Thaksin Given Ultimatum To Resign Within 48 Hours

[britmaveric]

And if Pm Thaksin doesnt go, and is supported by the vast majority of the people who elected then what? Few just as corrupt people are gunning for him, plain/simple - can't prove their allegations, so this is the sad result of their efforts.

And if anyone thinks the HRM will get involved they are mental. This is a political matter and the great King is above all this and should be.

The vast majority of people voted for Thai Rak Thai, not Thai Rak Thaksin. The vast majority may even have only voted for TRT because they paid more money for their votes.

Let's remember that Thailand doesn't have a President, therefore the election in theory is based on party politics, not a popularity poll. If Thaksin is ousted as Prime Minister, then Thai Rak Thai should remain in control until the Democrats force their way back to the top.

Only one problem TRT=Thaksin!

[hammered]

BANGKOK: -- Anti-Thaksin demonstrators led by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) gave an ultimatum Tuesday evening that caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra resigns within 48

Or what ?

Hold up traffic yet again,

What a bunch of frustrated goofs...Whatever Thaksin did wrong, they're doing even worst for the country at this point...

Pathetic...

Afraid I cannot agree. These people could not in a million years do worse than Thaksin. As for being a goof (s) Thaksin is one of the biggest jokes to ever be visited on a country.

If you think these people are doing wrong please think back to the people in 1973, 1976 and 1992 who were influential in ridding the country of the monkeys then in power, the people now are doing their best to see that the wrongs of the past are not repeated adinfinitum.

To the people who are now pushing for Thaksins ouster we should all take our collective hats off to you.

Not true, these are the very same people, Banharn, Sanan, Sanoh, who bankrupted the Country in 1997 causing the collapse of the Baht. Billions of Baht were squandered by these MPs and the Country had to be rescued by the IMF. Thanksin took over and soon paid off the IMF loan and put Thailand back on it's feet. Now the Economy is doing very well, and Thanksin was voted back in with an overwhelming DEMOCRATIC VOTE.

Now Corrupt Politicians in their parties are desperate to get hold of the undertable money from the many Mega-Projects that TRT have soon to award. How can a minority MOB paid for by the smaller oppostion parties be allowed to unseat a properly elected Prime Minister. If a Minority Mob who takes to the street is allowed to remove a Prime Minster elected by the Majority, then Democracy will be dead in Thailand. Thaksin is doing the right thing in putting it to the vote on April 2nd, Let all the People Decide, Thailand should not be ruled by the mob.

If you were actually here in 1997 you would realise that Chavalit was the primeminister who bankrupted the country and that Thaksin was in the government - Deputy PM i think. Sanan was in the opposition. Get your facts right.

[p_brownstone]

Corruption, Cronyism and Self-interest are staples of the political system in Thailand, and have been – probably will continue to be – for years.

The lasting damage that Thaksin has introduced to the equation however is that he has destroyed the decades old self-reliance and independence of the backbone of Thai society, the farming families and villages.

Previously politicians in Thailand simply bought votes using their own money, an “investment” they would recoup once they were elected. Thaksin however has perfected a system of using Government money to buy votes; initiating obviously wasteful programs or using handouts on his visits to villages - as in the well publicised “reality” show at At Samart. These are usually un-budgeted and given on the spur of the moment simply to increase his personal popularity.

On a National level however the results are much worse. Debt “moratoriums”, Village funds, SML Loans - even the 30 Baht Medical scheme - have now inculcated the formerly self-sufficient to expect a Government hand-out to solve all their problems. In the not too distant past farm income at harvest time would be used first of all to pay off debt to the local Tow Kae for last seasons’ seed grain, fertiliser etc. etc. but the remainder would be carefully budgeted to purchase essentials, always bearing in mind that going deep into debt would result in the loss of the family fields etc..

Now this formerly frugal, sensible lifestyle has been destroyed by “Thaksinomics” and the implicit encouragement to spend tomorrows income today on un-necessary Mobile ‘phones, TV’s, whatever.

Average household debt has risen significantly under Thaksin and it must be obvious to anyone that the crunch must come – sooner, rather than later, and this time the bankruptcies will not be restricted to the relatively well off as happened in 1997.

As for the next few days or so, I think the die has already been cast.

I believe that the Military already has plans in place and they are simply waiting for a significant civil disturbance to occur – a clash between factions in Bangkok or perhaps an attack on a public office.

All Military Officers take an Oath of Allegiance to the Monarch and they take this very seriously – they will simply not allow political infighting to mar the 60th Anniversary Celebrations of His Majesty’s’ Coronation.

Patrick

Edited March 22, 2006 by p_brownstone

[jdinasia]

Any speculation on how they plan to escalate this when Thaksin does NOT resign in about 24 more hours?

[britmaveric]

Any speculation on how they plan to escalate this when Thaksin does NOT resign in about 24 more hours?

Another ultimatum per usual for the millionth time. (broken record comes to mind)

[boppia]

Off hand, know of at least ten former TRT voters who have turned against Thaksin. Why did they turn? They changed after getting information that isn't available through traditional channels. They wouldn't have turned on Thaksin if they didn't hear for themselves what the protesters were saying. Most Thais still haven't heard what the protesters are saying. Give the masses the truth and they will want change.

[bulmercke]

However, I must state that I strongly oppose to the one farang that I saw present (on television) at the political demonstration and feel that he is out of line for even being there.

Imagine if on the news in the UK you made a comment like that because you saw a black person present at a political demonstration.

Firstly you wouldn't make a statement like that as it would be..."Politically incorrect" and you have every nationality at demonstrations/rallies in the UK anyway. They could be nationals or they could be tourists, nobody seems to mind.

However, many of the foriegners here, have just as much right to attend a rally if they so desire, as Thai nationals do. They live here, work. invest capital, employ Thai staff AND pay taxes, and in my opinion have every right to be interested in the politics of the day, as it directly affects their way of life.

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

Spot-on.

Couldn't agree with you more.

Foreigners have every right to engage and participate in political activities in this country - so long as it's within the confines of Thai law - and Thai law, incidentally, doesn't bar foreigners from public participation - whether it's joining a public assembly, marching or chanting - although in the past there have been exceptions to this rule - particularly regarding Burmese nationals and other South East Asians.

Many foreigners living here are married to Thai nationals, and their spouses and children are dependent on them for financial support. They contribute much to Thailand.

Many others have financial investments in this country, which ultimately contribute to the economy and the wealth of the nation.

Many pay taxes - many contribute in other ways - teaching - specialist advisers - management etc.

In short, foreigners are very much a part of this country.

And, in fact, foreigners participating 'actively' at the ant-Thaksin protests are most welcome by all Thais attending. It shows that there is shared sentiment in their commitment to depose Thaksin and improve society. And that foreigners know of the current political crisis and are prepared to assist change things.

If you're against Thaksin - then the attitude of the protesters is that you're with them, in the same boat, and you are made most welcome.

Thais welcome the presence, interest and involvement of foreigners - so long as they act in a decent, responsible and civil way.

Apologies if this post sounds as if I'm evangelizing - it's just the way it came out.

Edited March 22, 2006 by bulmercke

[PeaceBlondie]

i can't say i ever heard of non-nationals getting deported and banned from other countries for joining political demonstrations. although he might violation your rules of conduct in a foreign country, i am not aware any westerner who might join a political protest is doing anything illegal (maybe stupid as he might make himself more likely to be singled out and attacked).....

I know of at least one foreign country that deports aliens for intefering with national politics: Mexico. I think it's Article 32 or 33 of their constitution. We violated it, and were nearly deported. Without proper regard for their own law, the Mexican officials deported various Italians the year before. Also, the Belgian priest who was the parish priest for the victims of the Acteal massacre was basically deported, as I recall. I'm sure there are similarities in other countries.

[britmaveric]

Peru - you get tossed into jail, and charged w/plotting against govt.

Bad idea to get involved one way or another. Best to stay neutral. What happens if crackdowns occur and you've been identified as a subversive supporting the losing side?

Edited March 22, 2006 by britmaveric

[johnwills]

Ok the PM goes, what next? Anyone any thoughts on how a party change may affect us ex pats, if at all?

[boppia]

There are farangs who have citizenship. The owner of the minor group is an example and there are plenty of non-white foreigners who visit the demonstrations. In addition I have heard the TRT stagemasters spouting off garbage about how farangs think this and that in support of their side. It's better to have a farang saying what he feels rather than some Thai person speaking for them.

But as Brit says there are risks. The strangest thing is I haven't recieved any warnign emails from my embassy saying not to go near the protests. They sent one a month or so ago.

[Johpa]

. There is a very good chance of violence anywhere there is a crowd. Be careful my thaivisa.com friends.

Alas, there are far too many newby ex-pats in Thailand these days, who, after being here for maybe a decade or so during the lull in the ever present Thai political storm, are clueless about such real and present dangers. I do pray there is a non-violent outcome to this current round of political discontent and this new generation of ex-pats not suffer a belated rude awakening to Thai reality. But yes, only a fool of an ex-pat would get involved in these public demonstrations.

[george]

Update:

No reaction from PM over demonstrators' ultimatum

BANGKOK: -- Caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has shown no reaction over his opponents' ultimatum that he resigns within 48 hours.

The caretaker premier refused to give any comment on Wednesday when asked by journalists over the deadline.

The anti-Thaksin demonstrators led by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) gave an ultimatum Tuesday evening that Mr.Thaksin Shinawatra resigns within 48 hours, or faces a decisive action to be ousted of office.

Mr. Thaksin, however, called an urgent meeting with Thai Army Chief Gen. Sonthi Boonyaratkalin at his official residence, Ban Pitsanulok, here Wednesday afternoon.

Gen. Sonthi told TNA after the 20-minute meeting that the caretaker prime minister asked about the development of the situation in Bangkok.

"I reported to the caretaker prime minister that there is nothing serious at the moment as the PAD-led campaigners have rallied peacefully so far. This's admirable and should be recorded in the Guinnes Book as the world's most peaceful demonstrations", he said in a special interview with TNA.

"Intelligence reports have shown nothing serious, either, but indicated that a large number more people are expected to join the opponents' new mass rally planned at the Makhawan Bridge on March 25," he noted.

The PAD has invited members of the public to take part in its mass rally on March 25, from 02:00 p.m. onward, to show a strong people's power to force embattled Mr. Thaksin to resign.

Gen. Sonthi said, nonetheless, that Mr. Thaksin did not raise the PAD's planned mass rally for discussions, but talked about many rumours which could damage and cause further rifts in the society.

"The prime minister did not ask the military to intervene in the rallies, either," he added.

Gen. Sonthi said as the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army he, himself, reported to the prime minister that the military is prepared to assist police forces in keeping peace and order when necessary.

Asked if it is possible that the caretaker government will declare a state of emergency, the army chief said the caretaker premier did not raise the issue.

"I personally view that it's unnecessary to declare the state of emergency at the moment," he added.

The army chief said he reported to the caretaker prime minister that the military would step in only after a state of emergency was declared...more

--TNA 2006-03-22

[Plus]

Last time they encircled Taksin's office, and rather effectively. Interesting to see what they have in mind next.

Britmaveric, you said numerous times that Taksin is supported by vast majority. BUT, as someone mentioned earlier, no one ever voted for Taksin, his name was never on a ballot, and never will be. People voted for the party, removing Taksin will not betray their votes or go against their choices.

Everyone knows, of course, that vote for TRT is a vote for Taksin, just like everyone knows that he broke Constitutional rules and is unfit for the office.

If he doesn't recognise people's opinion on his corrupt practices, he can't simultaneously claim that he was elected by people either.

Interesting legal turn, huh?

[britmaveric]

Last time they encircled Taksin's office, and rather effectively. Interesting to see what they have in mind next.

Britmaveric, you said numerous times that Taksin is supported by vast majority. BUT, as someone mentioned earlier, no one ever voted for Taksin, his name was never on a ballot, and never will be. People voted for the party, removing Taksin will not betray their votes or go against their choices.

Everyone knows, of course, that vote for TRT is a vote for Taksin, just like everyone knows that he broke Constitutional rules and is unfit for the office.

If he doesn't recognise people's opinion on his corrupt practices, he can't simultaneously claim that he was elected by people either.

Interesting legal turn, huh?

Ahhh but a vote for TRT means a vote for Thaksin!!! What will the protesters do when he doesnt resign?

Edited March 22, 2006 by britmaveric

[jdinasia]

Not for Brit ... he keeps it simple .... nothing matters but an election. He missed the point again ... noone voted for thaksin ....

Edited March 22, 2006 by jdinasia

[george]

Police tighten security measures ahead of weekend mass rally

BANGKOK: -- Extra police will be drafted in from the provinces to help maintain order at a mass anti-government rally planned for Saturday, Royal Thai Police spokesman Lieutenant General Achirawit Suphan-phesat said Wednesday.

He said there was concern about the potential for violence at the rally given the stepped up campaign by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) for even more public involvement in the protest.

General Achirawit said the police were adjusting their security plans by mobilising more officers from nearby provinces for deployment in the capital. The Bangkok metropolitan force was also exhausted by its policing of the continual anti-government protest campaign.

General Achirawit expressed confidence that with the additional security measures, the police would be able to cope with this weekend's mass gathering.

He also advised the public, especially road users in Bangkok, to keep themselves updated on the progress of the rallies in a bid to avoid traffic congestion.

The next PAD-led mass rally has been scheduled for the Makkawan Rangsan bridge on Saturday.

Protesters have also set Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra a 48-hour deadline to resign, or face decisive action to remove him of office.

--TNA 2006-03-23

[britmaveric]

Not for Brit ... he keeps it simple .... nothing matters but an election. He missed the point again ... noone voted for thaksin ....

I thought it was obvious Thaskin wasnt running? (sorry to disappoint you lot) Indirectly the people are voting for him via TRT. The people have the option of voting none. Now if these protests are valid and have made their point as the PAD thinks then none will be the winner and we'll have an end to this story.

Edited March 22, 2006 by britmaveric

[jdinasia]

Hope you come back to Thailand soon Brit ... maybe you'll get out and around people so you can understand it.

[britmaveric]

Hope you come back to Thailand soon Brit ... maybe you'll get out and around people so you can understand it.

[aaaaaa]

looks like T-bashing still goes on ..... not bored yet ?

I wonder - suppose T loses re-election and other guy repleces him - would he as popular here on TV and as "loved". makes me wish T lose - out of curiosity, to find out.

I bet that doesn't matter who is Thai PM - there would be enough folks here to say enogh "tender words" about him !

let's start a poll , huh ? and then when T is gone - we shall see who was right !

[Plus]

Indirectly the people are voting for him via TRT. The people have the option of voting none. Now if these protests are valid and have made their point as the PAD thinks then none will be the winner

PAD's point is that Taksin is not eligible for elections at all. There's no question of whether Taksin is eligible for office on not in the ballot. Choosing TRT of "none" will not address the issue of legitimacy and PAD's point will still be valid no matter what the outcome is, but I believe you alreary read that here on TV.

[ColPyat]

And, in fact, foreigners participating 'actively' at the ant-Thaksin protests are most welcome by all Thais attending. It shows that there is shared sentiment in their commitment to depose Thaksin and improve society. And that foreigners know of the current political crisis and are prepared to assist change things.

If you're against Thaksin - then the attitude of the protesters is that you're with them, in the same boat, and you are made most welcome.

Thais welcome the presence, interest and involvement of foreigners - so long as they act in a decent, responsible and civil way.

Apologies if this post sounds as if I'm evangelizing - it's just the way it came out.

There is one elderly Farang regularly on the demonstrations who even wears a yellow T-shirt. As far as i can tell his Thai language abilities are extremely limited. I wonder if he even understands the wider meaning of the yellow shirt.

But, yes, as a Farang not just observing but actively demonstrating you are in the same boat, especially when things turn violent. And the longer this goes on, the more hardened the positions become, the harsher the insults and the mudslinging become, the question is not anymore if, but when things turn violent. And as things are, when things get violent, the become incredibly nasty. I wonder if those farang demonstrating are aware that they might become targets.

I don't know if it is legal or not for foreigners to participate in demonstrations here in Thailand, but you can be sure that every farang attending will be photographed by the very extensive Thai intelligence services. I would not want to be in their files of possible political activists.

I have known several NGO activists and officials who were blacklisted over the years, often for comparatively little things such as more than a decade ago attending a conference in Mannerplaw.

As one poster mentioned - there may have been a certain lull in the usually very volatile Thai politics, but it does not mean that things cannot revert to the the old days.

Just remember the drugwar, thousands of Thais were summarily execued, and from that on there is a not so publicised government directive to blacklist every foreigner caught in even the most minor infraction on druglaws. Included can be even consumption of ganja, a infraction that does not even carry a prison sentence.

Thailand is not exactly a country where the rule of law is held up, and for personal security reasons the last thing i would do is being active in a political demonstration, especially if you have family here.

If blacklisted, none of the PAD would lift a finger get you back into the country.

[Hermano Lobo]

Caretaker PM given ultimatum to resign within 48 hours

BANGKOK: -- Anti-Thaksin demonstrators led by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) gave an ultimatum Tuesday evening that caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra resigns within 48 hours, or faces a decisive action to be ousted of office.

--TNA 2006-03-22

Will this turn to violence when the frustrations boil over ?

The man is a greedy insider dealer. He uses the uneducated farmers for

support. If he goes quietly and there is more open, accountable Democracy

and free speech. The actions of PAD could be well worthwhile.

That is the positive point of view ?

Edited March 22, 2006 by Hermano Lobo

[mrbojangles]

Any speculation on how they plan to escalate this when Thaksin does NOT resign in about 24 more hours?

Another ultimatum per usual for the millionth time. (broken record comes to mind)

They want to be the new "hub of ultimatum's" Brit

[lukamar]

There is one elderly Farang regularly on the demonstrations who even wears a yellow T-shirt. As far as i can tell his Thai language abilities are extremely limited. I wonder if he even understands the wider meaning of the yellow shirt.

But, yes, as a Farang not just observing but actively demonstrating you are in the same boat, especially when things turn violent. And the longer this goes on, the more hardened the positions become, the harsher the insults and the mudslinging become, the question is not anymore if, but when things turn violent. And as things are, when things get violent, the become incredibly nasty. I wonder if those farang demonstrating are aware that they might become targets.

I don't know if it is legal or not for foreigners to participate in demonstrations here in Thailand, but you can be sure that every farang attending will be photographed by the very extensive Thai intelligence services. I would not want to be in their files of possible political activists.

I have known several NGO activists and officials who were blacklisted over the years, often for comparatively little things such as more than a decade ago attending a conference in Mannerplaw.

As one poster mentioned - there may have been a certain lull in the usually very volatile Thai politics, but it does not mean that things cannot revert to the the old days.

Just remember the drugwar, thousands of Thais were summarily execued, and from that on there is a not so publicised government directive to blacklist every foreigner caught in even the most minor infraction on druglaws. Included can be even consumption of ganja, a infraction that does not even carry a prison sentence.

Thailand is not exactly a country where the rule of law is held up, and for personal security reasons the last thing i would do is being active in a political demonstration, especially if you have family here.

If blacklisted, none of the PAD would lift a finger get you back into the country.

I was trying to think of what to write on this subject. ColPyat summed it up nicely.

[Zoltan]

Oust the bugger!!!!.....

[Miaow]

Oust the bugger!!!!.....

Which one ??

[lung]

and wait.... and wait....

[kathyjune]

I hope that all of you are careful over there.