We deserve better: it's time to restart Thailand

[mimithewoof]

Just my take on Abhisit’s article -

Once more the world watches Thailand – sorry, but they don’t, the world is too busy watching the Ukraine, Syria, the Central African Republic and the shambolic Russian Winter Olympics.

Our future lies in the hands of the few whilst the many question where this will lead -
Thailand’s future is no way in the hands of a mob with a leader encompassing all the negative values he accuses others of possessing, and it obviously isn’t in the hands of the caretaker government any more.

Our country has tremendous potential - or it will have once a half-way decent education system is established …in my dreams, I’m afraid.

With our unique history in Southeast Asia as being a country that was never colonized -
and therefore not been able to embrace the positive developmental and financial advantages of a solid infrastructure and more modern ideas in order to defeat feudalism. Japan being a good example of how to benefit from occupation by another nation’s representatives.

We have much to gain from the establishment of the Asean economic community next year. – some slight concern about what ASEAN may well gain from Thailand night be apposite here.

We have an educated, professional workforce – Really?

A hub for automotive manufacturing, technology, services, leisure and the creative industries. – Japanese investments, a poor internet service across the board, a declining tourism industry due to scams, etc, etc, etc – finally, please define a creative industry here in Thailand.

It is an agricultural tour de force – which uses untold amounts of fertiliser chemicals banned in the West and of which a majority of the land is now owned by the wealthy instead of local small farmers

A determination to succeed, - always provided we have wealthy parents paying for our education, and even then we may not bother.

Passion to preserve what we call "Thai-ness" – a term describing a characteristic which is only understood or of any use in Thailand and which, unfortunately, may well be a distinct no-no in the international world.

Irrefutable demonstration that the Thai people believe they deserve a better system. – so sorry, but what’s happening on the streets of BKK right now is simply a demonstration of one charismatic but over-the-top protest leader’s ego and greed for the reins of power.

Our claim to be "by the people and for the people" – when were the Democrat Party ever interested in the vast mass of Thai people?

Over 30 incidents of violence against protesters and opposition leaders – the police, bystanders and locals killed or injured were all attempting violence against the protestors – if not, collateral damage is acceptable?

Why have millions taken to the streets? - Millions?????

Overwhelming majority of eligible voters who could go to vote unimpeded refuse to do so or actively submitted a no-vote? – Overwhelming majority???? Someone please, please give the man a calculator…

the drop in exports and, most recently, the drop in tourism after the declaration of the state of emergency– the drop in exports, of course, had nothing to do with an overvalued baht propped up by invisible hands? Tourism – death on the roads, the high baht, violence in the beach resorts, jet-ski scams, etc, had no effect on tourism numbers until the protests set in????

Where else can we find a government that publicly says it refuses to help people, denying them access to government programmes because they did not vote for the parties in power? Possibly by looking back to when the Dems were briefly in power.

Abhisit’s admittedly extremely well-written article is typical of the elitist spin used by the hi-so products of two of the UK’s most expensive education institutes, the private Eton College and the University of Oxford, whose fees are only affordable if Mummy and Daddy are wealthy and which has been known to refuse places to brilliant students from poor backgrounds, even if they have won local authority scholarships. Us Brits can recognise the style after the first few sentences and, having escaped from our feudal past and the present government’s attempts to revive it , are NOT impressed.

[aimbc]

Instead of demonizing the man try to READ the article and see why he removed himself from the democratic process. READ the article and understand the points he is making.

All that is ever spouted is elections, elections, elections. Democracy is not just elections. Yet people refuse too admit it. The UDD supporters on this site cannot even tell me what the principles of democracy are. Not one. They change the subject, demonize me or argue an unrelated fact. All great traits of a demagogue, but unfortunately not a trait of someone that yearns for democracy.

Abhisit has made it pretty clear the abuses under the current structure. Do the people want abuse of power, corruption, failed policies and a govt that said "if you don't vote for us we refuse you our services". When people vote for abuse of power, corruption, failed policies and a govt that said "if you don't vote for us we refuse you our services" they are voting for a failed state. Even though there was an election, that is not a democracy. It will eventually be a failed state. Reform is needed to ensure any future government cannot do the abuse whether it be PTP or DEM's or any sitting government.

Abhisit can be called a street thug or any other demonizing word that makes you feel that your supporting a righteous "team" while the opposition are evil and fascist, but at the end of the day that street thug is a citizen of Thailand that makes a dam_n factual point that opposition in their arrogance and holier than thou attitude dismiss as it does the overwhelming majority of Thailand which was shown in the last election to not support the PTP. Without extrapolating the figures and juggling numbers an overwhelming majority do want reform. An overwhelming majority do want free and fair elections. An overwhelming majority understand that voting is a gateway of the democratic process that allows a government to prove to the people it is democratic. An overwhelming majority DO NOT think that abuse of power, corruption and a govt that says "if you don't vote for us we refuse you our services" is democracy. Obviously you do because you defend it no, you ignore it and spout elections.

If I had to chose a repressive regime with dictatorial tendencies or a democratic street thug. I will choose the latter any day.

Well said!

[aimbc]

It's funny that many TV posters talk about Thai education system and how the education has made them unaware of what democracy is. Then when some one speaks up with some logic, knowledge and with an educational background, they coin them as elite and out of touch. I don't get some of you posters out there. So what do you want Thais to only do, listen to some of you expats who came from an awesome democracy system, that they left behind for this failed one?

[djjamie]

It really is time to restart Thailand.

Can we trust the DEM again? Will the people be fooled and taken hostage again? Shall we give them the benefit for doubt?

Thailand cannot restart when he uses holier than thou attitude and talk self-righteously, uses all the excuses and accusations mentioned here to block the restart button.

Thailand needs to forgive (first on oneself and then to others), then move on to reconciliation (First on self and others) then unity and healing and recovery will take place. A broken bone responded to healing process and when recovered becomes stronger.

With the reconciliation bill and its intention smeared and murdered, where do we go from here?

BANGKOK: -- Once more the world watches Thailand and what looks to be a never-ending stalemate: powerful protests, wanton random acts of violence, divisive and hateful content in our press and social media. The Thai people have been through this cycle of failed government for too long. Our future lies in the hands of the few, whilst the many continue to question where this will lead us. We deserve better.

Who are these few?

Our country has tremendous potential. With our unique history in Southeast Asia as being a country that was never colonised, we have undergone a revolution of development, teetering on the edge of being a "developed market". The second largest economy in Asean after Indonesia and geographically at the centre of continental Asean, we have much to gain from the establishment of the Asean economic community next year.

We have an educated, professional workforce. Our country is a hub for automotive manufacturing, technology, services, leisure and the creative industries. It is an agricultural tour de force. Behind our famous Thai smile, there is a strong sense of national pride, a determination to succeed, a passion to preserve what we call "Thai-ness", and the will and ability to continue to grow, develop and perform, both nationally and globally.

Yet it is the politics that has failed us. What is happening on the streets of Bangkok today is an irrefutable demonstration that the Thai people believe they deserve a better system. As the leader of the Democrat Party, I must share the blame for the failed politics, but at the same time I cannot shy away from my responsibilities to help lead the country from the current stalemate

You lost your credibility, legitimacy and authority to lead the country from the current stalemate you and your ‘masters’ created.

and I urge all political leaders including the current prime minister and all the political parties to do likewise. We must never forget that our claim to be "by the people and for the people" means our first duty is to serve the Thai people. We have a moral duty to "do the right thing".

We have a moral duty to "do the right thing".

You and the DEM have lost the credibility and authority to talk about “Moral Duty”. What is this “Right Thing”. Talk, talk, talk, and doing the opposite has been the hallmark of AV and the DEM.

Despite our differences, we should all agree on some key principles. We want to preserve our democracy, so there must be no coups and all violence must be condemned and stopped. We must all demand progress in bringing to account the perpetrators of over 30 incidents of violence against protesters and opposition leaders in the last few months.

He is now trying to evade responsibilities and attempting to shift ‘goal posts’ here. It is not just the last few months. It should go back to pre-coup and after coup. Many are still in prisons without trial. Also, many criminal cases got postponing for at least six years by now.

And while we can agree on condemning voter obstruction, we must also protect the right of Thais to protest peacefully, for such a right is surely one of the hallmarks of democracy.

Who against Thais the right protest peacefully? Who challenged that constitutional right of the people? On the protests over the last two years, they were violation of civil and individual rights. Law and order enforcement officers were obstructed from carrying up their duties to protect public interests and safety. The constitutional right to protest peacefully were violated and abused.

The current demonstrations/rallies/marches/protests were not peaceful. Speeches from the stages were that of inciting people to overthrow a democratically people elected government. Seizing of government offices, buildings, intimidating workers stopping works – against their will, to join protests. Police were prevented from violence sites to carry up their investigations – obstruction of police works and covering up of evidence.

For the country to move ahead, we need to understand the grievances of the people protesting on the streets and those whose protest is registered with a no-vote or by simply not voting in the recent snap election. Only then can we draw up a roadmap for the future of the country.

AV is not talking about moving ahead. He is trying to wriggle out of the mess he, the dem and its PDRC/PCAD created for the country and the people. Who are protesting on the streets now? Employed guards and grannies and exploited, and intimidated rice, rubber and oil palm farmers? The country will not move ahead when the real grievances is that of the alleged crimes hanging over the heads of the DEM.

Who knows who are those protested with a no-vote or by simply not voting. The reality is that they were also voters exercise they voting right while many were criminally prevented. The candidate right to register was also criminally violated. These activities are anti-democracy

Such a roadmap must include a return to free and fair elections, accepted by all sides,

He is setting conditions. He is trying to shift the ‘goal posts’ again. The 2 Feb was conducted and now continuing under the same rules, he and his coalition partners set by amending the election section of the 2007 Constitution.

and a clear, credible commitment to irreversible and comprehensive reforms.

The government together with the business communities, academics and various institutions had come together to initiate reform but the DEM not only boycotted them but went around Thailand criticizing the government’s initiatives.

So why are we in this political deadlock? Why have millions taken to the streets?

Millions??? He is distorting, misleading and treating Thais and world communities like a fool.

Why was there a boycott of the elections

Because the DEM is afraid of the people’s mandate and wanted to seize power unconstitutionally. There was no boycotting from at least 50 other political parties.

and why did an overwhelming majority of eligible voters who could go to vote unimpeded refuse to do so

There was an overwhelming majority voter who wanted to vote. They were scared by the EC scare mongering before the election. Voters were also scared of their safety because of violence before the election – violence in blocking the distribution of ballot boxes and papers. Candidates were denied the right to registered. Voting centres closed thus denied voters’ right who turned up. Voting centres were closed early and thus denied people the right to vote. Physical violence against voters.

or actively submitted a no-vote?

Most of those submitted to no-vote are mainly from DEM dominated areas.

The answers to these questions will enable us to identify the needed components for the roadmap.

The trigger for the unrest was the government's attempt to pass an amnesty bill that permitted the return of a fugitive, self-exiled former prime minister, whitewash his crimes of corruption and return Bt46 billion of assets to him.

The government did not attempt to pass the amnesty bill as accused. It was the legislators. Even if the accusations were true, it serves more interests to the country especially to the AV, Suthep, PAD, the military and the coup makers, supporters and financiers.

Many RS/UDD were still in jails without trial. Some were jailed and now on bail conditions awaiting trials. Whilst many criminal cases of PAD leaders get postponing for about six years by now. None of them has ever step into jail a single day.

This same administration was subsequently found guilty of manipulating votes and of fraud in Parliament.

Which cabinet minister found guilty of manipulating vote in parliament? How many of them? A group of appointed senators were in violation of constitution – a violation of conflict of interests and independence.

When the courts announced the verdict, the administration refused to accept it.

It was the legislator, not the government who refused to accept it. The legislators wanted to impeach the judges for violating their constitutional rights, abused of power and conflict of interests.

Adding to these woes now is the failure of the rice-pledging scheme. At least one million Thai farmers are waiting for payment for their last crop, with many payments outstanding from October last year.

The EC disallowed a loan arrangement to pay the LAST CROP. The dem’s PDRC/PCAD also threatened banks if they entered into arrangement that will pay the rice farmers.

The policy, which promised to pay farmers far above the market price for their rice, was doomed from the start.

The DEM using disruptive and obstructionist politics to put obstacles on the implementation of the scheme.

We Democrats said then and we see now that it would not and has not worked - as the IMF, respected academics and many others did.

IMF and many respected academics have often been proved wrong on many occasions and issues

Costing over Bt200 billion a year in losses, less than half of which benefits farmers,

The scheme was never meant to be a direct profit-making scheme. It is to raise the living standard of the farmer and thus boost domestic consumptions and ensure food security

as well as losing the country's status as the world's top rice exporter,

This is a bad argument. Changing world situation and large migration of workers from rice exporting countries to various rice importing countries is a challenge faced by all governments. Increasingly, many countries treat food security as part of national security. Negotiation and statistics are held in confidential. Information can only be accessed through correct and appropriate legal channels and security scrutiny.

the scheme is also full of corruption

So far, how many government officials and ministers were convicted of corruption and irregularities? If AV is fighting corruption, then target corruption not the policy.

and the National Anti-Corruption Commission is now expected to bring formal charges against caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra for her role in the scheme later this month.

Caretaker PM has always has a role in the scheme. It is a policy of the government. AV should allowed NACC to conduct investigation without putting pressure. Everyone is looking forward to the investigation - cross-examining witnesses and evidence and the overall social impact and of the economy.

Failure to pay the farmers due to the lack of proceeds from the sale of the government rice stock

I already mentioned above that it is not meant to be a direct money making scheme.

adds to the economic woes caused by the failure of the subsidised first car scheme,

What failure?

the drop in exports

a problem not just of Thailand.

and, most recently, the drop in tourism after the declaration of the state of emergency.

He is trying to exonerate from his responsibilities and the activities of overthrowing a people elected government.

People protest because they are unsure their needs will be acknowledged. Thais are protesting against corruption. They are protesting against abuses of power. They are protesting against failed populist policies.

AV is using smear, untruth, and distortion to misinform and mislead people. The truth is that the DEM has consistently failed to win an election for the last twenty years. Just look at their own corruption and abused of power records.

They no longer trust politicians and the political process, including elections which they do not believe can be free and fair,

That is the reason the DEM could not win an election consistently for the last twenty years and their performance getting worse each time.

given the intimidation against political opposition,

How were they intimidated?

the courts and all institutions that provide checks and balance over the last few years by government supporters, the police and the Department of Special Investigations.

The truth is that the officials of the institutions and judges of courts corrupted check and balance. No one in the government or PTP deny the need to have check and balance. The truth is also that DSI and police are investigating the alleged wrong doings committed by the DEM led administration and BMA.

They can no longer tolerate "politics as usual" where an elected government abuses the democratic process and institutions to put itself above the law. Where else in the world have we seen a democratically elected government attempt to pass a law to whitewash corruption crimes of members of the leader's family?

He is using smear and distortion again. Did PM YS directly involvement in the legislating process of passing the amnesty bill? What were the corruption crimes of members of the leader's family?

Where else in the world that a government was arranged and installed by the coup makers, supporters and financiers. These people wrote their own law that pardoned themselves. These people wrote their constitution without the participation of the people. They even passed a law before the referendum that made opposing and the discussing of the constitution a criminal offense.

Where else can we find a government that publicly says it refuses to help people, denying them access to government programmes because they did not vote for the parties in power?

Who said that? Distortion, smear and untruth again

That is why we and an overwhelming majority refused to participate in elections designed to legitimise the continuation of these abusive practices.

Overwhelming majority? Did not the DEM chicken out of the election? Distortion and untruth again.

The current protest is not a Democrat Party protest.

So, the DEM is not protesting. Why did their MPs resign en masse to join the PDRC/PCAD?

An Asia Foundation survey found that two-thirds of protesters have never participated in political demonstrations before. It is a protest of the people and they deserve the right to reform. We in the Democrat Party agree with their right to protest and their right to reform.

Of course, two-third never participated political demonstration before. It is a protest of the misguided, misled, intimidated, manipulated and the maneuvered.

We may not agree with their proposed means to achieve reform and we do not wish to see democracy suspended.

Is he saying that the means of PDRC/PCAD are unconscionable and violated section 68?

But we wholeheartedly agree with the need for comprehensive reform to rid the system of corruption and abuses, to give the people honest and effective governments from democratic elections, governments who remain democratically accountable after elections.

He only know how to talk these issues. He did not put what he preaches when had the opportunity after being arranged to be the PM.

Only such reforms can guarantee responsible national, social and effective economic management that does not jeopardise the country's and our children's future. This is what Thailand and the Thai people deserve.

He is still unclear about the reforms he was talking. Reforms and its transparency and clarity can only happened when he takes part in the reform initiative. Unfortunately, he rejected all reform initiatives

Yet reforms cannot begin with this government's plan to continue with these sham elections.

What sham elections. Organizing a clean and fair election is the job of the EC. Is he accusing the EC?

This will take months and may lead to further violence and ultimately fail to fill a quorum for Parliament or even be unlawful.

Of course, if election being part of democratic process cannot solve problem, there will be further violence. It sounds like he is trying to block election rather than making it a success.

Likewise, we need to face the reality that only someone credible and accepted by all sides can lead the reform process and manage the short transition to new elections in which everyone participates. That someone is clearly not the current government, the protest leaders nor the Democrat Party.

What did he means by “…..manage the (1) SHORT TRANSITION (2) to new elections (3) in which everyone participates.

Only someone credible and accepted by all sides can lead the reform process and manage the short transition to new elections in which everyone participates

Does he has a name of someone someone credible and accepted by all sides?

The country cannot afford to lose more time.

To not waste more time is to stop playing political games and keep shifting goal posts. Start taking part in all democratic processes. To get out of the victim mentality world.

Every day the stalemate continues means a loss of opportunity for the economy, the country and the people. It's time to chart an alternative course. Thailand has proved resilient in the past, bouncing back from economic and political crises. The country can surely turn the new-found energy and unprecedented level of political awareness and engagement into strong foundations for a stronger and better system.

So stop playing political games and keep shifting goal post. Start taking part in all democratic processes. To get out of the victim mentality world.

Political leaders must be the first to move. It is time for the government to engage others.

The government has been trying to engage others, but the others keep playing political games and disruptive politics

So many groups have been working on reforms - the business community, NGOs, the Political Development Council, to mention a few.

Why the DEM rejected these initiatives?

Tell me about the principles of democracy? When you do I will tell you how the PTP don't adhere too them including elections. I can even give you the answers in red!

Edited February 20, 2014 by djjamie

[tilac2]

Generally a pretty good screed from Abhisit, showing the benefits of his Eton - Oxford education and political nous on the international front. Where he fails, is pushing the right buttons on the domestic front to rise above the fray and show himself to be a statesman who can heal over the festering sores that have formed in Thailand these past few years. The partial use of Lincoln's address on "government of the people, for the people, by the people" rings kind of hollow in this case, especially given his mention in the first paragraph that "our future lies in the hands of the few" and the Democrats continual defence of a system of governance that benefits the few and at the expense of the masses. All the same, he is streaks ahead Thaksin (and entire PTP party) in terms of demonstrating intelligence and insight through his writing (surely they would have to rely on the paid services of Robert Amsterdam to come up with a similar opinion piece), and in an unedifying field, he still stands out as the only respectable candidate for future PM. Would that there be someone better standing up to the plate, but there ain't, so Abhisit scrapes through by default.

Damned with faint praise!

That's the best this supercilious, waste-of-space ex-Etonite is likely to get in tribute as his political career comes to its well-deserved finish.

(and to think that I once admired this bloke - mea culpa!)

[hellodolly]

Can't restart Thailand until the rule of law is enforced. From petty crime to government. corruption.

Reform the police and the rest should fall into place.

Well you are right to a point. Unfortunately the rule of law is week. It needs some teeth put into it.

Yes reform the police department. But understand minimum wages is not going to do the trick. Pay them a decent salary and immediately fire any one caught taking a bribe. That includes the ones taking bribes from bike riders with out a helmet. Harsh but it will do the job.

It is not going to be an overnight fix but it will defiantly improve the quality of law enforcement.

As for the Government Abhist hit it right on the head when he said the reform should not be done by Democrats or PTP. The cry will go out but who can do the job. I don't know as I am not that familiar with all the people in Thailand. But I do know there are people capable of doing it. 66 million is a lot of people and what is wrong with a non Thai on the committee. We are concerned with improving The law of the land and it's enforcement not who thinks up the answer. Abhist had a good idea when he suggested NGOs be included.

I believe Abhist is the man to lead the nation but not the one to make changes as they no matter how good will be seen as self serving by some. Give the country a good constitution with teeth in it and people to back it up then have an election.

[hellodolly]

It really is time to restart Thailand.

Can we trust the DEM again? Will the people be fooled and taken hostage again? Shall we give them the benefit for doubt?

Thailand cannot restart when he uses holier than thou attitude and talk self-righteously, uses all the excuses and accusations mentioned here to block the restart button.

Thailand needs to forgive (first on oneself and then to others), then move on to reconciliation (First on self and others) then unity and healing and recovery will take place. A broken bone responded to healing process and when recovered becomes stronger.

With the reconciliation bill and its intention smeared and murdered, where do we go from here?

BANGKOK: -- Once more the world watches Thailand and what looks to be a never-ending stalemate: powerful protests, wanton random acts of violence, divisive and hateful content in our press and social media. The Thai people have been through this cycle of failed government for too long. Our future lies in the hands of the few, whilst the many continue to question where this will lead us. We deserve better.

Who are these few?

Our country has tremendous potential. With our unique history in Southeast Asia as being a country that was never colonised, we have undergone a revolution of development, teetering on the edge of being a "developed market". The second largest economy in Asean after Indonesia and geographically at the centre of continental Asean, we have much to gain from the establishment of the Asean economic community next year.

We have an educated, professional workforce. Our country is a hub for automotive manufacturing, technology, services, leisure and the creative industries. It is an agricultural tour de force. Behind our famous Thai smile, there is a strong sense of national pride, a determination to succeed, a passion to preserve what we call "Thai-ness", and the will and ability to continue to grow, develop and perform, both nationally and globally.

Yet it is the politics that has failed us. What is happening on the streets of Bangkok today is an irrefutable demonstration that the Thai people believe they deserve a better system. As the leader of the Democrat Party, I must share the blame for the failed politics, but at the same time I cannot shy away from my responsibilities to help lead the country from the current stalemate

You lost your credibility, legitimacy and authority to lead the country from the current stalemate you and your ‘masters’ created.

and I urge all political leaders including the current prime minister and all the political parties to do likewise. We must never forget that our claim to be "by the people and for the people" means our first duty is to serve the Thai people. We have a moral duty to "do the right thing".

We have a moral duty to "do the right thing".

You and the DEM have lost the credibility and authority to talk about “Moral Duty”. What is this “Right Thing”. Talk, talk, talk, and doing the opposite has been the hallmark of AV and the DEM.

Despite our differences, we should all agree on some key principles. We want to preserve our democracy, so there must be no coups and all violence must be condemned and stopped. We must all demand progress in bringing to account the perpetrators of over 30 incidents of violence against protesters and opposition leaders in the last few months.

He is now trying to evade responsibilities and attempting to shift ‘goal posts’ here. It is not just the last few months. It should go back to pre-coup and after coup. Many are still in prisons without trial. Also, many criminal cases got postponing for at least six years by now.

And while we can agree on condemning voter obstruction, we must also protect the right of Thais to protest peacefully, for such a right is surely one of the hallmarks of democracy.

Who against Thais the right protest peacefully? Who challenged that constitutional right of the people? On the protests over the last two years, they were violation of civil and individual rights. Law and order enforcement officers were obstructed from carrying up their duties to protect public interests and safety. The constitutional right to protest peacefully were violated and abused.

The current demonstrations/rallies/marches/protests were not peaceful. Speeches from the stages were that of inciting people to overthrow a democratically people elected government. Seizing of government offices, buildings, intimidating workers stopping works – against their will, to join protests. Police were prevented from violence sites to carry up their investigations – obstruction of police works and covering up of evidence.

For the country to move ahead, we need to understand the grievances of the people protesting on the streets and those whose protest is registered with a no-vote or by simply not voting in the recent snap election. Only then can we draw up a roadmap for the future of the country.

AV is not talking about moving ahead. He is trying to wriggle out of the mess he, the dem and its PDRC/PCAD created for the country and the people. Who are protesting on the streets now? Employed guards and grannies and exploited, and intimidated rice, rubber and oil palm farmers? The country will not move ahead when the real grievances is that of the alleged crimes hanging over the heads of the DEM.

Who knows who are those protested with a no-vote or by simply not voting. The reality is that they were also voters exercise they voting right while many were criminally prevented. The candidate right to register was also criminally violated. These activities are anti-democracy

Such a roadmap must include a return to free and fair elections, accepted by all sides,

He is setting conditions. He is trying to shift the ‘goal posts’ again. The 2 Feb was conducted and now continuing under the same rules, he and his coalition partners set by amending the election section of the 2007 Constitution.

and a clear, credible commitment to irreversible and comprehensive reforms.

The government together with the business communities, academics and various institutions had come together to initiate reform but the DEM not only boycotted them but went around Thailand criticizing the government’s initiatives.

So why are we in this political deadlock? Why have millions taken to the streets?

Millions??? He is distorting, misleading and treating Thais and world communities like a fool.

Why was there a boycott of the elections

Because the DEM is afraid of the people’s mandate and wanted to seize power unconstitutionally. There was no boycotting from at least 50 other political parties.

and why did an overwhelming majority of eligible voters who could go to vote unimpeded refuse to do so

There was an overwhelming majority voter who wanted to vote. They were scared by the EC scare mongering before the election. Voters were also scared of their safety because of violence before the election – violence in blocking the distribution of ballot boxes and papers. Candidates were denied the right to registered. Voting centres closed thus denied voters’ right who turned up. Voting centres were closed early and thus denied people the right to vote. Physical violence against voters.

or actively submitted a no-vote?

Most of those submitted to no-vote are mainly from DEM dominated areas.

The answers to these questions will enable us to identify the needed components for the roadmap.

The trigger for the unrest was the government's attempt to pass an amnesty bill that permitted the return of a fugitive, self-exiled former prime minister, whitewash his crimes of corruption and return Bt46 billion of assets to him.

The government did not attempt to pass the amnesty bill as accused. It was the legislators. Even if the accusations were true, it serves more interests to the country especially to the AV, Suthep, PAD, the military and the coup makers, supporters and financiers.

Many RS/UDD were still in jails without trial. Some were jailed and now on bail conditions awaiting trials. Whilst many criminal cases of PAD leaders get postponing for about six years by now. None of them has ever step into jail a single day.

This same administration was subsequently found guilty of manipulating votes and of fraud in Parliament.

Which cabinet minister found guilty of manipulating vote in parliament? How many of them? A group of appointed senators were in violation of constitution – a violation of conflict of interests and independence.

When the courts announced the verdict, the administration refused to accept it.

It was the legislator, not the government who refused to accept it. The legislators wanted to impeach the judges for violating their constitutional rights, abused of power and conflict of interests.

Adding to these woes now is the failure of the rice-pledging scheme. At least one million Thai farmers are waiting for payment for their last crop, with many payments outstanding from October last year.

The EC disallowed a loan arrangement to pay the LAST CROP. The dem’s PDRC/PCAD also threatened banks if they entered into arrangement that will pay the rice farmers.

The policy, which promised to pay farmers far above the market price for their rice, was doomed from the start.

The DEM using disruptive and obstructionist politics to put obstacles on the implementation of the scheme.

We Democrats said then and we see now that it would not and has not worked - as the IMF, respected academics and many others did.

IMF and many respected academics have often been proved wrong on many occasions and issues

Costing over Bt200 billion a year in losses, less than half of which benefits farmers,

The scheme was never meant to be a direct profit-making scheme. It is to raise the living standard of the farmer and thus boost domestic consumptions and ensure food security

as well as losing the country's status as the world's top rice exporter,

This is a bad argument. Changing world situation and large migration of workers from rice exporting countries to various rice importing countries is a challenge faced by all governments. Increasingly, many countries treat food security as part of national security. Negotiation and statistics are held in confidential. Information can only be accessed through correct and appropriate legal channels and security scrutiny.

the scheme is also full of corruption

So far, how many government officials and ministers were convicted of corruption and irregularities? If AV is fighting corruption, then target corruption not the policy.

and the National Anti-Corruption Commission is now expected to bring formal charges against caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra for her role in the scheme later this month.

Caretaker PM has always has a role in the scheme. It is a policy of the government. AV should allowed NACC to conduct investigation without putting pressure. Everyone is looking forward to the investigation - cross-examining witnesses and evidence and the overall social impact and of the economy.

Failure to pay the farmers due to the lack of proceeds from the sale of the government rice stock

I already mentioned above that it is not meant to be a direct money making scheme.

adds to the economic woes caused by the failure of the subsidised first car scheme,

What failure?

the drop in exports

a problem not just of Thailand.

and, most recently, the drop in tourism after the declaration of the state of emergency.

He is trying to exonerate from his responsibilities and the activities of overthrowing a people elected government.

People protest because they are unsure their needs will be acknowledged. Thais are protesting against corruption. They are protesting against abuses of power. They are protesting against failed populist policies.

AV is using smear, untruth, and distortion to misinform and mislead people. The truth is that the DEM has consistently failed to win an election for the last twenty years. Just look at their own corruption and abused of power records.

They no longer trust politicians and the political process, including elections which they do not believe can be free and fair,

That is the reason the DEM could not win an election consistently for the last twenty years and their performance getting worse each time.

given the intimidation against political opposition,

How were they intimidated?

the courts and all institutions that provide checks and balance over the last few years by government supporters, the police and the Department of Special Investigations.

The truth is that the officials of the institutions and judges of courts corrupted check and balance. No one in the government or PTP deny the need to have check and balance. The truth is also that DSI and police are investigating the alleged wrong doings committed by the DEM led administration and BMA.

They can no longer tolerate "politics as usual" where an elected government abuses the democratic process and institutions to put itself above the law. Where else in the world have we seen a democratically elected government attempt to pass a law to whitewash corruption crimes of members of the leader's family?

He is using smear and distortion again. Did PM YS directly involvement in the legislating process of passing the amnesty bill? What were the corruption crimes of members of the leader's family?

Where else in the world that a government was arranged and installed by the coup makers, supporters and financiers. These people wrote their own law that pardoned themselves. These people wrote their constitution without the participation of the people. They even passed a law before the referendum that made opposing and the discussing of the constitution a criminal offense.

Where else can we find a government that publicly says it refuses to help people, denying them access to government programmes because they did not vote for the parties in power?

Who said that? Distortion, smear and untruth again

That is why we and an overwhelming majority refused to participate in elections designed to legitimise the continuation of these abusive practices.

Overwhelming majority? Did not the DEM chicken out of the election? Distortion and untruth again.

The current protest is not a Democrat Party protest.

So, the DEM is not protesting. Why did their MPs resign en masse to join the PDRC/PCAD?

An Asia Foundation survey found that two-thirds of protesters have never participated in political demonstrations before. It is a protest of the people and they deserve the right to reform. We in the Democrat Party agree with their right to protest and their right to reform.

Of course, two-third never participated political demonstration before. It is a protest of the misguided, misled, intimidated, manipulated and the maneuvered.

We may not agree with their proposed means to achieve reform and we do not wish to see democracy suspended.

Is he saying that the means of PDRC/PCAD are unconscionable and violated section 68?

But we wholeheartedly agree with the need for comprehensive reform to rid the system of corruption and abuses, to give the people honest and effective governments from democratic elections, governments who remain democratically accountable after elections.

He only know how to talk these issues. He did not put what he preaches when had the opportunity after being arranged to be the PM.

Only such reforms can guarantee responsible national, social and effective economic management that does not jeopardise the country's and our children's future. This is what Thailand and the Thai people deserve.

He is still unclear about the reforms he was talking. Reforms and its transparency and clarity can only happened when he takes part in the reform initiative. Unfortunately, he rejected all reform initiatives

Yet reforms cannot begin with this government's plan to continue with these sham elections.

What sham elections. Organizing a clean and fair election is the job of the EC. Is he accusing the EC?

This will take months and may lead to further violence and ultimately fail to fill a quorum for Parliament or even be unlawful.

Of course, if election being part of democratic process cannot solve problem, there will be further violence. It sounds like he is trying to block election rather than making it a success.

Likewise, we need to face the reality that only someone credible and accepted by all sides can lead the reform process and manage the short transition to new elections in which everyone participates. That someone is clearly not the current government, the protest leaders nor the Democrat Party.

What did he means by “…..manage the (1) SHORT TRANSITION (2) to new elections (3) in which everyone participates.

Only someone credible and accepted by all sides can lead the reform process and manage the short transition to new elections in which everyone participates

Does he has a name of someone someone credible and accepted by all sides?

The country cannot afford to lose more time.

To not waste more time is to stop playing political games and keep shifting goal posts. Start taking part in all democratic processes. To get out of the victim mentality world.

Every day the stalemate continues means a loss of opportunity for the economy, the country and the people. It's time to chart an alternative course. Thailand has proved resilient in the past, bouncing back from economic and political crises. The country can surely turn the new-found energy and unprecedented level of political awareness and engagement into strong foundations for a stronger and better system.

So stop playing political games and keep shifting goal post. Start taking part in all democratic processes. To get out of the victim mentality world.

Political leaders must be the first to move. It is time for the government to engage others.

The government has been trying to engage others, but the others keep playing political games and disruptive politics

So many groups have been working on reforms - the business community, NGOs, the Political Development Council, to mention a few.

Why the DEM rejected these initiatives?

Well it would help if he could understand what was being said Read what he says about the Dems and then read what Abhist had to say about who would do the reforming.

It really is time to restart Thailand.

Can we trust the DEM again? Will the people be fooled and taken hostage again? Shall we give them the benefit for doubt?

Thailand cannot restart when he uses holier than thou attitude and talk self-righteously, uses all the excuses and accusations mentioned here to block the restart button.

.

As the leader of the Democrat Party, I must share the blame for the failed politics, but at the same time I cannot shy away from my responsibilities to help lead the country from the current stalemate

The quotes in Black are Abhist words. They sound to me like a man with morals and honesty. He is not claiming he can do any thing he is saying that he is partly responsible and should not be a part of the reform process.

Likewise, we need to face the reality that only someone credible and accepted by all sides can lead the reform process and manage the short transition to new elections in which everyone participates. That someone is clearly not the current government, the protest leaders nor the Democrat Party.

Only someone credible and accepted by all sides can lead the reform process and manage the short transition to new elections in which everyone participates

Pretty much shows he has no idea of reality just drivel. I wonder what he hopes to gain with his rant's.

No body tries to warp reality that bad with out a thought of getting some thing in return for it.

[tilac2]

Tell me about the principles of democracy? When you do I will tell you how the PTP don't adhere too them including elections. I can even give you the answers in red!

Please tell me about the principles of democracy?

I'm begging you.

I've asked so many many many times. Please.

Give the answers in red or in blue - even in pink or yellow.

I know nothing. I am a simple farmer with but one (sick) buffalo. I need this wisdom from you.

[Hulkster]

For the country to move ahead, we need to understand the grievances of the people protesting on the streets and those whose protest is registered with a no-vote or by simply not voting in the recent snap election. Only then can we draw up a roadmap for the future of the country. Such a roadmap must include a return to free and fair elections, accepted by all sides, and a clear, credible commitment to irreversible and comprehensive reforms.

So why are we in this political deadlock? Why have millions taken to the streets? Why was there a boycott of the elections and why did an overwhelming majority of eligible voters who could go to vote unimpeded refuse to do so or actively submitted a no-vote? The answers to these questions will enable us to identify the needed components for the roadmap.

Ignoring the lies about the election being "boycotted", notice it's all from his insular Bangkok perspective. No attempt to reach out to and include rural Thais in the conversation. No attempt to understand why they have resoundingly rejected the policies of the Democrats for two decades. Just lies, exaggerations and mistruths that help further his cause.

The message to rural voters is that the Sino-Thais still know what's best for you. You can have your democracy but on our terms only.

[tilac2]

@icommunity

Why the choice of red print..........silly question.

all in all though an informative post,full of passion but rather tedious.

I have to ask you though, for you,me and for the many thousands of other farangs living here,does it really matter to us ?

It matters to me a Thai even though living in Thailand about half of the time in a year. I am sure those farangs who choose to live in Thailand want to see a peaceful, harmonious, progressive, prosperous Thailand. Whether for business or other personal reasons, Thailand deserve to be a Nation of choice. However, during this 'transition' we have to endure and accept the 'pain of gestation.' They are process and procedure to follow before a successful delivery.

Hi icommunity,

I really appreciate your post answering Abhisit. As you demonstrated, his article is largely based on distortions and lies.

Abhisit is a smarmy arrogant apologist for the status quo. But what else would you expect from an old Etonite? I have met many of them over the years and they often have that attitude. Most of the Etonites don't quite realise that the British Empire has completed its run. Abhisit has this timewarp problem. He doesn't think the British Empire is finished: he just thinks it has been transferred to Thailand and that he can treat the ordinary Thais as the old slave-traders treated their purchases, and that they will not expose his lies and manipulations.

My one hope now is that Yingluck manages to hang onto power and keep this awful imperialist out of power for all time.

BTW if you want to see the Thai upper classes in all their shamefaced 'glory' you have to see 'The Tatler'. No, really! It is the old British magazine for the upper-classes, but transferred to Thailand:

It's called 'The Thailand Tatler', and describes itself as 'a premiere magazine for influential and sophisticated people in Thailand who love to be in trend and be part of the high-end luxury market'.

On these pages you will see the people who are (allegedly) funding Suthep, who are (allegedly) funding the 'disgruntled farmers', who are disparaging the Isaan people, who don't want the Senate to be fully elected, who want the ordinary people to be 'kept in their place'. You can see photos of them driving around in their high-end sportscars and lounging in their boutique hotels.

These people make me think that Thailand today is like England of the 18th century - except that England then was so much more enlightened!

Thailand has a mountain to climb!

[Basil B]

May be a Spanish type Inquisition to see who is a fit and proper person to stand for public office.

[DrTuner]

I used to have a hobby of restoring classic cars. When I got one that was in as bad a shape as Thailand is, I'd strip it and sandblast the chassis to get rid of the rust before welding new metal on.

Makes me wonder if there would be anything left after I'd directed my blasting hose at Thai politics. My guess is it would look like a mini Sahara.

[Trickcyclist]

Clearly, the only way to fix this is colonization. (ducking)

Its already happened. Our colonial master resides in Dubai as an absentee puppet master.