'Playing dead' isn't playing it right

[Lite Beer]

EDITORIAL
'Playing dead' isn't playing it right
The Nation

BANGKOK: -- Confident that his party can make a triumphant comeback, Thaksin's latest strategic advice is more worrying than promising

Self-exiled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, facing criminal prosecution should he return, is reported to have told key red-shirt leaders recently to "play dead", in other words "lie low", until his party returns to power in the next election. He offered no acknowledgement whatsoever that he is at least partly to blame for Thailand's trouble, only that he is waiting to strike back. It is the strategy of the vengeful, of someone feeling hard done by.

The Thai political crisis, however, has gone far beyond the question of whether Thaksin is a mistreated hero or a destructive villain, so at this stage his attitude isn't the least bit helpful.

Thaksin advising his lieutenants to "play dead" means that Thailand's vicious cycle is sure to continue, plots followed by counterplots. He is convinced - perhaps rightly - that his party can again take the reins of state power, but, if so, that will by no means be the end of it. If he believes his return to power would resolve the political strife once and for all, he's almost certainly wrong.

A simple analysis justifies the "play dead" advice. The interim government is not repeating the mistake of the 2006 coup leaders, who allowed a pro-Thaksin party to swiftly return to power. Leaders of the pro-Thaksin movement have instead been put under strict surveillance. Ex-premier Yingluck Shinawatra, Thaksin's sister, is facing jail over the rice-pledging scheme. Other pro-Thaksin politicians have either been legally threatened or sent fleeing. The Krung Thai Bank loan scandal poses a legal threat to Thaksin's son.

But there's a big difference between "playing dead" and "playing it right". The Shinawatras are tainted, and the more Thaksin attempts to attach his family name to "democracy", the more difficult it will be for Thailand to become a true democracy. Everyone wants to get back to democratic rule, but the mere mention of his name makes too many people cringe.

Political morality has been twisted beyond recognition, but the clear reality is that Thaksin and the military have become the chicken and the egg, not in terms of who should be blamed first, but in the sense that one can't disappear without the other doing the same. Simply put, if Thaksin stays politically active, so will the military.

Thaksin is not Aung San Suu Kyi, who endured detention and suffered alongside her people. He is not Nelson Mandela, who fought for a pure ideology.

Thaksin's activism doesn't seem to have been motivated by patriotism. A lot of Thailand's troubles stem from his controversial wealth - the vested interests, the family's still-lavish lifestyle. It's too late to debate what was just or unjust regarding the seizure of his assets. It's never too late, however, for Thaksin to take a long, hard look at himself.

His supporters are proclaiming that he's become a symbol. Whoever is defending this imperfect man, they say, is fighting for political rights. The irony is that, the more such claims are made, the harder it becomes for true political rights to be recognised. This means the leading pro-Thaksin figures must also rethink. Are they fighting for democracy, or are they making it harder for democracy to be established firmly and healthily in Thailand?

To promote the true voices of rural people, everyone including Thaksin must think carefully. It's probably true that the harder the fight, the sweeter the victory, but the fight must be genuinely noble. Democracy deserves a good, brave and worthwhile champion, not a questionable proxy who keeps giving it a bad name.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/opinion/Playing-dead-isnt-playing-it-right-30269537.html

-- The Nation 2015-09-26

[CiaranO]

I see the attitude adjustment seems to have worked.

[smedly]

seems to me to be fairly accurate

Edited September 25, 2015 by smedly

[Reigntax]

The military were politically active well before Thaksin did so. They blame him for the last 10 or more years, who do they blame for the previous 60 years? Thaksin also, because black magic told them he was coming?

The military are the biggest problem and they way they have imposed their views on the country has caused most of the problems present today and the attitude where the elite believe they are above any law.

[ChrisY1]

"The Shinawatras are tainted,"

Are there many big families here that are not?

[473geo]

Well in my opinion 'lie low' is good advice to politicians on both sides, take a step back to evaluate while the opportunity has been provided

The current administration will be appraised by the Thai people regarding their actions, policies, and their ability to deliver and move the country forward. Success should raise an expectation of continuity, poor performance expectation for replacement.

The current PM has shown he is prepared to carry out the same methodology within his organisation, in this regard he is setting good example.

Moving forward is the key, do not allow Thailand become mired in outdated authoritarian ideology, this is one major challenge that the PM faces.

Deliver improved education systems, deliver improved infrastructure, deliver a huge blow to corruption, deliver a sustainable agricultural policy, ensure the law is applied equally across all levels of society, and be sure to acknowledge a place at the table for all Thai people...... take Thailand to a level where politicians are elected to represent the people not themselves.....only then will 'democracy' be relevant function

The PM has opportunity and authority to implement rapid major improvement, an authority unknown to Thai 'governments', let us hope the PM is productive in setting a standard of governance that will be a marker for the future. 'Attitude adjustment' should quickly become an action of the past as the PM gains the confidence of the nation by delivering the progress, economic and internal stability required

So yes 'lie low' 'step back' there are many challenges facing this PM a clamour for return to democracy among them. Give the PM time to complete the mission of returning happiness and the country to the Thai people, then the Thai people will have the opportunity to decide who they would like to run it.

[deckape]

The interim government is not repeating the mistake of the 2006 coup leaders, who allowed a pro-Thaksin party to swiftly return to power.

Now they will make the mistake of allowing a pro-Thaksin party slowly return to power. Enjoy it while you can boys, because it can't last...

[Ichabod]

More from the yellow rag that supported the illegal suppression of voting by Suthep's thugs.

[WhizBang]

More from the yellow rag that supported the illegal suppression of voting by Suthep's thugs.

Oh please. Give it a rest. You are not helping in the slightest.

[worgeordie]

Its a pity he does not take his own advice,but that would be

very difficult for such a narcissistic person,its all about him.

regards Worgeordie

[scorecard]

More from the yellow rag that supported the illegal suppression of voting by Suthep's thugs.

Have you forgotten the red democracy schools and local canvassers for the red's etc.,

- They conducted many hate speech sessions in which the local, some quite naive folks, were told lies and untruths, and had to listen again and again to deliberately doctored audio tapes.

- They ensured any opposition parties were, through threats and intimidation, not allowed to hold rallies, give speeches etc., in their areas.

- And in most cases locals would have been too afraid to attend anyway.

[lovelomsak]

More from the yellow rag that supported the illegal suppression of voting by Suthep's thugs.

Oh please. Give it a rest. You are not helping in the slightest.

Is this about helping I donot think so the guy was just telling the truth and the truth hurts huh.

[oneday]

Thaksin advising his lieutenants to "play dead" means that Thailand's vicious cycle is sure to continue...

This reporter is so far off base he is clueless. The cycle will continue no matter what Thaksin says or does or even if he and his entire family were no longer on this earth. The problems will continue because the problems are far deeper than one family. The Bangkok elite or yellow shirts just use Thaksin as an excuse. If he were gone they would find something else to justify their taking over the country even though they are a minority.

[lovelomsak]

More from the yellow rag that supported the illegal suppression of voting by Suthep's thugs.

Have you forgotten the red democracy schools and local canvassers for the red's etc.,

- They conducted many hate speech sessions in which the local, some quite naive folks, were told lies and untruths, and had to listen again and again to deliberately doctored audio tapes.

- They ensured any opposition parties were, through threats and intimidation, not allowed to hold rallies, give speeches etc., in their areas.

- And in most cases locals would have been too afraid to attend anyway.

I think some members here should grow up and face reality.

Edited September 26, 2015 by lovelomsak

[MZurf]

More from the yellow rag that supported the illegal suppression of voting by Suthep's thugs.

Have you forgotten the red democracy schools and local canvassers for the red's etc.,

- They conducted many hate speech sessions in which the local, some quite naive folks, were told lies and untruths, and had to listen again and again to deliberately doctored audio tapes.

- They ensured any opposition parties were, through threats and intimidation, not allowed to hold rallies, give speeches etc., in their areas.

- And in most cases locals would have been too afraid to attend anyway.

Oh great, another "But, but, but....Thaksin" post. This is about an article in The Nation today, not what the Shins/Reds did way back when in the bad old days when people actually had the burdensome task of voting.

[bassman]

The editorial was tough on Taksin and rightly so. But was awful easy on the current government which would lead one to believe this just might be propaganda.

[Confuscious]

The advice to "play death" is a very good advice.

Like it or not.

Everybody manes mistakes.
And the current government seems to have a patent for making errors.

Let the current government be weaken from within and strike back with full power.

Seems that process of weakening from within is progressing in full speed now with the Courts judging fairly.
No matter who or what you are.

Have fun while it last.

[DKUNPUTAF713]

In most of the world's democracies their Army/military come under their governments

civilian ministry not the the way Thailand has their setup.

Here it is just the opposite in that the military regime control/rule is over the civilian

government(s).

Have you folks noticed some of the military are disguised in black w/ masks and armed

to the teeth walking around the civilian populace? In what other democratic society do

you ever see this?

[NickJ]

The burdensome task of vote buying more like it. I remember the max exodus from Bkk everytime there was an election, well organized with payments of 500 to 1000 b per vote. People get the govt they deserve.

[Bakseeda]

The military were politically active well before Thaksin did so. They blame him for the last 10 or more years, who do they blame for the previous 60 years? Thaksin also, because black magic told them he was coming?

The military are the biggest problem and they way they have imposed their views on the country has caused most of the problems present today and the attitude where the elite believe they are above any law.

Reigntax ......How long have you been living here in Thailand.... you are a Farang... Thai politics has absolutely nothing to do with us. If you cannot see that Thaksin was a thief, cheat and complete swindler, then you are blind.

That man has the morals of a street dog......

And as for stating that " the elite believe they are above any law." Unless you are reading from a different page from me, They are above the law.... So, if you like living in Thailand, get on with it..!

And a wee secret, Don't believe all your wife tell you..!

[LannaGuy]

and if Thaksin does not fight for freedom and democracy who will right now? he is far from ideal and far from 'clean' but then nor are the EXTREMELY wealthy Junta who have BILLIONS

I am almost for anybody who wants to restore democracy in this beautiful country. I know one thing... the Junta's popularity is waning FAST

Edited September 26, 2015 by LannaGuy

[Time Traveller]

The military were politically active well before Thaksin did so. They blame him for the last 10 or more years, who do they blame for the previous 60 years? Thaksin also, because black magic told them he was coming?

The military are the biggest problem and they way they have imposed their views on the country has caused most of the problems present today and the attitude where the elite believe they are above any law.

Reigntax ......How long have you been living here in Thailand.... you are a Farang... Thai politics has absolutely nothing to do with us. If you cannot see that Thaksin was a thief, cheat and complete swindler, then you are blind.

That man has the morals of a street dog......

And as for stating that " the elite believe they are above any law." Unless you are reading from a different page from me, They are above the law.... So, if you like living in Thailand, get on with it..!

And a wee secret, Don't believe all your wife tell you..!

Oh how original. Another guy beating his chest proclaiming "how long have you been in thailand" !!! Kind of fits the bullying profile of all military supporters.

Call Thaksin whatever you want. But being farang or not doesn't change the fact that he was the man and party that was chosen by the majority of thais to lead the country. And not just once.

Edited September 26, 2015 by Time Traveller

[Srikcir]

The PTP needs to do more than "play dead." It needs to rebrand itself away from being the face of the Shinawatras. It has become too much like a royal dynasty that contradicts its political base and dilutes its difference from the Democrats.

It needs a new face and name for leadership but that doesn't necessarily mean abandoning its ideology. In fact its populist foundations should be expanded further into the Thai middle class without abandoning the low income class. Too long its has rest its laurels on a 45-48% contistuency support and needs to challenge the Democrats on their "home truf." Its low income class support is tenous at best and susceptable to political inroads by the Democrats and military who can be just as populist as the PTP.

It also needs to attract the millions of voters in the South by breaking Suthep's hegemony. That will never happen under the banner of Thaksin.

Don't play dead - play SMART.

[Time Traveller]

what exactly is the Nation saying? The current law prohibits political activities. Are the editors actually asking Thaksin and his supporters to break the law?

Edited September 26, 2015 by Time Traveller

[Tatsujin]

More from the yellow rag that supported the illegal suppression of voting by Suthep's thugs.

Have you forgotten the red democracy schools and local canvassers for the red's etc.,

- They conducted many hate speech sessions in which the local, some quite naive folks, were told lies and untruths, and had to listen again and again to deliberately doctored audio tapes.

- They ensured any opposition parties were, through threats and intimidation, not allowed to hold rallies, give speeches etc., in their areas.

- And in most cases locals would have been too afraid to attend anyway.

I think some members here should grow up and face reality.

Please explain further, which reality should members here be living in?

[ramrod711]

But there's a big difference between "playing dead" and "playing it right". The Shinawatras are tainted, and the more Thaksin attempts to attach his family name to "democracy", the more difficult it will be for Thailand to become a true democracy. Everyone wants to get back to democratic rule, but the mere mention of his name makes too many people cringe.

Dead right, the problem being that the hangers on that formed Thaksin's parties were and are only interested in a piece of the action. Why can't all these champions of the poor state the obvious, Thaksin is pro Thaksin, and that's all. The party, whatever they're calling it this week, would be better off without him and his "give me amnesty" platform.

[ramrod711]

More from the yellow rag that supported the illegal suppression of voting by Suthep's thugs.

Have you forgotten the red democracy schools and local canvassers for the red's etc.,

- They conducted many hate speech sessions in which the local, some quite naive folks, were told lies and untruths, and had to listen again and again to deliberately doctored audio tapes.

- They ensured any opposition parties were, through threats and intimidation, not allowed to hold rallies, give speeches etc., in their areas.

- And in most cases locals would have been too afraid to attend anyway.

Oh great, another "But, but, but....Thaksin" post. This is about an article in The Nation today, not what the Shins/Reds did way back when in the bad old days when people actually had the burdensome task of voting.

Oh great, another forget everything that happened in the past post. Inconvenient to actually address the issues that got us where we are, much better to take pot shots. Remember in 2010, before the army had to step in, Abhisit negotiated face to face with red shirts, promised an election in 3 months, not good enough for them, they stepped up the bombings instead. Seems they weren't all that eager to vote then.

[scorecard]

and if Thaksin does not fight for freedom and democracy who will right now? he is far from ideal and far from 'clean' but then nor are the EXTREMELY wealthy Junta who have BILLIONS

I am almost for anybody who wants to restore democracy in this beautiful country. I know one thing... the Junta's popularity is waning FAST

What a strange comment - thaksin fighting for freedom and democracy ...

[LannaGuy]

and if Thaksin does not fight for freedom and democracy who will right now? he is far from ideal and far from 'clean' but then nor are the EXTREMELY wealthy Junta who have BILLIONS

I am almost for anybody who wants to restore democracy in this beautiful country. I know one thing... the Junta's popularity is waning FAST

What a strange comment - thaksin fighting for freedom and democracy ...

it was not meant to be taken literally

[LannaGuy]

More from the yellow rag that supported the illegal suppression of voting by Suthep's thugs.

Have you forgotten the red democracy schools and local canvassers for the red's etc.,

- They conducted many hate speech sessions in which the local, some quite naive folks, were told lies and untruths, and had to listen again and again to deliberately doctored audio tapes.

- They ensured any opposition parties were, through threats and intimidation, not allowed to hold rallies, give speeches etc., in their areas.

- And in most cases locals would have been too afraid to attend anyway.

Oh great, another "But, but, but....Thaksin" post. This is about an article in The Nation today, not what the Shins/Reds did way back when in the bad old days when people actually had the burdensome task of voting.

Oh great, another forget everything that happened in the past post. Inconvenient to actually address the issues that got us where we are, much better to take pot shots. Remember in 2010, before the army had to step in, Abhisit negotiated face to face with red shirts, promised an election in 3 months, not good enough for them, they stepped up the bombings instead. Seems they weren't all that eager to vote then.

I do agree that that was a HUGE strategic error by the reds and I said so at the time.

But we are where we are no point keep referencing back.

Prayut has been in power 18 months and lied about holding elections and lied about 'no coup' and so, for me his tenure is built on NO mandate and lies.

I was distantly hoping, wishing and nearly praying that although I detest coups and junta's that he might be fair. Bring reconciliation, hold talks with ALL sides and bring the people with him. He has done none of those three things and is busy designing a charter/constitution that will be a choice of ANY government as long as it's yellow.