Thai politics - Top brass to step in

[webfact]

POLITICS
Top brass to step in
The Nation


Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra arrives at the National Anti-Corruption Commission yesterday to defend herself against the charge of condoning corruption in connection with the government

Military commanders will gather tomorrow to discuss political crisis amid fear of confrontation this weekend

BANGKOK: -- In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday.

Armed Forces Supreme Commander General Tanasak Patimapragorn has invited top military commanders - Army chief General Prayuth Chan-ocha, Navy chief Adm Narong Pipatanasai, and Air Force chief ACM Prajin Juntong - for a meeting with him tomorrow, a source familiar with the matter said yesterday.

The Supreme Commander felt that if the political deadlock was allowed to continue further, more damage would be done to the country, according to the source, who said the number of tourist arrivals had greatly declined.

This move by the military was not aimed at pressuring any side in particular, but intended to find a way out for the country, according to the source, who is a senior officer in the armed forces.

The source ruled out any chance of a coup, saying it would not be a "perfect way" to solve the problems and that the military had learned lessons from the past.

The red shirts plan their rally on Saturday, a week after the anti-government People's Democratic Reform Committee held its mass marches in Bangkok.

The military's move came as caretaker Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra met with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) on the last day of a deadline she was given, to explain allegations of her condoning corruption and dereliction of duty, in regard to the controversial rice price-pledging scheme.

The national anti-graft agency will decide today whether to grant Yingluck's request yesterday for additional testimony from 10 more witnesses and to submit more documents to support her case in its investigation, Prasart Pongsivapai, a member of the NACC, said. The NACC would base its decision on relevant laws and it would see whether there was a need to question more witnesses, Prasart said.

If the NACC agrees to the PM's request, the case will be delayed further. The agency was earlier expected to make its decision about the case during April. A decision to pursue the case would mean Yingluck would be likely to face an impeachment motion in the Senate, and a possible legal case with the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holders.

More than Bt400 billion in state funding has been lost in the scheme, which buys rice from farmers at well over the market price.

The prime minister is accused of failing to prevent corruption in the loss-making and graft-plagued scheme.

Yingluck arrived at the NACC office yesterday afternoon with her lawyers and a number of Cabinet ministers. Only her lawyers and Justice Minister Chaikasem Nitisiri were allowed to accompany the PM in her meeting with the NACC commissioners.

Waiting for her was an army of reporters, photographers and cameramen. The PM wore a cast on her left foot and was seated on a wheelchair shortly after her arrival. She recently suffered a damaged ligament from a fall.

All five NACC commissioners took part in the meeting, which lasted about 30 minutes. The prime minister later left without giving any interviews to the media.

Prasart said yesterday that the caretaker prime minister's presence indicated that she accepted the scrutiny process. He said the PM defended herself in writing as well as verbally.


-- The Nation 2014-04-01

[tezzainoz]

The latest in Fashion Wear

If Yingluck is in trouble and looking for sympathy on goes the brace shoe

If all is okay back to her normal shoes and all is well

Its like guessing the weather, what Yingluck footwear she will wear the next time she appears in public

[chooka]

"The Supreme Commander felt that if the political deadlock was allowed to continue further, more damage would be done to the country, according to the source, who said the number of tourist arrivals had greatly declined".

Appears their main concern is the lack of tourists to feed off.

[waza]

It was Thasin's scam, perpetuated by his clone sister and his sycophants, its was managed and policed by them. They even performed a stage show to guarantee the lack of corruption, headed by the darling of Issan.

The reality is Yingluck needs these to keep above the Kwai Faeces

[Why ask]

Well she can't even get out of a van, so I doubt she's going to get out of this mess quickly - sprained ankle or not.

[Fryslan boppe]

"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

Edited April 1, 2014 by Fryslan boppe

[ratcatcher]

The latest in Fashion Wear

If Yingluck is in trouble and looking for sympathy on goes the brace shoe

If all is okay back to her normal shoes and all is well

Its like guessing the weather, what Yingluck footwear she will wear the next time she appears in public

April 1st, time to give her The Boot.

[noitom]

"Top brass" are meeting and it's headline news in Thailand. They are worried that the political crisis will hurt tourism more. Thais top brass feels that military troops and tanks in the streets will help improve tourism because it will add a level of security to Bangkok.

[ABCer]

What should have happened long time ago.

Enough is enough. This BS slogans about Corruption must be put aside.

The country cannot function without Government.

And the Corruption issue must be resolved through democratic process unlike stupid Suthep slogans.

Reds, Yellows and all other colors must get some education on Democracy - First and Above All - Law and Order.

[NongKhaiKid]

It's another bad, misleading headline as it suggests the military have decided to act. I'm sure they have contingency plans and may well act at some point but the headline is premature and if written in future will be in the past tense as in " the top brass have stepped in. "

I'm sure in many countries when the military leaders have their regular meetings anything that could affect or involve them will be brought up but probably not in the manner of the Thai military.

Use of the words ' military ' and ' politics ' in the same sentence can, and very often does, take on a sinister meaning and promotes a feeling of foreboding.

[smedly]

"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

and your solution is what Einstien ? - get all opposing people on the streets and have a mass shoot out - it would be a red bloodbath - you are a real brain box

Here's what needs to happen and it's very simple

Government step down

Jail the Thieves and those that have abused Thailand and stolen almost 1 trillion baht

Suspend the Constitution

Reform the Constitution - Political Landscape - the law - the police with input from across all walks of life in Thailand

Hold a Referendum with all the people to approve the reforms

Hold an Election

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

Sounds a lot better than gun attacks - bombs - grenades - murder of innocent people - murder of children and letting a violent red terrorist group run rampant across the country

Now Boppe that in your pipe and smoke it

[bangkokheat]

is that a ninja holding yingluks arm?

[geriatrickid]

"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

and your solution is what Einstien ? - get all opposing people on the streets and have a mass shoot out - it would be a red bloodbath - you are a real brain box

Here's what needs to happen and it's very simple

Government step down

Jail the Thieves and those that have abused Thailand and stolen almost 1 trillion baht

Suspend the Constitution

Reform the Constitution - Political Landscape - the law - the police with input from across all walks of life in Thailand

Hold a Referendum with all the people to approve the reforms

Hold an Election

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

Sounds a lot better than gun attacks - bombs - grenades - murder of innocent people - murder of children and letting a violent red terrorist group run rampant across the country

Now Boppe that in your pipe and smoke it

A suspension of the constitution means that civil rights and some very basic freedoms are suspended. For example, your right to post claptrap on Thai Visa, would be gone, whoosh.

There is no violent "red terrorist group" running rampant. There are however, insurrectionist groups who have been on the loose for quite some time, despite the army being in charge of all security in the areas where they operate. The borders of Thailand are regularly crossed by trafficers of yaba, heroin, timber, endangered animals and human flesh, despite the military being responsible for the security of Thailand's borders. One would think that the Thai military would focus on protecting Thailand's borders and interdicting southern insurgents as job 1.

[geriatrickid]

is that a ninja holding yingluks arm?

There is no one holding the PM's arm. The internationally respected Prime Minister is steadying herself on the arm of an aide as she exits a van.

[binjalin]

"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

Suthep's latest speech at Lumpini was well received and full of metaphor

We shall fight on the Duck Pond, we shall fight on the Running Track, we shall fight in the Tulip Beds and in the Clump of Trees to the Right, we shall fight in the Playground; we shall never surrender our Swings and Roundabouts,

[airconsult]

"The Supreme Commander felt that if the political deadlock was allowed to continue further, more damage would be done to the country, according to the source, who said the number of tourist arrivals had greatly declined".

Appears their main concern is the lack of tourists to feed off.

Being fair to them Chooka - the figures of 2012 were over 53 million just for Suvarnabhumi - a 12% rise over 2011.

For 2013 the figure is down to 50 million - mostly lost over the last 3 months of the year. That's a direct cost of 2.1 Billion THB to AOT (700thb per passenger).

From there though the figure gets a bit murky - but lets say the 3 million missing passengers would have spent 3,000thb per day and only stayed 7 days. (including hotel, so not as large an amount as you think - shortened average stay to 7 days) - that comes to 63 billion THB that has not been brought in and spent.

And that's just the last 3 months of last year - what is it now?

[MGP]

"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

and your solution is what Einstien ? - get all opposing people on the streets and have a mass shoot out - it would be a red bloodbath - you are a real brain box

Here's what needs to happen and it's very simple

Government step down

Jail the Thieves and those that have abused Thailand and stolen almost 1 trillion baht

Suspend the Constitution

Reform the Constitution - Political Landscape - the law - the police with input from across all walks of life in Thailand

Hold a Referendum with all the people to approve the reforms

Hold an Election

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

Sounds a lot better than gun attacks - bombs - grenades - murder of innocent people - murder of children and letting a violent red terrorist group run rampant across the country

Now Boppe that in your pipe and smoke it

You forgot one crucial reform that would solve at least two thirds of the problems with corruption and abuse of power at Thailand's government:

To ban from politics any person that has made a career at the Police.

[tezzainoz]

"Top brass" are meeting and it's headline news in Thailand. They are worried that the political crisis will hurt tourism more. Thais top brass feels that military troops and tanks in the streets will help improve tourism because it will add a level of security to Bangkok.

Don't b silly

It will bring tourist's in by the thousands to take photos they missed getting last time of the Thai people giving flowers to the soldiers

Tanks covered in Flower arrangments

and the new Thai releasve version of the top Song on the Thai hit parade playing on the streets

[rametindallas]

The Supreme Commander felt that if the political deadlock was allowed to continue further, more damage would be done to the country, according to the source, who said the number of tourist arrivals had greatly declined.

This is a lame excuse for action. The Rice Scheme was doing more economic damage to the country than any current loss of tourist income or lost productivity. Where were their concerns then? The military should have zero input into politics and that means for Prayuth et. al. to stop having press conferences and, for sure, no coup d'etat. If the military wants to help, they can keep an eye on the police to ensure the courts and NACC are allowed to function.

[Melyn]

"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

The forces are showing more leadership than this neutered family and their assorted eunuchs.

A Lego parliament would show more leadership

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Thaivisa Connect Thailand mobile app

[whybother]

is that a ninja holding yingluks arm?

There is no one holding the PM's arm. The internationally respected Prime Minister is steadying herself on the arm of an aide as she exits a van.

But it's a ninja aide, isn't it? An internationally respected ninja aide, I might add.

[ABCer]

"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

and your solution is what Einstien ? - get all opposing people on the streets and have a mass shoot out - it would be a red bloodbath - you are a real brain box

Here's what needs to happen and it's very simple

Government step down

Jail the Thieves and those that have abused Thailand and stolen almost 1 trillion baht

Suspend the Constitution

Reform the Constitution - Political Landscape - the law - the police with input from across all walks of life in Thailand

Hold a Referendum with all the people to approve the reforms

Hold an Election

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

Sounds a lot better than gun attacks - bombs - grenades - murder of innocent people - murder of children and letting a violent red terrorist group run rampant across the country

Now Boppe that in your pipe and smoke it

It is a very long process. From Gov't step down through Referendum, Suspension of Constitution, Creation of a New Constitution, finding the culprits, punishing them, Electing a New Gov't - than everything will be rosy&peachy!?

Of course there is always Suthep with his 400 honest men... as an interim solution for all country's woes...

Dear smedly, are you talking about raping a cow in the barn? Even this can leave you with your head bashed in... I hear Suthep is looking for a smart Media Liaison Officer...

[cacruden]

If failing to "prevent corruption" is the test for impeachment then all politicians from all parties should be impeached. The problem with this process is that if they are not consistent across all parties - then they will lose legitimacy. I fully support upholding a high standard, but it should be equally high for all.... and obviously it has not.

[darren84310]

"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

A lot of points made.... what are your thoughts about the more than 400 billion baht of lost funds?.... could it be that the money found its way into the pockets of the people controlling the minds of the rural folk, and if so, how on earth are they supposed to win an election against this this kind of "democratc persuasion."

[Lupatria]

"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

Even though I fully agree with your last paragraph I have one question.

Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?

You mean as much political insight like someone has simply by being a relative of a former PM?

[djjamie]

Military commanders will gather tomorrow to discuss political crisis amid fear of confrontation this weekend

Will yingluck be there in the capacity of caretaker Defence Minister or will she not be there where by mirroring her attendance at the rice committee meetings as the rice committee chairman.

For a woman that is the boss of the defense forces, the boss of the rice committee and the boss of the government she has not really attended defense meetings, she has attended 0% rice committee meetings and 50% parliamentary sittings.

Others in a similar position respect there responsibilities more than yingluck does and rest assured they attend important events that involve them.

An example of another in a similar position is below and it must be noted that the cookie monster has an attendance record of 100% on Sesame Street when responsibilities have drawn a requirement to attend. I actually have more respect for the cookie monster because he has never lied to me either!

Yingluck - She even gives puppets a bad name.

Edited April 1, 2014 by djjamie

[Utley]

"This move by the military was not aimed at pressuring any side in particular, but intended to find a way out for the country, according to the source, who is a senior officer in the armed forces."

As my British friends would say "BULLOCKS"! (IMHO )

[scorecard]

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What should have happened long time ago.

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Enough is enough. This BS slogans about Corruption must be put aside.

The country cannot function without Government.

And the Corruption issue must be resolved through democratic process unlike stupid Suthep slogans.

Reds, Yellows and all other colors must get some education on Democracy - First and Above All - Law and Order.

Don't agree, until there are reforms same same will just continue with bought votes via unfundable / nationally bankrupting populist policies.

Numerous urgent reforms must happen before election.

Or put it another way - would you trust the pt mob to carry out serious meaningful reforms?

[skorchio]

The ankle is a stunt - hapless female wheeled into court in a wheelchair to defend herself ...... PR stunt, images have a far more pronounced effect on the public's eye, and even go to the sub-conscious. For sure it is the Boss's idea.

[rickirs]

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"In a rare move, top military leaders will meet tomorrow to discuss a possible solution for the country at a time of political deadlock and likely confrontation between pro- and anti-government groups this Saturday"

"Top brass to step in"....Coup-monger wishful thinking.

A "rare move"?.....Coup-mongers and their supportive media trying to foment a sense of crisis where there is none. I'm sure these guys meet all the time, and to make another one appear to be something momentous obviously plays to the agenda of those needing urgency. Otherwise they just sit in Lumpini and no-one cares.

Military guys are going to solve a political deadlock?....Really?....Does knowing something about shooting a gun give one political insight?...And what is this about 'deadlock'?.....Coup-mongers not achieving their coup so far does not a deadlock make...the electoral majority is still in place and watching what the minority will try to do, in forcing their way into governance via non-electoral means. They are watching the attempts to nullify their voting choices by those trying to make a coup not appear to be one, by using Independent organizations and judicial elements. To call it a deadlock is an 'illusion of grandeur' by the minority electorate. The next election and having a governing majority in parliament, will quickly dispel any lingering notions of a political deadlock.

And no, the 'wished for' confrontation between pro-democracy and anti-democrats pretending to be 'anti-Govt.' wont happen. Yes, there will be a humongous UDD/Red Shirt rally this Saturday, as a warning shot across the bow of those contemplating a coup, but not in a location where the hoped for confrontation can occur. So the "Brass" and dissapointed Lumpini Park denizens can relax.

BTW, IMHO the only reform discussions occuring in Lumpini Park should focus on one issue, and one alone....How can we adapt ourselves to win an election in the foreseeable future....That is really the only thing the ought to think about. Only when they win an election, can they hope to advance their objectives.

and your solution is what Einstien ? - get all opposing people on the streets and have a mass shoot out - it would be a red bloodbath - you are a real brain box

Here's what needs to happen and it's very simple

Government step down

Jail the Thieves and those that have abused Thailand and stolen almost 1 trillion baht

Suspend the Constitution

Reform the Constitution - Political Landscape - the law - the police with input from across all walks of life in Thailand

Hold a Referendum with all the people to approve the reforms

Hold an Election

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

Sounds a lot better than gun attacks - bombs - grenades - murder of innocent people - murder of children and letting a violent red terrorist group run rampant across the country

Now Boppe that in your pipe and smoke it

Or skip steps one through five and HOLD AN ELECTION.

How is it constitutional to suspend the constitution? What is the authority and by whom is that done? Oh, I forgot. It would be the PDRC's unelected People's Committee run by Suthep that would take over the government, suspend the constitution, stack the interim parliament with PDRC ministers, pass Suthep's reforms, ban the PTP from politics, jail all PTP leaders through kangeroo courts, establish voter qualifications (must either be high income, college degree, or business owner), hold referendums, and then hold elections.