Prayut must raise his sights

[webfact]

EDITORIAL
Prayut must raise his sights
The Nation

The PM should have thanked Channel 3 for exposing the plight of Thai fishermen jailed abroad; instead, he again resorted to 'shooting the messenger'

BANGKOK: -- Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha was incensed over a recent investigative report by a respected journalist on the fate of Thai fishermen on Indonesia's Benjina Island. Channel 3's "Three Dimension News" programme found that some 400-500 Thai fishermen were languishing in jail there. Some had died behind bars.

Many of the prisoners are undocumented migrants caught working on fishing trawlers in Indonesian waters. Abandoned by their governments or prevented from returning to their homeland by legal red tape, many have passed away and been buried on the island.

In journalistic terms, this is a strong story with a "human face", and Channel 3 reporter Thapanee Ietsrichai should be commended for her courageous work.

But the prime minister thinks differently. Upset with reporters' questions at Government House about what his government has been doing to tackle this issue, Prayut decided to turn the tables and shift the focus to the journalist behind the story.

Instead of praising her work and perhaps giving assurances that his government was doing something to alleviate the plight of the fishermen, Prayut asked whether the reporter would take responsibility if foreign buyers decided to boycott Thailand's fishing industry, which generates about Bt200 billion annually.

He told reporters that his government had helped 26 people stranded on the island and argued that previous administrations had ignored the problem.

He said that global positioning systems (GPS) are being installed on all Thai trawlers so that authorities can monitor their movements. The move is meant to combat illegal fishing, a longstanding problem in this region that accounts for many of the Thai nationals currently languishing in foreign jails.

But the prime minister also urged the Channel 3 team to tone down their coverage of this issue, which reflects an outdated and autocratic mindset.

Prayut needs to be reminded that the reporter was just doing her job. By exposing irregularities, she and her team made it more likely that something will be done to help the Thai workers caught in this legal limbo.

For too long Thai policymakers have turned a blind eye to humanitarian issues, thinking they would somehow go away and that everything would be fine. When they are finally confronted with such injustices, they lose their cool.

Besides accusing the journalist of being irresponsible for overlooking the possible knock-on effect her report could have on the Thai fishing industry, Prayut had the gall to ask what she would say if he admitted he was unable to resolve this issue.

No one was sure whether he had a point to make, or was just mumbling away because he didn't know what else to say.

But, as the old saying goes, if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.

Channel 3 was doing its job. It's time that the government did likewise. Huffing and puffing about important issues helps no one.

What it does do is invite embarrassment among members of the world community, who witness a national leader getting upset and floundering over a news report that not only revealed the authorities' shortcomings but also exposed a humanitarian issue that needs to be addressed.

People close to the premier should have the courage to inform him that, if anything, his reaction was damaging to the country's international standing.

Prayut was correct to say that journalists must be held responsible for their reports. But there was nothing to suggest that the report violated either journalistic ethics or the editorial policy of Channel 3.

If the prime minister is so concerned about the Thai fishing industry then he should do whatever he can to ensure that it operates properly and in line with the law.

It is absurd to blame the messenger when the real problem lies with the industry itself and the authorities who oversee it. Both have failed to look after Thai fishermen, upon whose slave-like labour one of the country's most lucrative industries rests.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/opinion/Prayut-must-raise-his-sights-30256863.html


-- The Nation 2015-03-27

[Mango Bob]

Once again the self appointed one has opened his mouth and inserted his foot.

[jaidam]

Such amusing phrasing! The title implies that Prayuth has at some stage of his life held a rifle and focused on a target. I suggest if you presented the good general with a firearm he would look as perplexed as if you gave a donkey an abacus. Here, the army has nothing to do with defense, rather it is an elite club that focuses on wealth creation.

[NongKhaiKid]

Hard to raise your sights when you can't see further than the end of your own nose.

[chooka]

Once again the self appointed one has opened his mouth and inserted his foot.

He had the perfect opportunity to seize the moment and use it to Thailand's advantage. He could have congratulated the media for uncovering this incident and publically encourage others to join the fight in uncovering human trafficking. His P.R people had a gift and could have spun this on the international stage with the applause of the world. What approach does he take? He threatens to execute those that tried to make a difference. Prayuth simply proved that he doesn't give a damn about human trafficking. He will throw an enormous hissy fit if Thailand isn't upgraded on the next TIP report but he has no one to blame but himself, he had the perfect opportunity here and he killed it.

[Robby nz]

Diplomacy for sure isn't one of his strong points and while he was wrong in having a go at the reporter it should be pointed out that this isn't a new thing and in their short time in office they have actually done something about it.

Whether this is because of the international attention that has been drawn to the slavery situation or not is a moot point but the fact remains that something has and is still being done.

It should also be recognized that this is not a solely Thai problem and there are fishermen (slaves) from many countries in the same situation and it should be asked if those other countries are being pushed to do something about their people as well.

Or is it only Thailand that is being threatened with sanctions while others are ignored ?

[greenchair]

[aussieinthailand]

Diplomacy for sure isn't one of his strong points and while he was wrong in having a go at the reporter it should be pointed out that this isn't a new thing and in their short time in office they have actually done something about it.

Whether this is because of the international attention that has been drawn to the slavery situation or not is a moot point but the fact remains that something has and is still being done.

It should also be recognized that this is not a solely Thai problem and there are fishermen (slaves) from many countries in the same situation and it should be asked if those other countries are being pushed to do something about their people as well.

Or is it only Thailand that is being threatened with sanctions while others are ignored ?

They were handed the ball and should have run with it, if they did they would have been looked at internationally in a much better light than they are now.

But instead spat the dummy and cried foul at the person that gave them the ball and wants them or( invites) them to have tea and crumpets while adjusting their attitudes.

As for doing something about the TIP, well some people think its like pissing on an inferno instead of having a real crack at ending this barbaric situation.

The ball is in your hands, it's up to you to do with it as you wish and don't piss and moan and blame others if you drop it.

[BSJ]

Oh General General General......Mr PM I can help you. I have a book that my father gave me, about 4 decades ago, that truly was a good read....and helpful too!

PM me your post address and I will send it today.

[steve187]

Such amusing phrasing! The title implies that Prayuth has at some stage of his life held a rifle and focused on a target. I suggest if you presented the good general with a firearm he would look as perplexed as if you gave a donkey an abacus. Here, the army has nothing to do with defense, rather it is an elite club that focuses on wealth creation.

strange how maybe a persons home country and upbringing, sets the impression in your mind on reading headings, i looked at the heading and straight away thought had he needs to improve his game, up the anti so to speak, and he does, he needs to jump in a Delorean and join the 21st century, and on the journey remove his foot.

[deckape]

My first boss had a great saying "never pass up an opportunity ti keep your mouth shut"

Wouldn't go over well here. I listen to Thai people talk and I honestly believe most absolutely love the sound of their own voices..so musical! So funny!

[Lupatria]

Am I the only one missing the word "execution" in this editorial? Or was this written under the promise we don't comment on jokes made by the PM?

[soalbundy]

should raise his sights Was the pun intended

[NeilSA1]

Am I the only one missing the word "execution" in this editorial? Or was this written under the promise we don't comment on jokes made by the PM?

The editorial does not refer to the word 'execution'. IMO this is a normal occurrence common to a few members who seem to love to embellishment and improvise their comments, regardless of the truth.

[NeilSA1]

should raise his sights Was the pun intended

I hope so, other wise I have to change my mind because I though that the headline was clever.

[yellowboat]

Now he looks as though he is putting the fishing industry before humanity and the law. Will never eat Thai sea food again

[Srikcir]

Diplomacy for sure isn't one of his strong points and while he was wrong in having a go at the reporter it should be pointed out that this isn't a new thing and in their short time in office they have actually done something about it.

Whether this is because of the international attention that has been drawn to the slavery situation or not is a moot point but the fact remains that something has and is still being done.

It should also be recognized that this is not a solely Thai problem and there are fishermen (slaves) from many countries in the same situation and it should be asked if those other countries are being pushed to do something about their people as well.

Or is it only Thailand that is being threatened with sanctions while others are ignored ?

The U.S. has singled out Thailand, Malaysia, The Gambia and Venezuela for taking insufficient action against human trafficking. Other Tier 3 countries are Algeria; Central African Republic; Cuba; Democratic Republic of Congo; Equatorial Guinea; Eritrea; Guinea-Bissau; Iran; Kuwait; Libya; Mauritania; North Korea; Papua New Guinea; Russia; Saudi Arabia; Syria; Uzbekistan; Yemen; and Zimbabwe.

A Tier 3 status can also mean less money as the U.S. may use the designation to withhold or withdraw assistance that is unrelated to trade or humanitarian aid. Those countries could also face U.S. opposition in obtaining development aid from international financial institutions like the World Bank or International Monetary Fund.

[Benmart]

Diplomacy for sure isn't one of his strong points and while he was wrong in having a go at the reporter it should be pointed out that this isn't a new thing and in their short time in office they have actually done something about it.

Whether this is because of the international attention that has been drawn to the slavery situation or not is a moot point but the fact remains that something has and is still being done.

It should also be recognized that this is not a solely Thai problem and there are fishermen (slaves) from many countries in the same situation and it should be asked if those other countries are being pushed to do something about their people as well.

Or is it only Thailand that is being threatened with sanctions while others are ignored ?

A good read on various sanctions imposed by the United States Government.

http://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/Programs/Pages/Programs.aspx

[baboon]

Very half hearted responses from the junta fanbois so far. Come on, you can do better! Surly this incident is a triumph for the government?

[Kaalle]

Hard to raise your sights when you can't see further than the end of your own nose.

This can be said about many of the people he is ruling over, Thais that is. I say this with the risk of sound rude but pose the question to a random Thai: If a reporter unveils a certain injustice, Thailand might loose 200 billion in revenue, do you think the government should try to stop or at least discourage it?

I think many would agree with Prayuth and in their narrow perspective they would automatically assume doing something that causes a loss for Thailand short term is "velly bad".

[sawadee1947]

very brave article.. We will see what will happen to Channel 3 jounalist and also the author of this article. What happens to this country the general might ask himself. Is there still any opposition here? Anybody left who is against me?

Well I suppose opposition is growing even not so loud and violating as before. Some saying there might be always Thaksin at the table... Are they right?

[Shiver]

Politicians can play a role, but the fish have to be really committed.

[Robby nz]

In todays news :

Foreign Affairs Ministry to greet freed fishermen

BANGKOK, 27 March 2015 (NNT) – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and related agencies will be holding a welcome home activity at Donmueang International Airport for Thai fishermen who have just been released from Ambon Island in Indonesia.

The 21 freed fishermen are scheduled to arrive in the country at 8.15 p.m. today on Air Asia flight QZ252. The rescue of Thai people lured into becoming labors overseas is one of the main missions the Thai government has tasked the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with.

Since October 2014, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has secured the release of 146 Thai workers from Indonesia, 70 of whom were fishermen stranded on Ambon Island.

The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is in charge of assisting those workers

[2fishin2]

And hes on TV again for a "special" presentation I think 30 minutes longer than normal....wonder who he will threaten this time. Ever notice that the word threaten is used allot in response to his actions towards the Thai people? Like I said today, this is strike #3 for the junta gorilla this week. First rain storm of the year and BKK floods massively with the mayor telling people to move to the countryside and basically blaming the Thai people of his mismanagement of infrastructure, 2nd is the discovery and repatriation of the Thai fishing slaves from Indonesia, and then today both Japan and South Korea forbidding any new airlines, routes or airplanes into their airspace because of his government's lack of safety protocols and procedures. And let's go ahead and add on the attacks in the south this week too since I'm piling on . He's not doing too good and everything is starting to unravel. See what happens? Only time will tell....

[BestBitterPhuket]

Disappointing behavior.