Capture of Sombat was 'accidental'

[billd766]

"Catch me if you can"

His hubris got him caught. Some posters on this forum, who were attributing all sorts of wonderful traits to him, will now know where to send the beers they wanted to buy him. This guy has his photo taken with Ko Tee where both are flashing handguns. He then goes on the run and taunts the NCPO. He is proof that people can be intelligent without being smart. I hope that, during his week in detention, the army can impress on him his responsibility to follow the law.

It's a common Red Shirt attribute that they only follow laws if they like them or when they like them. One may not like a particular law; in this case it is 'martial law', but it is still the law, and those that enforce it have the power. He sets a bad example for others when he openly flaunts the law. People like him are extending the time the military will be in power.

It is not a red-shirt trait, it's a Thai trait.

Can see it every day on the roads.

Can see it in connection with many things related to safety issues.

Was also in evidence with PDRC leaders ignoring court orders.

It was also evident in the PTP former government ignoring court orders too.

[Morch]

"Catch me if you can"

His hubris got him caught. Some posters on this forum, who were attributing all sorts of wonderful traits to him, will now know where to send the beers they wanted to buy him. This guy has his photo taken with Ko Tee where both are flashing handguns. He then goes on the run and taunts the NCPO. He is proof that people can be intelligent without being smart. I hope that, during his week in detention, the army can impress on him his responsibility to follow the law.

It's a common Red Shirt attribute that they only follow laws if they like them or when they like them. One may not like a particular law; in this case it is 'martial law', but it is still the law, and those that enforce it have the power. He sets a bad example for others when he openly flaunts the law. People like him are extending the time the military will be in power.

It is not a red-shirt trait, it's a Thai trait.

Can see it every day on the roads.

Can see it in connection with many things related to safety issues.

Was also in evidence with PDRC leaders ignoring court orders.

It was also evident in the PTP former government ignoring court orders too.

Indeed, thought that was covered in rametindallas's post, but maybe was just equating red-shirts with PTP.

Did not mean it to sound like a tit for tat politic thing, more to point out that this sort of attitude is common in Thailand.

[djjamie]

"Catch me if you can"

His hubris got him caught. Some posters on this forum, who were attributing all sorts of wonderful traits to him, will now know where to send the beers they wanted to buy him. This guy has his photo taken with Ko Tee where both are flashing handguns. He then goes on the run and taunts the NCPO. He is proof that people can be intelligent without being smart. I hope that, during his week in detention, the army can impress on him his responsibility to follow the law.

It's a common Red Shirt attribute that they only follow laws if they like them or when they like them. One may not like a particular law; in this case it is 'martial law', but it is still the law, and those that enforce it have the power. He sets a bad example for others when he openly flaunts the law. People like him are extending the time the military will be in power.

I agree and it is so openly visible that Shin lead governments blatantly disrespect the law and only adhere to it when it suits their agenda that it becomes the norm. Point in case is denouncing the constitution and bypassing it to "get things done" then stating yingluck cannot stand down as it would be unconstitutional. Even the contempt Jatuporn and Nattawaut had for the courts by not turning up to their bail revocation hearing then when the found out bail was upheld they recovered from their sickness instantly. There is a well worn path of red shirts heading to Cambodia and they would have followed that path had their bail been revoked.

Mark my words the people see this and if it is ok for the government and the UDD leaders to act this way then they will follow.

Sombat is only mimicking what he rightfully believes to be the norm. If it is good enough for the PM and his UDD leaders then it is good enough for him.

Thus it becomes a Thai trait and this is why reform is needed. To change this mindset.

I don't think Sombat will be out in a week either. The Junta are now making people accountable for breaking the law.

Let Sombat be an example to Thais that the reform process has started and breaking the law or holding the law in contempt is no longer an option.

Edited June 7, 2014 by djjamie

[bigbamboo]

I thought all RTP arrests were accidental?

[Luger2]

"Catch me if you can"

His hubris got him caught. Some posters on this forum, who were attributing all sorts of wonderful traits to him, will now know where to send the beers they wanted to buy him. This guy has his photo taken with Ko Tee where both are flashing handguns. He then goes on the run and taunts the NCPO. He is proof that people can be intelligent without being smart. I hope that, during his week in detention, the army can impress on him his responsibility to follow the law.

It's a common Red Shirt attribute that they only follow laws if they like them or when they like them. One may not like a particular law; in this case it is 'martial law', but it is still the law, and those that enforce it have the power. He sets a bad example for others when he openly flaunts the law. People like him are extending the time the military will be in power.

I think you are mistaken, it was not him on that photo, also he never advocated violence, no need to make things up.

I stand corrected. My apologies to both you and Sombat.

The person in this photo I saw on the 'Catch me if you can' thread was purported to be Sombat with Ko Tee. http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/728696-catch-me-if-you-can-red-leader/page-5 post #123

KoTee and Sombat.jpg

Just to clarify. In that post of mine, Red Shirt Leader Sombat was identified in the photo directly above the one posted above. He's next to Red Shirt Leader Thida.

Catch me if you can: red leader

Sombat Boonngam-anong is the first person on the list of 114 summoned by the military junta yesterday who has publicly refused to report

It seems the challenge laid down by Red Shirt Leader Sombat (on the right) has been accepted.

Along with the infamous Red Shirt Leader Ko Tee (on the right and transliterated here as Koti):

NCPO to hunt down 'Koti', Sombat

For further clarification, the previously unidentified man in the second photo brandishing a gun next to Red Shirt Leader Ko Tee brandishing a gun is a fourth Red Shirt Leader, Sornlak Malaithong.

Apologies for any misunderstanding the above may have created. There's lots of Red Shirt Leaders and lots of guns.

.

Edited June 7, 2014 by Luger2

[Luger2]

It will do him a lot of good. He started acting like a spoiled brat. Too much junk food. All those McDonalds and KFC meals. Brown rice and hard work will get him back into shape. Send him to work in rice fields. Let him and others contribute to the part of society they claim to represent in a meaningful way.

I am by no means a fan of his, but think he's actually done more meaningful community related work than many other Thai politicians.

Indeed, he has. I worked with his group 14 years ago that was trying to better the lives of hill tribe people in Chiang Rai.

This was before he completely went off the rails, joined the Red Shirts, and has been a clown ever since.

A huge disappointment to so many.

[Emptyset]

I posted this once before and am posting it again. It's Sombat's pre-recorded message to be played in case he got arrested. I'm not persuading anyone to like or dislike him, agree or disagree, just adding something factual to this discussion. You can decide for yourself whether or not these are the rantings of a violent, dangerous criminal.

http://t.co/Ltip3eh4d1

Here's a translation:

'Hello, Thai people who are the true owner of the sovereign power. I'm Sombat Boongam-anong. If you hear this message, it means I have been arrested or my whereabouts is unknown. I have a message to communicate to all of us. First, please believe that sovereignty belongs to us, all Thai people. This means the supreme political power belongs to the people. On this basis, it is your legitimate right to express that the coup d'etat has destroyed the aforementioned principle. This is not just a political issue, but it is an issue of human rights. Because it is the basic right of all people to assert that we are share holders, we are parts of this country, as the collective owners of absolute sovereignty. Even though I was summoned (by the military junta), was issued an arrest warrant, was detained, I want to express that I did not think of myself as a criminal. But I am still aware all the time, that I am one of the holders of sovereignty. This is what I think is right. And I will stand by this principle. Whatever might happen to me, it is not my fault. But when one insists on protecting his own right, he must insist all the way, wherever it may lead. If I would be jailed, harmed, or treated badly in any way, it is not a cost I must pay (translator's note : not the punishment he deserves). It is a political crime on ordinary people who seek freedom and equality in this country. Please continue this historical mission, the development of our democracy, so that it can continuously grow stronger. If I cannot join you for whatever reasons, I wish you, my brothers and sisters, can insist on seeking peaceful and creative ways to restore our democracy that has been destroyed over and over in the past.'

[Torrens54]

Just another smart A

..............................S

..............................S who thinks he has the right to create problems which effect ordinary people and destabilize the wider community/country.

Reports on Television (from outside of Thailand) indicate he was taunting the Military with the line, "Catch Me, If You Can!"

WELL..... that question has now been answered !

Keep him locked up and WITHOUT any funny little, Electronic communication devices.

[Emptyset]

"Catch me if you can"

His hubris got him caught. Some posters on this forum, who were attributing all sorts of wonderful traits to him, will now know where to send the beers they wanted to buy him. This guy has his photo taken with Ko Tee where both are flashing handguns. He then goes on the run and taunts the NCPO. He is proof that people can be intelligent without being smart. I hope that, during his week in detention, the army can impress on him his responsibility to follow the law.

It's a common Red Shirt attribute that they only follow laws if they like them or when they like them. One may not like a particular law; in this case it is 'martial law', but it is still the law, and those that enforce it have the power. He sets a bad example for others when he openly flaunts the law. People like him are extending the time the military will be in power.

As you obviously know so little about him, you should have a look at the profile over on 2bangkok.com (Ron Morris is obviously not a red sympathiser either).

Weren't you supporting the PDRC when they were openly flouting the law, btw? Presumably that was OK because you felt the laws they were flouting were illegitimate or shouldn't be applied to people who you thought were fighting for the right cause. Many would say exactly the same about Sombat. It's nothing to do with "being smart" - and by smart here you seem to mean the instinct for self-preservation - well, was the guy who stood in front of the tank at Tiananmen smart? Were the rag-tag bunch who went up against the red coats (at the time the most powerful army in the world) smart? Was Spartacus smart? Was Nelson Mandela smart?

I'm not comparing those people or situations directly with Sombat, but the logic of what you say implies that you think that they shouldn't have resisted. You believe that any situation, however unjust, should be accepted as long as there are laws that legitimate (from your pov) the oppression. That is the logic of what you've said above.

Edited June 7, 2014 by Emptyset

[khunken]

"Catch me if you can"

His hubris got him caught. Some posters on this forum, who were attributing all sorts of wonderful traits to him, will now know where to send the beers they wanted to buy him. This guy has his photo taken with Ko Tee where both are flashing handguns. He then goes on the run and taunts the NCPO. He is proof that people can be intelligent without being smart. I hope that, during his week in detention, the army can impress on him his responsibility to follow the law.

It's a common Red Shirt attribute that they only follow laws if they like them or when they like them. One may not like a particular law; in this case it is 'martial law', but it is still the law, and those that enforce it have the power. He sets a bad example for others when he openly flaunts the law. People like him are extending the time the military will be in power.

As you obviously know so little about him, you should have a look at the profile over on 2bangkok.com (Ron Morris is obviously not a red sympathiser either).

Weren't you supporting the PDRC when they were openly flouting the law, btw? Presumably that was OK because you felt the laws they were flouting were illegitimate or shouldn't be applied to people who you thought were fighting for the right cause. Many would say exactly the same about Sombat. It's nothing to do with "being smart" - and by smart here you seem to mean the instinct for self-preservation - well, was the guy who stood in front of the tank at Tiananmen smart? Were the rag-tag bunch who went up against the red coats (at the time the most powerful army in the world) smart? Was Spartacus smart? Was Nelson Mandela smart?

I'm not comparing those people or situations directly with Sombat, but the logic of what you say implies that you think that they shouldn't have resisted. You believe that any situation, however unjust, should be accepted as long as there are laws that legitimate (from your pov) the oppression. That is the logic of what you've said above.

First let me say that Sombat is not a hard-line red shirt leader nor, AFAIK is he a Thaksin mercenary like many of them. He is one of the good red shirt leaders.

Second many people supporting the PDRC did (& do) not believe they were breaking the (illegitimate) law. The one instance of actual (legitimate) law breaking was preventing people from voting.

What was totally illegitimate was the action (& lack of action) of CAPO and the police to blame PDRC for every death of police, PDRC protestors & innocent bystanders. The PTP and their lying appointees like CAPO always felt above the law and too often acted that way.

Sombat has been foolish (or brave if you feel that way) but I agree with Amnesty International that he should be freed. It's the like of Ko Tee who should be behind bars - and might have been if the law upholders had attempted to do their job.

[Boxclever]

Just another smart A

..............................S

..............................S who thinks he has the right to create problems which effect ordinary people and destabilize the wider community/country.

Ordinary people? you mean the Bkk elite right? because the vast majority of "ordinary" people support this movement to the hilt!

Power to the people!

[Dogmatix]

From the BBC: His arrest has been denounced by Amnesty International who described it as part of "a systematic and widening crackdown on key human rights" by the military.

"Sombat Boonngamanong should be released immediately unless he is charged with a recognisable criminal offence and remanded by an independent, civilian court," said human rights group's Asia director, Richard Bennett.

In my opinion, the above clearly demonstrates the shallow and understanding and lip service Amnesty International has of situation. Conveniently left out is any mention to the farmers who have been paid and their lives improved. The negative impact of the demonstratioms had on business prior to the coup and the people retrenched. The crackdown on illegal arms and illegal activities in resort destinations.

Wake up Amnesty and the BBC and start seeing this as a good thing with fairer reporting. No more donations from my pocket either.

If it is proven beyond reasonable that certain criminals conspired to steal billions should have been paid to farmers, the NPCO should enact a special law to allow them to be sentenced to death in the same way they caused desperate farmers to die, i.e. short drop hanging from a low tree branch. Amnesty representatives can be invited to kick away the stools and Jonathan Head can get a scoop for the BBC by filming the executions.

Edited June 7, 2014 by Dogmatix

[Emptyset]

"Catch me if you can"

His hubris got him caught. Some posters on this forum, who were attributing all sorts of wonderful traits to him, will now know where to send the beers they wanted to buy him. This guy has his photo taken with Ko Tee where both are flashing handguns. He then goes on the run and taunts the NCPO. He is proof that people can be intelligent without being smart. I hope that, during his week in detention, the army can impress on him his responsibility to follow the law.

It's a common Red Shirt attribute that they only follow laws if they like them or when they like them. One may not like a particular law; in this case it is 'martial law', but it is still the law, and those that enforce it have the power. He sets a bad example for others when he openly flaunts the law. People like him are extending the time the military will be in power.

As you obviously know so little about him, you should have a look at the profile over on 2bangkok.com (Ron Morris is obviously not a red sympathiser either).

Weren't you supporting the PDRC when they were openly flouting the law, btw? Presumably that was OK because you felt the laws they were flouting were illegitimate or shouldn't be applied to people who you thought were fighting for the right cause. Many would say exactly the same about Sombat. It's nothing to do with "being smart" - and by smart here you seem to mean the instinct for self-preservation - well, was the guy who stood in front of the tank at Tiananmen smart? Were the rag-tag bunch who went up against the red coats (at the time the most powerful army in the world) smart? Was Spartacus smart? Was Nelson Mandela smart?

I'm not comparing those people or situations directly with Sombat, but the logic of what you say implies that you think that they shouldn't have resisted. You believe that any situation, however unjust, should be accepted as long as there are laws that legitimate (from your pov) the oppression. That is the logic of what you've said above.

First let me say that Sombat is not a hard-line red shirt leader nor, AFAIK is he a Thaksin mercenary like many of them. He is one of the good red shirt leaders.

Second many people supporting the PDRC did (& do) not believe they were breaking the (illegitimate) law. The one instance of actual (legitimate) law breaking was preventing people from voting.

What was totally illegitimate was the action (& lack of action) of CAPO and the police to blame PDRC for every death of police, PDRC protestors & innocent bystanders. The PTP and their lying appointees like CAPO always felt above the law and too often acted that way.

Sombat has been foolish (or brave if you feel that way) but I agree with Amnesty International that he should be freed. It's the like of Ko Tee who should be behind bars - and might have been if the law upholders had attempted to do their job.

Right, glad we're agreed on the first point at least. To get a sense of why Sombat thought it right to join the right shirt movement, the documentary about the history of Thai democracy, Paradoxocracy, made by Pen-Ek is a good watch (in fact I'm sure anyone interested in Thai history will find it worthwhile).

As for your second point, even blocking a road is against the law. So when they blocked major intersections for months and occupied government buildings, that was against the law. Just as much as it was when the red shirts occupied Rajaprasong in 2010. Violently attacking people who move cones used to mark the illegal occupation is also against the law, as is having a heavily armed militia which has killed three policemen and injured others. Not to mention the four bodies found near protest sides, murders quite possibly the result of actions carried out by PDRC guards. That is still unproven as of yet, but evidence certainly points in that direction.

There's probably more - mostly minor - things I haven't even mentioned. I'm quite surprised you think they only broke the law once. Of course, you're right about CAPO though. I don't think their lack of even-handedness (which is not untypical of any Thai government, has to be said, see CRES in 2010, for example) or the terrorism attacks carried out by militant red shirts helped their cause much, quite the opposite. It just added more fuel to the fire and were signs of desperation.

Of course, whatever people say, the two things had very little to do with the government's overthrow, but they do serve to justify it in some people's minds. Certainly few would argue it isn't a good thing that the terrorists have been caught, and I hope harsh punishment is meted out. But you could also argue that if the military had deployed as much force in protecting the Feb election, things wouldn't have gone as far as they did.

Anyway, back to Sombat, I have to say if he'd acted in any way other than he did in response to the coup, I might well have thought he wasn't the person I thought he was. Unfortunately, it's likely to be those who stand on principles who suffer most, not those who deserve it (e.g. PT politicians who were ready to sacrifice their government for purposes of corruption, not for principle)... we shall see what happens in the corruption cases, but if any are found guilty, they're likely to simply leave the country rather than suffer the same imprisonment Sombat is likely to face for doing what he believes to be right.

[Emptyset]

From the BBC: His arrest has been denounced by Amnesty International who described it as part of "a systematic and widening crackdown on key human rights" by the military.

"Sombat Boonngamanong should be released immediately unless he is charged with a recognisable criminal offence and remanded by an independent, civilian court," said human rights group's Asia director, Richard Bennett.

In my opinion, the above clearly demonstrates the shallow and understanding and lip service Amnesty International has of situation. Conveniently left out is any mention to the farmers who have been paid and their lives improved. The negative impact of the demonstratioms had on business prior to the coup and the people retrenched. The crackdown on illegal arms and illegal activities in resort destinations.

Wake up Amnesty and the BBC and start seeing this as a good thing with fairer reporting. No more donations from my pocket either.

If it is proven beyond reasonable that certain criminals conspired to steal billions should have been paid to farmers, the NPCO should enact a special law to allow them to be sentenced to death in the same way they caused desperate farmers to die, i.e. short drop hanging from a low tree branch. Amnesty representatives can be invited to kick away the stools and Jonathan Head can get a scoop for the BBC by filming the executions.

Maybe. But if the constitution can be thrown out entirely and that's all well and good, why couldn't laws be interpreted slightly differently back in Jan in order for the govt to be able to pay the farmers and prevent the suicides? Whichever means the govt tried to use to get the money, the PDRC and its allies blocked them at every turn. Threats, promises of bank runs and the blockade of rice auctions all played a part. It was of course entirely self-serving and cynical. So to see them getting sanctimonious over it now when they played a large part in the farmers not getting paid is pretty shameless, though not surprising.

PT's corruption and incompetence should is to be condemned, but the actions of the PDRC in engendering the payment crisis presumably hasn't gone unnoticed by many farmers either (at least if the recent FT report from the NE is anything to go by).

I'm not sure what Ian Noone is blathering about either. Amnesty's focus is on human rights, and they have a particular interest in political prisoners. They're not - and shouldn't be - in the business of cheerleading any particular government, not an unelected one. Their role is to point out abuses. That is what they have done. They condemned the terrorist attacks and asked for proper investigation. Now they're condemning the detention of a man who protested a coup. As you'd expect. For someone to stop donating them because they haven't issued any press releases in praise of a junta that just staged a coup seems quite ridiculous. Some people really are off with the fairies...

[khunken]

"Catch me if you can"

His hubris got him caught. Some posters on this forum, who were attributing all sorts of wonderful traits to him, will now know where to send the beers they wanted to buy him. This guy has his photo taken with Ko Tee where both are flashing handguns. He then goes on the run and taunts the NCPO. He is proof that people can be intelligent without being smart. I hope that, during his week in detention, the army can impress on him his responsibility to follow the law.

It's a common Red Shirt attribute that they only follow laws if they like them or when they like them. One may not like a particular law; in this case it is 'martial law', but it is still the law, and those that enforce it have the power. He sets a bad example for others when he openly flaunts the law. People like him are extending the time the military will be in power.

As you obviously know so little about him, you should have a look at the profile over on 2bangkok.com (Ron Morris is obviously not a red sympathiser either).

Weren't you supporting the PDRC when they were openly flouting the law, btw? Presumably that was OK because you felt the laws they were flouting were illegitimate or shouldn't be applied to people who you thought were fighting for the right cause. Many would say exactly the same about Sombat. It's nothing to do with "being smart" - and by smart here you seem to mean the instinct for self-preservation - well, was the guy who stood in front of the tank at Tiananmen smart? Were the rag-tag bunch who went up against the red coats (at the time the most powerful army in the world) smart? Was Spartacus smart? Was Nelson Mandela smart?

I'm not comparing those people or situations directly with Sombat, but the logic of what you say implies that you think that they shouldn't have resisted. You believe that any situation, however unjust, should be accepted as long as there are laws that legitimate (from your pov) the oppression. That is the logic of what you've said above.

First let me say that Sombat is not a hard-line red shirt leader nor, AFAIK is he a Thaksin mercenary like many of them. He is one of the good red shirt leaders.

Second many people supporting the PDRC did (& do) not believe they were breaking the (illegitimate) law. The one instance of actual (legitimate) law breaking was preventing people from voting.

What was totally illegitimate was the action (& lack of action) of CAPO and the police to blame PDRC for every death of police, PDRC protestors & innocent bystanders. The PTP and their lying appointees like CAPO always felt above the law and too often acted that way.

Sombat has been foolish (or brave if you feel that way) but I agree with Amnesty International that he should be freed. It's the like of Ko Tee who should be behind bars - and might have been if the law upholders had attempted to do their job.

Right, glad we're agreed on the first point at least. To get a sense of why Sombat thought it right to join the right shirt movement, the documentary about the history of Thai democracy, Paradoxocracy, made by Pen-Ek is a good watch (in fact I'm sure anyone interested in Thai history will find it worthwhile).

As for your second point, even blocking a road is against the law. So when they blocked major intersections for months and occupied government buildings, that was against the law. Just as much as it was when the red shirts occupied Rajaprasong in 2010. Violently attacking people who move cones used to mark the illegal occupation is also against the law, as is having a heavily armed militia which has killed three policemen and injured others. Not to mention the four bodies found near protest sides, murders quite possibly the result of actions carried out by PDRC guards. That is still unproven as of yet, but evidence certainly points in that direction.

There's probably more - mostly minor - things I haven't even mentioned. I'm quite surprised you think they only broke the law once. Of course, you're right about CAPO though. I don't think their lack of even-handedness (which is not untypical of any Thai government, has to be said, see CRES in 2010, for example) or the terrorism attacks carried out by militant red shirts helped their cause much, quite the opposite. It just added more fuel to the fire and were signs of desperation.

Of course, whatever people say, the two things had very little to do with the government's overthrow, but they do serve to justify it in some people's minds. Certainly few would argue it isn't a good thing that the terrorists have been caught, and I hope harsh punishment is meted out. But you could also argue that if the military had deployed as much force in protecting the Feb election, things wouldn't have gone as far as they did.

Anyway, back to Sombat, I have to say if he'd acted in any way other than he did in response to the coup, I might well have thought he wasn't the person I thought he was. Unfortunately, it's likely to be those who stand on principles who suffer most, not those who deserve it (e.g. PT politicians who were ready to sacrifice their government for purposes of corruption, not for principle)... we shall see what happens in the corruption cases, but if any are found guilty, they're likely to simply leave the country rather than suffer the same imprisonment Sombat is likely to face for doing what he believes to be right.

Agree with your last paragraph.

Yes, you are right about the shooting of the army officer and possibly right about blocking roads although I feel that that is a grey area.

It is a pity however that you categorically state that they killed 3 policemen as this has not been proven. CAPO and the police said they did but as their credibility is virtually zero, it takes a biased mind to accept it.

Also, they did not form a militia. They armed some of the guards to try and protect themselves from the opposition militias and '3rd hands'. Check the definition of a militia.

The excuse that the military might have saved the February 'election' is only biased guesswork. That's the police's job and CAPO were supposed to keep the peace. They didn't even do it in Bangkok as they seemed more intent in accurately forecasting attacks on the protestors.

I'm not trying to portray the PDRC as total innocents but they were in most cases the victims of deadly attacks which the CAPO mob tried to make out as self inflicted. I'm glad that all groups are off the streets and violence has very much abated.

[AleG]

I posted this once before and am posting it again. It's Sombat's pre-recorded message to be played in case he got arrested. I'm not persuading anyone to like or dislike him, agree or disagree, just adding something factual to this discussion. You can decide for yourself whether or not these are the rantings of a violent, dangerous criminal.

http://t.co/Ltip3eh4d1

Here's a translation:

'Hello, Thai people who are the true owner of the sovereign power. I'm Sombat Boongam-anong. If you hear this message, it means I have been arrested or my whereabouts is unknown. I have a message to communicate to all of us. First, please believe that sovereignty belongs to us, all Thai people. This means the supreme political power belongs to the people. On this basis, it is your legitimate right to express that the coup d'etat has destroyed the aforementioned principle. This is not just a political issue, but it is an issue of human rights. Because it is the basic right of all people to assert that we are share holders, we are parts of this country, as the collective owners of absolute sovereignty. Even though I was summoned (by the military junta), was issued an arrest warrant, was detained, I want to express that I did not think of myself as a criminal. But I am still aware all the time, that I am one of the holders of sovereignty. This is what I think is right. And I will stand by this principle. Whatever might happen to me, it is not my fault. But when one insists on protecting his own right, he must insist all the way, wherever it may lead. If I would be jailed, harmed, or treated badly in any way, it is not a cost I must pay (translator's note : not the punishment he deserves). It is a political crime on ordinary people who seek freedom and equality in this country. Please continue this historical mission, the development of our democracy, so that it can continuously grow stronger. If I cannot join you for whatever reasons, I wish you, my brothers and sisters, can insist on seeking peaceful and creative ways to restore our democracy that has been destroyed over and over in the past.'

That's all very nice, but too bad he choosed to hitch his cart to a movement aimed at subverting Democracy for the benefit of an autocratic clan.

[Thailand]

Big Brother know to much

Let this be a lesson to TV Red shirt sympathisers... "traced through their IP Addresses"

Why is your comment limited to red shirts?

And surely the lesson should be " use proxy servers"?

And I am quite sure that if the powers that be wanted information on TV members it would be provided on request. Not likely to say no are they?

Edited June 7, 2014 by Thailand

[facthailand]

I am proud to call Sombat a friend. Despite our difference of views over his support for redshirts and mass movements, he is one of the few steadfast, focussed, creative nonviolent activists Thailand has to better the future for everyone. Sombat's life of selfless service with the Mirror Foundation and after speaks for itself.

Naturally, the generals lock up those who speak out and remain unbowed to their threats, especially those who do good instead of yelling or whistling.

I'm sure Sombat's military trial, with no defence counsel permitted and no right of appeal, will be one of the first on the coup's broader agenda to create a further climate of fear and acquiescence. Any opponents are playing in the coup's own version of The Hunger Games.

If Sombat gets a harsh sentence or is further spuriously charged with LM, Thailand is well along the road to being the new Burma.

[rametindallas]

I think you are mistaken, it was not him on that photo, also he never advocated violence, no need to make things up.

I stand corrected. My apologies to both you and Sombat.

The person in this photo I saw on the 'Catch me if you can' thread was purported to be Sombat with Ko Tee. http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/728696-catch-me-if-you-can-red-leader/page-5 post #123

KoTee and Sombat.jpg

Just to clarify. In that post of mine, Red Shirt Leader Sombat was identified in the photo directly above the one posted above. He's next to Red Shirt Leader Thida.

Catch me if you can: red leader

Sombat Boonngam-anong is the first person on the list of 114 summoned by the military junta yesterday who has publicly refused to report

It seems the challenge laid down by Red Shirt Leader Sombat (on the right) has been accepted.

Along with the infamous Red Shirt Leader Ko Tee (on the right and transliterated here as Koti):

NCPO to hunt down 'Koti', Sombat

For further clarification, the previously unidentified man in the second photo brandishing a gun next to Red Shirt Leader Ko Tee brandishing a gun is a fourth Red Shirt Leader, Sornlak Malaithong.

Apologies for any misunderstanding the above may have created. There's lots of Red Shirt Leaders and lots of guns.

.

Thanks for that. I should be more careful reading captions and 'assuming', though. My apologies to all.

[rametindallas]

"Catch me if you can"

His hubris got him caught. Some posters on this forum, who were attributing all sorts of wonderful traits to him, will now know where to send the beers they wanted to buy him. This guy has his photo taken with Ko Tee where both are flashing handguns. He then goes on the run and taunts the NCPO. He is proof that people can be intelligent without being smart. I hope that, during his week in detention, the army can impress on him his responsibility to follow the law.

It's a common Red Shirt attribute that they only follow laws if they like them or when they like them. One may not like a particular law; in this case it is 'martial law', but it is still the law, and those that enforce it have the power. He sets a bad example for others when he openly flaunts the law. People like him are extending the time the military will be in power.

As you obviously know so little about him, you should have a look at the profile over on 2bangkok.com (Ron Morris is obviously not a red sympathiser either).

Weren't you supporting the PDRC when they were openly flouting the law, btw? Presumably that was OK because you felt the laws they were flouting were illegitimate or shouldn't be applied to people who you thought were fighting for the right cause. Many would say exactly the same about Sombat. It's nothing to do with "being smart" - and by smart here you seem to mean the instinct for self-preservation - well, was the guy who stood in front of the tank at Tiananmen smart? Were the rag-tag bunch who went up against the red coats (at the time the most powerful army in the world) smart? Was Spartacus smart? Was Nelson Mandela smart?

I'm not comparing those people or situations directly with Sombat, but the logic of what you say implies that you think that they shouldn't have resisted. You believe that any situation, however unjust, should be accepted as long as there are laws that legitimate (from your pov) the oppression. That is the logic of what you've said above.

You are quite correct that my limited knowledge of Mr. Sombat comes from news articles in the 'Nation' newspaper. You are wrong that I have ever supported illegal behavior by PDRC. I have defended their right to gather and protest as the courts have ruled thusly.

Of the 'freedom fighters' you have compared/not compared to Mr. Sombat, only Mr. Mandela is remote comparable (Mandela is the very rare terrorist turned statesman).

Adding American colonist is not pertinent as the British army was intending to hold power forever (not so the NCPO) and the NCPO will be returning power to a civilian government as soon as the likes of Mr. Sombat calm down and join the discussion.

Mr. Spartacus was an abused slave/gladiator and nearly all of Spartacus' 70,000 unorganized, untrained, followers were killed for no benefit and is a perfect example of impetuosity. Mr. Sombat, on the other hand had privilege as an academic and threw it away to join a group that was created and funded by a vindictive, fugitive, felon, ex PM.

Mr. Mandella was not invited to join the discussion. Mr. Sombat was. Comparing Mr. Sombat with Mr. Mandela is as ridiculous as Dr. Thaksin comparing himself with Aung San Sui Kyi a few years ago. Where are the twenty years of incarceration/sacrifice? Neither Mr. Mandela nor The Lady acted so foolishly/unstatesmanlike as to publicly taunt the powers-that-be, as far as I know.

Mr. Sombat's defiance is merely delaying the day that Thai people can go to the polls and elect a new civilian government. I don't see Mr. Sombat as a 'freedom fighter' but as a grand-standing, trouble-maker trying to glorify himself to the Isaan people and the UDD; an 'Instant Hero'. I think we'll have to disagree on Mr. Sombat's motives and behavior.

[FangFerang]

It is a very risky business making silenced martyrs -- especially ones who preach non-violence.

This is not wise, or even intelligent.

Yay! The power players got one! One of thousands.....and thereby gave birth to more children in the process.

The old days are gone.

Live with it...it isn't better -- it's just the way it is.

[ATF]

The Police should have more of these "accidents". The revolver in the pic is not allowed for civilian possession in Thailand. It's either a .357 or .44 magnum.

[Now or Never]

Apparently Chonburi is being used as an escape destination for Bangkok Reds.

The history of Chonburi is quite colorful ( to say the least) and I'm sure we will see more action in this area.

[Morch]

From the BBC: His arrest has been denounced by Amnesty International who described it as part of "a systematic and widening crackdown on key human rights" by the military.

"Sombat Boonngamanong should be released immediately unless he is charged with a recognisable criminal offence and remanded by an independent, civilian court," said human rights group's Asia director, Richard Bennett.

In my opinion, the above clearly demonstrates the shallow and understanding and lip service Amnesty International has of situation. Conveniently left out is any mention to the farmers who have been paid and their lives improved. The negative impact of the demonstratioms had on business prior to the coup and the people retrenched. The crackdown on illegal arms and illegal activities in resort destinations.

Wake up Amnesty and the BBC and start seeing this as a good thing with fairer reporting. No more donations from my pocket either.

If it is proven beyond reasonable that certain criminals conspired to steal billions should have been paid to farmers, the NPCO should enact a special law to allow them to be sentenced to death in the same way they caused desperate farmers to die, i.e. short drop hanging from a low tree branch. Amnesty representatives can be invited to kick away the stools and Jonathan Head can get a scoop for the BBC by filming the executions.

Maybe. But if the constitution can be thrown out entirely and that's all well and good, why couldn't laws be interpreted slightly differently back in Jan in order for the govt to be able to pay the farmers and prevent the suicides? Whichever means the govt tried to use to get the money, the PDRC and its allies blocked them at every turn. Threats, promises of bank runs and the blockade of rice auctions all played a part. It was of course entirely self-serving and cynical. So to see them getting sanctimonious over it now when they played a large part in the farmers not getting paid is pretty shameless, though not surprising.

PT's corruption and incompetence should is to be condemned, but the actions of the PDRC in engendering the payment crisis presumably hasn't gone unnoticed by many farmers either (at least if the recent FT report from the NE is anything to go by).

I'm not sure what Ian Noone is blathering about either. Amnesty's focus is on human rights, and they have a particular interest in political prisoners. They're not - and shouldn't be - in the business of cheerleading any particular government, not an unelected one. Their role is to point out abuses. That is what they have done. They condemned the terrorist attacks and asked for proper investigation. Now they're condemning the detention of a man who protested a coup. As you'd expect. For someone to stop donating them because they haven't issued any press releases in praise of a junta that just staged a coup seems quite ridiculous. Some people really are off with the fairies...

The government should have made provisions for paying the farmers before stepping down. Regardless, delays in payments occurred prior to this. What the government did try to do was use more funds without transparency or controls. Rather lucky banks didn't go along with that.

I do not believe you can chalk this one up to the PDRC.

[Morch]

I am proud to call Sombat a friend. Despite our difference of views over his support for redshirts and mass movements, he is one of the few steadfast, focussed, creative nonviolent activists Thailand has to better the future for everyone. Sombat's life of selfless service with the Mirror Foundation and after speaks for itself.

Naturally, the generals lock up those who speak out and remain unbowed to their threats, especially those who do good instead of yelling or whistling.

I'm sure Sombat's military trial, with no defence counsel permitted and no right of appeal, will be one of the first on the coup's broader agenda to create a further climate of fear and acquiescence. Any opponents are playing in the coup's own version of The Hunger Games.

If Sombat gets a harsh sentence or is further spuriously charged with LM, Thailand is well along the road to being the new Burma.

You might be sure of the trial's outcome, but so far they haven't shown signs of extreme heavy handedness, even with

people who publicly defied them (like Chaturon). So far it seems they have prepared themselves quite well to deal with

public opinion, learned a few lessons from the last round, no doubt.

The climate o fear and acquiescence you allude to does not exist nationwide, at least as far as I can see and from what I hear.

Guess this would depend on political views and location.

Is Sombat facing LM charges? Thought he was initially wanted as one of the red-shirt leaders, then an extra for refusing to

show up.

[englishoak]

From the BBC: His arrest has been denounced by Amnesty International who described it as part of "a systematic and widening crackdown on key human rights" by the military.

"Sombat Boonngamanong should be released immediately unless he is charged with a recognisable criminal offence and remanded by an independent, civilian court," said human rights group's Asia director, Richard Bennett.

In my opinion, the above clearly demonstrates the shallow and understanding and lip service Amnesty International has of situation. Conveniently left out is any mention to the farmers who have been paid and their lives improved. The negative impact of the demonstratioms had on business prior to the coup and the people retrenched. The crackdown on illegal arms and illegal activities in resort destinations.

Wake up Amnesty and the BBC and start seeing this as a good thing with fairer reporting. No more donations from my pocket either.

You clearly dont understand the role and mission statement of Amnesty international,

Amnesty International’s vision is of a world in which every person enjoys all of the human rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international human rights instruments. In pursuit of this vision, Amnesty International’s mission is to undertake research and action focused on preventing and ending grave abuses of these rights.

they are not political and are concerned only with human rights and the violation of, period. Either you believe in that principle or you dont, you cant cherry pick when or where or who it applies to and A I does not.

Edited June 7, 2014 by englishoak