrating this world important event," a European ambassador said.

"You will have monarchs from all over the world coming to Thailand. The international media will also be here. So the crisis cannot be allowed to go on until then."

Government supporters yesterday used the royal programme to pressure the anti-Thaksin alliance, which is staging a sit-down protest outside Government House with tens of thousands of demonstrators.

"I beg for the public to put pressure on the mobs so they will accept the snap election and its outcome so our country can enter into the celebration of His Majesty's 60th year on the throne," said deputy Thai Rak Thai leader Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan.

Prem himself has been drawn into the political turmoil. A bomb exploded in front of his Si Sao residence on March 9, slightly injuring two foreigners but drastically heightening national tension. Then last Wednesday, he issued what looked like an impatient plea to those involved in the confrontation to put the country before themselves and quickly defuse the crisis.

According to Government Spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee, monarchs and their spouses from 14 countries will attend the commemoration of the world's longest reigning monarch.

He said the royal rulers of Brunei, Swaziland, Monaco, Lesotho, Nepal, Japan, Sweden, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Morocco, Luxembourg, Malaysia and Cambodia would attend the celebrations on June 9.

But what he did not say was that only the first six countries have confirmed in writing. The rest have yet to do so.

Oman, Samoa and Tonga have not yet responded.

What a snub!

And is, without doubt, the more painful for Thaksin to bear, as this celebration is going to be a very important and prestigious event, as can be witnessed by the extensive construction taking place in the Royal Plaza and surrounding roads.

Another painful 'stab in the back'........

[seonai]

Thanks Sandstone, Jai Dee etc etc - looks good. Maybe the beginning of the end??????

[Jai Dee]

BKK Governor has assigned BMA officers to provide more convenience for the demonstrators

Bangkok Governor Aphirak Kosayothin (อภิรักษ์ โกษะโยธิน) has assigned the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to fully provide convenience for both the pro-government and anti-government demonstrators. Meanwhile, the BKK governor has reiterated to security officers in each unit, to intensively inspect the areas.

Referring to a complaint about a female public toilet officer who dressed inappropriately, Mr. Aphirak said that the issue has never been reported to him. The governor will urge his officials to inspect the case. He, however, said that he has ordered his officials to provide more public toilets due to the increasing number of demonstrators.

Meanwhile, his visit to the areas where the protestors are demonstrating has caused people to criticize him for soliciting votes. The BKK Governor has denied the criticism, and said that he has just acted as the host of the capital city.

Source: Thai National News Bureau Public Relations Department - 20 March 2006

[britainmal]

You know if these power hungry rich protesters can come to their senses. I mean they should keep their protests about Thaksin's wrong doings only. They should not use this as a way to keep all the power amongs themselves and overrun the majority, which are the poor farmers. They were protesting outside the Singapore Embassy holding signs that they should cancel the deal with Tamask and The military deal with Singapore. Did these protesters realize that they are hurting the Thai Economy. What does this have to do with Thaksin? They want the country for themselves. This organization that is leading the protest is called Democratic something. They sure are not acting Democratic for the demands they want. They want the Singaporian people to support them after they burned pictures of the President of Singapore and want to Boycott it. I mean what if all the Singaporeans boycotted Thailand for being Xenophobic against them. What would they do those idiots. Do all those small amount of protesters want all the power to themselves? This is not Democratic, but they use the word to refer to themselves as. This is so foolish. They are hurting Thailand. They better wake up. Check this article out about Thailand:

RP is world’s friendliest country to migrants--survey

First posted 03:48pm (Mla time) Dec 22, 2005

By Dennis Maliwanag

INQ7.net

THE PHILIPPINES is globally the friendliest country to migrants, while Thailand has the biggest number of xenophobic citizens.

The latest Gallup International Voice of the People survey also found that more than half of Asians -- 56 percent -- consider immigration “a good thing for their own country,” even as negative sentiments prevail in the world against people moving from their native land to settle in another country.

The study found 87 percent of Filipinos believing that immigration is good for the country whose own citizens -- five million or so -- have left to work and live in foreign lands.

Malaysia is next to the Philippines in multiethnic Asia as most welcoming to migrants at 80 percent, followed by Vietnam at 68 percent.

Topping Asia and the world in animosity toward migrants at 82 percent is Thailand, whose robust economy attracts cross-border movements of people from neighboring Mekong countries fleeing poverty or countryside war.

Industrializing, Taiwan is second most xenophobic in the region at 55 percent, followed by Hong Kong at 47 percent, and Indonesia at 38 percent.

A similar polarity found in Asia can be seen in the Middle East.

Turkey, a country where immigration is “most negatively regarded” at 87 percent, is in sharp contrast with Israel, where 87 percent of people favor immigration.

On a regional basis, Africa is top in embracing migrants at 63 percent, Asia Pacific at 56 percent, and North America at 54 percent.

In North America, 74 percent of Canadians are pro-immigration. Opinions are more divided in the United States, where immigration rules have become stringent following the September 11 terror attacks in 2001. Forty-four percent of Americans do not support immigration.

The Middle East meanwhile has recorded the highest percentage of negative opinion toward immigrants at 67 percent, Eastern and Central Europe at 61 percent, and Latin America at 53 percent.

One long-held theory on people’s intolerance toward migration concerns fear immigrants will rob locals of domestic jobs, the study said.

“However, results from the Voice of the People survey do not back this view,” the study said.

“One of the main conclusions is that no difference can be found in the opinion of those working [44 percent believing immigration is good], those not working [45 percent] and the unemployed [45 percent],” it said.

Conducted by market information company TNS, the Gallup International study interviewed around 55,000 citizens in close to 70 countries around the world.

Copyright 2006 INQ7.net. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Read more stories on this topic as well as view related video clips and sites.

Edited March 20, 2006 by britainmal

[Plus]

Power hungry rich protesters? When this thing is over none of them will claim any power, and they don't look particualry rich to me.

I read a few days ago that Shin (or AIS) is going to pay 4 bil in dividends for the past year. Most of it to Singaporeans. How is it good for Thai economy? What did Thai people get from Shin sale? Nothing, most of the profits will go overseas now.

And why is that Thai people don't own any TV channels but Singaporeans got ITV. Why is truly public Thai TV channel born out of 1992 revolution got sold to foreigners? Why Singaporeans are allowed to buy an airline that PM helped to establish for himself, snubbing Thai national carrier?

There are a lot of questions for Singaporeans to ask. I don't believe they are plotting against Thailand, but this is the issue of national pride for Thais. Many other nations would feel the same.

I always brushed aside reservations about using AIS 'cos it props Taksin's empire, at least Taksin was a home grown boy and his company was a pride of the whole country. I don't feel the same way about Temasek, or even less so for that unknown Thai-Malaysian businessmen who stepped in a few days ago. I don't feel like paying to him at all.

People have a lot on their minds at the moment, the real backlash against AIS sale will be felt later.

[jdinasia]

Hate to say it Plus ... since I agree with you on most of your other stuff ... but in a free market economy ... people buy ... All kinds of people ...

The article above about Xenophobia is spot on (even if WAY off topic!) But again my home country has issues there as well. (We as Americans are very open ... until it comes to Mexicans etc.)

My home country was going through issues about sales of a company recently and was way in the wrong! (The ports deal to the UAE company).

People that invest should get the rewards .... face it you can own Coca-Cola if you want! Get the right group of people together and buy it! It's not wrong. It just is what it is.

As for TV stations ... the Thai people do own them ... through the Gov't.

Personally there's nothing in it really ... business wise... won't be until the Gov't allows a free press!

I still stick with AIS ... not because of any other reason than I like the service (primarily GPRS) throughout the entire country.

Strangely I don't really Dislike Thaksin ... I am ambivalent .... but I don't think his Gov't was good for Democracy ...

[penzman]

where did this news come from Sandstone?

What does it mean as such?

It was in The Nation this morning (posted elsewhere by SJ, and re-posted here):

60TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

Thaksin loses royal duty

Privy Council said to have replaced PM with Prem as organising committee head due to political concerns

Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is no longer tasked with the chairmanship of the organising committee to commemorate HM the King's 60th year on the throne, The Nation has learned.

A source said the unpublicised decision by the 19-member Privy Council on March 8 was reached after extensive debate on the political situation. The council voted 15-4 to make its president, General Prem Tinsulanonda, the new chairman. He will be responsible for welcoming kings and queens and their representatives for the celebration of the anniversary of the world's longest-serving monarch.

With Prem in charge it can be expected that whatever political circumstances prevail there will be a respectable leader to represent Thailand and His Majesty.

The source said that both Thaksin and Dr Surakiart Sathirathai knew of the council's decision but they continued their preparatory meetings. The latest round, chaired by Thaksin, was carried out on Thursday at the Foreign Ministry.

Thaksin, on his return from an election campaign swing upcountry, decided not to enter Government House, which was besieged by tens of thousands of protesters, and instead met top officials in charge of the royal event at the Foreign Ministry.

In fact, Thaksin has not entered Government House since the peaceful siege began last Tuesday morning. Official excuses have failed to prevent the building-up of a lame-duck image, which many analysts believe will linger beyond the planned snap election on April 2 if he remains head of the government.

The royal celebration is scheduled to begin in June. Observers don't expect political stability to have returned by then, especially if Thaksin uses the results of the April election, which is being boycotted by the entire opposition bloc, to justify his return to power.

In a recent interview on Channel 9, Thaksin defended the need for an early date for the election by saying the next government had to prepare for the royal celebration, one of the biggest the Kingdom has ever planned. But while the Thaksin camp may use the event to boost his chances of surviving the political crisis, some analysts see the upcoming royal schedule as a factor that adds to his troubles.

"Before Songran Day everything should return to normal so that the country can look forward to celebrating this world important event," a European ambassador said.

"You will have monarchs from all over the world coming to Thailand. The international media will also be here. So the crisis cannot be allowed to go on until then."

Government supporters yesterday used the royal programme to pressure the anti-Thaksin alliance, which is staging a sit-down protest outside Government House with tens of thousands of demonstrators.

"I beg for the public to put pressure on the mobs so they will accept the snap election and its outcome so our country can enter into the celebration of His Majesty's 60th year on the throne," said deputy Thai Rak Thai leader Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan.

Prem himself has been drawn into the political turmoil. A bomb exploded in front of his Si Sao residence on March 9, slightly injuring two foreigners but drastically heightening national tension. Then last Wednesday, he issued what looked like an impatient plea to those involved in the confrontation to put the country before themselves and quickly defuse the crisis.

According to Government Spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee, monarchs and their spouses from 14 countries will attend the commemoration of the world's longest reigning monarch.

He said the royal rulers of Brunei, Swaziland, Monaco, Lesotho, Nepal, Japan, Sweden, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Morocco, Luxembourg, Malaysia and Cambodia would attend the celebrations on June 9.

But what he did not say was that only the first six countries have confirmed in writing. The rest have yet to do so.

Oman, Samoa and Tonga have not yet responded.

What a snub!

And is, without doubt, the more painful for Thaksin to bear, as this celebration is going to be a very important and prestigious event, as can be witnessed by the extensive construction taking place in the Royal Plaza and surrounding roads.

Another painful 'stab in the back'........

What happened to your face Thak?

"Lost it..."

[Sandstone Art]

Is the news out too soon ??

Now , this is the latest......

Privy Council: PM still in charge

'Nation' report that Prem set to supervise grand commemoration 'absolutely not true'

The government and the Office of His Majesty's Privy Council yesterday strongly denied that Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra would no longer be in charge of organising the Kingdom's commemoration of the beloved monarch's 60th year on the throne.

The Nation yesterday reported that an unpublicised decision had been made on March 8 by the 19-member Privy Council that its president, General Prem Tinsulanonda, would replace Thaksin as the organising committee's chairman because of the current political uncertainties.

Inchan Buraphan, secretary-general of the Office of His Majesty's Privy Council, said

the report was "absolutely not true". He also expressed concern that such a report could be misinterpreted as evidence of a political conflict. "We all are working for His Majesty, and it has been clear from the beginning that, for this very important national event, that the government would act as host while General Prem would serve as top adviser," Inchan told The Nation.

Prime Minister Thaksin also insisted he remains in charge and lambasted the "fabricated" report as being damaging to the national image.

"I signed all the invitation letters to foreign monarchs and the replies have all been directed to me as host. This report is very damaging," he said.

Government Spokesman Surapong Suebwonglee vowed

to lodge a complaint with the

Press Council of Thailand against The Nation and demanded the paper issue a public apology.

"The government denies the report and is asking The Nation to show responsibility for publishing the false report that referred to an anonymous source without verification with the related agency," he said. "The Office of the Government Spokesman will send a letter to the editor to take responsibility.

And we will send a letter to

the Press Council of Thailand to examine the newspaper's ethical standard as the publicised information could have an impact on the event in June. It will also hurt the country as the news was published in one of only two English-language newspapers in Thailand with news that foreign media can redistribute."

Touching on the issue again later in the day, Surapong threatened to sue The Nation unless it revealed who the source for the story was.

Nation editor Tulsathit Taptim, reacting to the government's charges, said the editorial department cross-checked the information with several sources before publishing the report. He said the paper was ready to defend its decision to publish.

The Nation's sources said that with Prem in charge it could be expected that whatever political circumstances prevailed there would be a respectable leader to represent Thailand and His Majesty. The national celebration, to be joined by foreign monarchs, begins in June and will be in full swing by the end of that month.

Political uncertainties have raised questions about the national preparations for the event. But Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam last night insisted during an interview with the host of a news talk programme on Channel 11 that it was the "government's duty" to organise national celebrations for His Majesty. And as head of the government, Thaksin remains fully in charge of the all-important event, he said.

"The line is clear as to who is responsible for what regarding the grand commemoration," said Wissanu.

[britmaveric]

Interesting - looks as if the Nation stuck themselves in it.

[lukamar]

The Nation is not one of my favorite news sources but this latest news blunder will put a cloud over all their reporting and anonymous sources for awhile.

[sriracha john]

What a great statesman and avowed Buddhist is Toxin..his comments in Bangkok Post telling Chamlong to go look after his stray dogs, and ...who in the hel_l asked them to rally...well

Here is the article

One more marble gone...

PM tells Chamlong to care for his dogs

Thaaaaaaaksin spilled his bag a while ago...

[sriracha john]

a female public toilet officer

A what?????????????????????

who dressed inappropriately

Who was what??????????????

Edited March 20, 2006 by sriracha john

[penzman]

Are these news articles written in an opium den?

[lukamar]

a female public toilet officer

A what?????????????????????

There are 2 per toilet bus. A male attendant and a female attendant. The busses are supplied to rallies and events by the city at no cost.

who dressed inappropriately

Who was what??????????????

Like everyone in Thailand, I'm sure they have a specific uniform, changes to that uniform would be considered inappropriate, like wearing a TRT hat or a yellow bandanna.

[sriracha john]

a female public toilet officer

A what?????????????????????

There are 2 per toilet bus. A male attendant and a female attendant. The busses are supplied to rallies and events by the city at no cost.

who dressed inappropriately

Who was what??????????????

Like everyone in Thailand, I'm sure they have a specific uniform, changes to that uniform would be considered inappropriate, like wearing a TRT hat or a yellow bandanna.

oh ok... thanks for clarifying...guess TNNBPRD messed up their translation a bit.

I was somehow picturing something completely different. Something akin to:

[sriracha john]

Turning back to the serious side of things once again... nothing like some cheap scare tactics, by dangling a return to the "evil" IMF over everyone's head, to drum up support:

Thailand’s Thaksin warns of return to IMF aid

By Amy Kazmin in Bangkok

Financial Times

Published: March 20 2006 11:03

Thaksin Shinawatra, the Thai prime minister, has stepped up his battle for political survival, warning that Thailand could once again be forced into an International Monetary Fund-directed structural adjustment programme if he is ousted from power.

In a televised election announcement on Monday, Mr Thaksin defended his record in government, and expressed concern that his defeat in controversial April 2 elections – which opposition parties are boycotting – could undermine foreign investor confidence and Thailand’s macro-economic stability.

“What I am very concerned about is going back to the past,” the sober-looking premier said. “If investors lose their confidence in the country because they find that Thailand has turned its back on globalisation, capital will flow out. This might mean we have to enter an IMF programme again.”

Mr Thaksin has long touted his early repayment in 2003 of Thailand’s outstanding debts from a $17.2bn IMF bailout – extended at the start of the 1997 financial crisis – as one of his proudest achievements in office.

However, opposition politicians dismissed the idea that Thai macro-economic stability depends on Mr Thaksin’s leadership. Independent analysts said while Thailand’s external position remains strong, the political crisis, if prolonged, would undermine growth prospects.

“We do not believe that the country is in any way at risk of going back to the IMF in the near future,” said Kiat Sittheeamorn, an economic policy advisor for the opposition Democrat party. “That kind of statement not only distorts the facts about our involvement with the IMF, but it is also taking the Thai people hostage.”

Thailand, which was forced to turn to the IMF after exhausting its foreign reserves in a futile defense of its fixed exchange rate, now has around $54bn in foreign exchange reserves, and the baht has recently been appreciating. The external debt-to-GDP ratio is around 30 per cent, down from around 72 per cent before the 1997 Asian financial crisis. Growth this year is projected to be around 5 per cent.

Ailing Ngiam, a sovereign analyst with Fitch Ratings, said the Thai “economy will slow, but we are not going to see an IMF scenario,” even with the current political stand-off. However she added the country would benefit from “a clear solution” to the present turmoil.

Mr Thaksin’s warning of potential economic instability came as the Democrat party accused his Thai Rak Thai (Thais love Thais) party of allegedly hiring people to contest the election as phony opposition candidates – in an apparent bid to circumvent voter turnout rules that threaten to scuttle the election.

Thailand’s three main opposition parties are boycotting the election, leaving the ruling party unchallenged in the polls. But Thailand requires parliamentary candidates running uncontested to receive the support of 20 per cent of eligible voters in their constituency – a threshold that will be tough for some Thai Rak Thai candidates to reach, particularly in opposition strongholds.

Until all 500 seats are filled, parliament cannot convene to elect a new premier.

Democrats on Monday said they have evidence that senior figures in Thai Rak Thai, including two government ministers, sought to skirt the turnout problem by paying people between Bt100,000 and Bt3m each to run against the Thai Rak Thai candidates in various constituencies. Mr Thaksin has denied wrongdoing by his party.

[lukamar]

oh ok... thanks for clarifying...guess TNNBPRD messed up their translation a bit.

I was somehow picturing something completely different. Something akin to:

You sometimes have to read the News bureau reports 3 times to figure out what they are actually saying and use a thesaurus to fill in some words that don't seem to fit. On the whole they translate from the Thai version quite well. A lot better than I could even with my wife's help.

Is that a pic of Mia Noi ?

[sriracha john]

oh ok... thanks for clarifying...guess TNNBPRD messed up their translation a bit.

I was somehow picturing something completely different. Something akin to:

Is that a pic of Mia Noi ?

Not exactly.... here's what she looks like sans her "inappropriate", "public toilet officer" outfit:

[lukamar]

Not exactly.... here's what she looks like sans her "inappropriate", "public toilet officer" outfit:

I would not recognize her at all when she's not at work

[sriracha john]

*hint*

She doesn't have to work, she's the richest woman in Thailand

[Plus]

Jdinasia, I totally agree that Thais are one of the most xenophobic nations in Asia, so I try to see the situation from their point of view.

You'd have similar demonstrations in any country, in Korea they would have slaughtered a buddhist monk already. Here, however, I don't think anyone takes these particular protesters seriously - they haven't got any heavyweights on their side. And like I said there's no public backlash against AIS yet.

Public acceptance is important for any business.

[Jai Dee]

DPM Chidchai told police to remain calm despite provocations by protestors at Govt House.

Deputy Prime Minister overseeing security has visited police officials keeping order at Government House, while reiterating that they should be patient when performing their duties.

Deputy Prime Minister General Chidchai Wannasatit (ชิดชัย วรรณสถิตย์) visited officials overseeing security during the demonstrations by the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) at Government House. He thanked officials while asking that everybody understand the current situation and remain calm despite provocations by the protestors. He also said that the premier is also concerned about the officials and has told him to take care of the officials’ food and rotating shifts, so that they will not be too weary.

As for the prolonged protests of the PAD, General Chidchai said that the security officials are not concerned about that, expressing belief that all sides realize the negative impacts the demonstrations can cause on the country. However, he also expressed disappointment with the failure of the tripartite debate organized by P-Net, as he believes that negotiations are the best way out of the current political crisis. He asked all related parties to support moves pushing for joint discussions.

In addition, General Chidchai commented on the security operations during the Thai Red Cross Fair that there should not be any problems. As for the possible intervention by the third party that can cause confusion, he said that he has to wait for reports from officials on the matter. He also said that officials are discussing ways to relieve traffic congestion on the event days to provide convenience for the people.

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

[Jai Dee]

Anti-Thaksin protesters are marching to Singapore Embassy

Anti-Thaksin protesters reached Silom Road in their attempt to gather participation from people working at Silom and is heading to Singapore Embassy.

The protest was led by Manager Group founder, Sondhi Limthongkul and Chamlong Srimuang, chief of Dharma Army. The protesters started marching from Lumpini Park at about 9.20am.

The protesters shouted, "Thaksin, Get Out," and waved national flags. They showed placards depicting pictures of Thaksin and statements demanding for Thaksin to step down.

Several traffic police facilitated the peaceful march. It is reported that the protest now turned left at Narathiwat Rachanakarin and is heading to Singapore Embassy. Initial plan was that the protesters will march through Silom Road.

Source: The Nation - Breaking News - Tue, March 21, 2006

[Jai Dee]

PM Thaksin reiterates the movement of PAD to Silom can be carried out without causing any troubles

Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra said that the movement of the People’s Alliance of Democracy's (PAD) rally to Silom (สีลม) Road can be carried out if such act does not cause any trouble.

The PAD core leaders have decided to march the demonstrators to Silom Road, in an attempt to pressure the Prime Minister to step down from his post.

Prime Minister Thaksin said it is the responsibility of related agency to overlook the situation. He said the rally can take place under the democratic regime, and the protestors should not cause troubles to the general public.

As for the upcoming general election on the 2nd of April, the premier said that people are encouraged to exercise their voting rights.

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

[Jai Dee]

Maj.-Gen. Chamlong has requested people to join the demonstration on the 25th of March

One of the core leaders of the People’s Alliance of Democracy (PAD), Major-General Chamlong Srimuang (จำลอง ศรีเมือง) has urged the general public to join the rally on the 25th of March at Makkawaan Rangsan (มัฆวานรังสรรค์) Bridge.

Maj.-Gen. Chamlong said during the movement of PAD’s rally to Silom Road that people are encouraged to join the demonstration on March 25th at 14:00 hours.

He said it will be a grand demonstration again and it is possible that the rally will be marched to Ban Chan Song Lah (บ้านจันทร์ส่องหล้า), the residence of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

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

[bulmercke]

Police clear contents of anti-Thaksin regime book

By Jutarat Tongpiam 20 March 2006 21:59 - ThaiDay -

Police last night determined that the contents of the Stop the Thaksin Regime book authored by Bangkok Senator and anti-Thaksin critic Kaewsan Atipo are not disruptive to public order and morality, and the 20,000 copies that were seized over the weekend will be returned to the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), the copyright owners.

However, police said that the publication cannot be distributed or sold as it does not contain the names of the printer and the publisher.

Police had earlier confiscated 20,000 copies of the 31-page book before they were distributed to protesters at the anti-Thaksin rally on Pitsanulok Road. The white-cover 15cm x 21cm book is co-authored by Kaewsan’s academic brother Kwansuang Atipo.

According to Kaewsan, the book has been freely distributed to the public at anti-Thaksin gatherings several times since March 13, but police never interfered in its distribution until Sunday.

Pol Lt-Gen Thavorn Chanyim, Commissioner of the National Police Bureau’s Special Branch yesterday said that the police Publications Investigation Committee was examining the confiscated copies to determine whether they were illegal or not and that the decision was expected to be known in seven days.

Before the police retreat last night, Kaewsan had said that the seven-day period cited by the police was too long, and that PAD planned to file a complaint with the Administrative Court against the police for abuse of authority.

Democrat Spokesperson Ongart Klampaiboon yesterday hit out at the caretaker government and the authorities involved for infringement of public rights by confiscating the book written by Kaewsan. They should also not try to discredit others who are opposing them, he added. He said that his party’s leaders had read the book thoroughly and found nothing in its contents that can cause social disruption. “The book simply helps to educate the general public. Nothing in the book can disrupt society or cause immorality. Actually, all it disrupts is the security of the caretaker prime minister, the creator of the Thaksin regime,” he said.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

The seizure of these 20,000 anti-Thaksin books by the police was nothing but a provocative exercise aimed at intimidating and hindering the anti-Thaksin's movement. An old political tactic.

And to cap it all: (from above) "However, police said that the publication cannot be distributed or sold as it does not contain the names of the printer and the publisher."

Again this is nothing but uneccessary 'nitpicking' by the authorities to prevent distribution of the books and dissemination of the truth about Thaksin and his rotten and totally corrupt regime.

Wonder if any pro-Thaksin literature has been confiscated to date. Doubt it!

And what about those half a million Thai Lak Thai VCDs now being distributed with Thaksin's 'street-boy' and delinquent comments.

Hypocrisy.

Edited March 21, 2006 by bulmercke