Thailand disappointed with European Parliament’s resolution on human rights

[Squeegee]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

There is no transparency from where you base your morality, your position is an indefensible tautology.

[stickylies]

Well... We westerners had our age of slavery and colonialism. Thais are not impressed by our revised standards anno 2015. They also want their share of exploitation for their own interest. We, humans, never learn. Never.

[nong38]

The Human Rights that have sprung out of this EU Court has opened Pandoras box to some really evil people, who at the first point of losing their argument start saying its against their human rights. It stop ordinary national laws working for the majority and gives the minority a special status costing the ordinary tax payer a lot of cash. It meant well but has been exploited by people you would be seen dead with.

Thailand need not worry too much about the EUCR they count for nothing, they are bunch of ............. ( you can fill in the last word).

[heybruce]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

"And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have."

We understand the difference. The amnesty bill was pushed by an elected government. The amnesty the generals granted themselves is backed up by an army with guns. There's a huge difference.

"Of course their first job is their own protection"

Really? My first job (duty) in the military I served in was to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic". Though that was a military that took orders from an elected leader and didn't stage coups.

It's no surprise the Thai military has different priorities. They certainly have a different attitude towards constitutions, even those written at their own direction.

Edited October 9, 2015 by heybruce

[sjaak327]

Hahaha, the EU doesn't understand..

The EU couldn't be more spot on. This illegal regime full of criminals, that have shown not to give a rats ass about human rights are treated too fairly by the EU.

They should be ashamed and stop talking absolute bullocks, they haven't got a clue about human rights.

[Lite Beer]

THAI-EU RELATIONS
EU criticism misguided: Sek
THE NATION

THAILAND has voiced disappointment over the European parliament's damning resolution on human rights in the Kingdom, saying it did not reflect the reality on the ground.

The resolution did not reflect a clear understanding of the situation and developments in Thailand and the government's efforts to protect and promote human rights, Foreign Ministry spokesman Sek Wannamethee said. "Thailand respects and is committed to its international obligations on human rights and it clings onto the road map towards an election," he said.

On Thursday the European parliament adopted a non-binding resolution by 581 votes to 35, with 35 abstentions, to express its concern over "deteriorating human rights situation in Thailand following the coup of May 2014".

It urged the government to lift repressive restrictions on the right to liberty and the peaceful exercise of other human rights. It also called on the authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, withdraw charges and release individuals and media operators who have been sentenced or charged for exercising their right to freedom of expression or assembly.

The European parliament also urged the government to abolish the death penalty and asked the European External Action Service and the EU Delegation to use all available instruments to ensure respect for human rights and the rule of law in Thailand, in particular by continuing to observe investigations and trials of opposition leaders.

Sek said Thailand was ready to listen to constructive recommendations based on accurate information and would cooperate with the EU in all aspects and levels. Thailand would fully work as a coordinator between Asean and the EU in order to have closer relations for the mutual benefit of the two regions.

The EU strongly criticised Thailand after the military coup in May last year and prohibited high-level engagement with the government until democracy is restored in the country.

The junta, or National Council for Peace and Order, imposed restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly over the past year.

Journalists, activists and politicians were arrested or summoned to "adjust their attitude" after criticising the junta and the government.

Source: http://www.nationmultimedia.com/politics/EU-criticism-misguided-Sek-30270590.html

-- The Nation 2015-10-10

[John1012]

I am English and my name is John. I hope if anyone fron TV meets me that they do not confuse me with EJ who posts such drivel on TV. I must admit that EU human rights legislation is ofttimes interpreted in a stupid manner, allowing foreign criminals/terroriststhe right of a family life (ie. not to deport) . If you commit a crime against your fellow humans, you lose the right to treated as they are, until you have completed the punishment for said crime, and if you are not a citizen of the country you must be deported to your country of origin. But it does support the right of free speech,(unless it is to comment negatively on a certain exremely sensative religious cult), to gather together to voice dissent (legally of course), it protects individuals/groups from illegal government interference in there legal daily life But it would be nice if Thailand adopted the same principals as the EU human rights bill. (dream on). Or if Thailand actually applied it's wriiten laws equally to ALL people dwelling within it's borders and demanded extradition for those it wished to prosecute who had left Thailand. Until that time Western governments/institutions will not view the Thai government with much sympathy.

[selftaopath]

Hahaha, the EU doesn't understand..

The EU couldn't be more spot on. This illegal regime full of criminals, that have shown not to give a rats ass about human rights are treated too fairly by the EU.

They should be ashamed and stop talking absolute bullocks, they haven't got a clue about human rights.

What previous Thai government did? The Shin mafia certainly didn't. But they gave a few hundred baht to the uneducated Isaan folks insuring they could do ANYTHING they wanted... including "the war on drugs." lol So where might Thailand return to or go. Personally I think it's a lost cause.

[JAG]

Perhaps the 2nd Army should send one of its re-education units currently touring Issan to Brussels to " have a few words".

Best get a move on though, whilst Thai International are still allowed to fly into Europe.

[LannaGuy]

I see the government is setting up a panel to ensure all future parties contesting an election must not have 'populist policies and comply with the elites agenda'. Will they be 'disappointed' if the World does not 'understand'?

[alant]

Another post from today;

"Army unit helps Isaan folk find 'correct political understanding'
JITTRAPORN SENWONG
THE NATION

BANGKOK: -- "CORRECT" political understanding has been given to people in 20 provinces in the Northeast - with good feedback received, Lt-General Thawat Sookplang, the commander of the Second Army Area, said yesterday.

The Second Army Area undertook the mission through the Centre for Reconciliation and Reform, sending staff to talk with people of different political opinions.

The feedback had been good, Thawat said, with little or no opposition. He also looked forward to using this approach to explain the upcoming charter draft, he said.

Building "correct understanding" is one of the Army areas' duties to support the military-led regime, according to Army commander-in-chief General Theerachai Nakawanich's policies."

[FangFerang]

Where, oh where is djjamie when we need him? Since he's a dj, maybe he would play the Thai version of auld lang syne, because most of us here have never heard it...

[FangFerang]

When they took the Nation reporter in for attitude adjustment and then pressured them into making him resign, news agencies all over the world let out a collective fart. You can smell the freedom now!

[craigt3365]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

If you read the news, you'll know what's going on. And the EU has officials here in Thailand. They know exactly what's going on. I love this part from the EU statement. Spot on:

Welcomes the decision to dismiss the criminal defamation case against Andy Hall, and his subsequent release; calls for the computer crime and criminal defamation cases initiated against him at Southern Bangkok Criminal Court also to be dropped, given that his actions as a human rights defender were aimed at exposing instances of human trafficking and improving the legal situation of migrant workers in Thailand, which confirms his right to carry out research and advocacy without fear of reprisals; expresses its concern, with regard to the civil defamation cases, that his trial may not be fully impartial, as there have been reports of ownership links between the suing company and high-ranking Thai politicians; asks the EU Delegation to continue to follow his legal situation closely and to attend his trial;

[MZurf]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

"And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have."

We understand the difference. The amnesty bill was pushed by an elected government. The amnesty the generals granted themselves is backed up by an army with guns. There's a huge difference.

"Of course their first job is their own protection"

Really? My first job (duty) in the military I served in was to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic". Though that was a military that took orders from an elected leader and didn't stage coups.

It's no surprise the Thai military has different priorities. They certainly have a different attitude towards constitutions, even those written at their own direction.

There's no point in arguing with EnglishJohn/English 1. He really doesn't get it..

Edited October 10, 2015 by MZurf

[MZurf]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

"And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have"

Funny how EJ misses no opportunity to talk about the stupidity of other people (and in particular the less-than-human farmers of the north-east) while clearly demonstrating in post after post that he's not exactly a rocket scientist himself and that his grasp on reality is tenuous - at best. And that's clearly demonstrated by the next quote:

"Of course their first job is their own protection"

Oh, John. Try asking members of the UK armed forces what their first priority is and I'm pretty sure you get a very different answer. But hey, don't let that disturb your delusions!

"....but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves."

No John. They did it because they overthrew an elected government, tore up the constitution, implemented article 44, started attitude adjusting people, etc, etc, etc. They even gave themselves an amnesty for any future actions they might take. Now, if that's not the get out of jail card for free of all times I don't know what is!

[waldroj]

In his speech to the UN, Prayut made a point of saying “What we do today will become tomorrow's history. Therefore, we must make the best of today, so that ten or twenty years from now we will be remembered for our actions”.

Well, Mr PM, you haven’t been making the best of today, and the European Parliament have simply responded to your actions!

If the EU response disappoints, then maybe you should make a serious attempt at reconciliation in this country. Start by overturning the convictions of those who don’t conform to your homespun ideal. Oh yes, and while you’re at it, lift repressive restrictions on the rights to liberty, and the peaceful exercise of other human rights.

Contrary to the spin from Khun Sek, I think the European Parliament’s negative resolution clearly reflects their very accurate understanding of the situation and developments in Thailand.

[Just1Voice]

Hey, Thailand, I really hate to destroy your illusion of "greatness", but trust me when I say that the EU, and in fact, most of the civilized world, understand the situation in Thailand all too well. Hence, their criticism. All these other countries have embassies and consulates here. They have workers here, and in some, or perhaps many cases, they have spies here. With all of this, you seem to think they don't understand Thailand? Hello, welcome to the real world. They know exactly what is going on here, and who is doing what to whom, and how.

This is not Siam of 200 years ago where you could do something in BKK, and people in Chiang Mai or Nakon Nowhere might hear about it 6 or 7 months later. Or never. It's 2015 Thailand, where something that happens in Chiang Dao can be spread around the world on the internet in a matter of hours, or less. It's a Thailand where foreign governments MIGHT read the Thai press for a morning chuckle, the read the real news that has not been suppressed or "adjusted" for attitude, and get a very clear picture of what is going on.

Trust me, Thailand, the world has a very clear picture of you, and knows exactly what is going on here. It is YOU who do not understand that "Thainess" is bull dung that only the Thai buy.

Edited October 10, 2015 by Just1Voice

[oneday]

Believably of the EU assessment......... +1000

Believably of the Thailand's rebuttal...... -1000

[oneday]

The current military government walks through a dream world of profound ignorance.

They need to see a psychiatrist who specializes in helping deluded governments.

[Bob12345]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

"And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have."

We understand the difference. The amnesty bill was pushed by an elected government. The amnesty the generals granted themselves is backed up by an army with guns. There's a huge difference.

"Of course their first job is their own protection"

Really? My first job (duty) in the military I served in was to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic". Though that was a military that took orders from an elected leader and didn't stage coups.

It's no surprise the Thai military has different priorities. They certainly have a different attitude towards constitutions, even those written at their own direction.

Beautiful post heybruce!

Really? My first job (duty) in the military I served in was to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic".

Thailand's army is a bit different, their priorities are:

1) protecting themselves

2) protecting their family

3) protecting their own businesses and wealth

4) protecting the people who got them where they are now

5) protecting the businesses of their family

6) protecting the businesses of the people who got them where they are now

7) protecting their country, religion, monarchy

8) protecting the Thai people

[BestBitterPhuket]

Now, two years later, it is clear that the coup didn't change anything in Thailand. Nothing of importance has been reformed, so then coup was totally unnecessary. EU is not stupid, and can easily see through all the rubbish explanations and excuses from the Thai coup makers. The fact is that had they done something to improve the quality of life for ALL Thais, such as getting serious on corruption, introduce reforms that lift people out of powerty, distribute opportunities fairly, reform of police and civil service, the EU would have no case against Thailand.

[Baerboxer]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

"And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have"

Funny how EJ misses no opportunity to talk about the stupidity of other people (and in particular the less-than-human farmers of the north-east) while clearly demonstrating in post after post that he's not exactly a rocket scientist himself and that his grasp on reality is tenuous - at best. And that's clearly demonstrated by the next quote:

"Of course their first job is their own protection"

Oh, John. Try asking members of the UK armed forces what their first priority is and I'm pretty sure you get a very different answer. But hey, don't let that disturb your delusions!

"....but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves."

No John. They did it because they overthrew an elected government, tore up the constitution, implemented article 44, started attitude adjusting people, etc, etc, etc. They even gave themselves an amnesty for any future actions they might take. Now, if that's not the get out of jail card for free of all times I don't know what is!

The UK is unlikely to ever face a military coup, true enough. It's also unlikely to tolerate a government that openly lies, cheats, and refuses to obey the law or court's decisions and especially one that openly hands over government to a non elected criminal fugitive who pays a salary to it's MP's and Ministers.

Whilst not perfect, the UK judicial system and police are mostly impartial although there is still some political interference. The days of elite privilege, the old boy network and one law for the rich is not that far in the past though.

Here, the whole system is a joke, riddled with corruption, most make it up as the go along, and the amount of litigation is laughable especially around defamation.

Thailand is one on it's own. And unlikely to ever accept change, as change must come from within, and there isn't really any desire within.

[manhood]

Sorry Mr SEK

you are just sick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Better move on to change Thai way of disregard Human Rights as one point of the hundred and thousand other before you can think about changing into a democratic country!!!!!!!

[MZurf]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

"And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have"

Funny how EJ misses no opportunity to talk about the stupidity of other people (and in particular the less-than-human farmers of the north-east) while clearly demonstrating in post after post that he's not exactly a rocket scientist himself and that his grasp on reality is tenuous - at best. And that's clearly demonstrated by the next quote:

"Of course their first job is their own protection"

Oh, John. Try asking members of the UK armed forces what their first priority is and I'm pretty sure you get a very different answer. But hey, don't let that disturb your delusions!

"....but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves."

No John. They did it because they overthrew an elected government, tore up the constitution, implemented article 44, started attitude adjusting people, etc, etc, etc. They even gave themselves an amnesty for any future actions they might take. Now, if that's not the get out of jail card for free of all times I don't know what is!

The UK is unlikely to ever face a military coup, true enough. It's also unlikely to tolerate a government that openly lies, cheats, and refuses to obey the law or court's decisions and especially one that openly hands over government to a non elected criminal fugitive who pays a salary to it's MP's and Ministers.

Whilst not perfect, the UK judicial system and police are mostly impartial although there is still some political interference. The days of elite privilege, the old boy network and one law for the rich is not that far in the past though.

Here, the whole system is a joke, riddled with corruption, most make it up as the go along, and the amount of litigation is laughable especially around defamation.

Thailand is one on it's own. And unlikely to ever accept change, as change must come from within, and there isn't really any desire within.

"It's also unlikely to tolerate a government that openly lies, cheats, and refuses to obey the law or court's decisions and especially one that openly hands over government to a non elected criminal fugitive who pays a salary to it's MP's and Ministers."

Yes, such a government would quickly have been voted out by the UK electorate. A shame that's not allowed in Thailand.

"Here, the whole system is a joke, riddled with corruption, most make it up as the go along, and the amount of litigation is laughable especially around defamation."

Unfortunately true.

"Thailand is one on it's own. And unlikely to ever accept change, as change must come from within, and there isn't really any desire within. "

Only partially correct. I think there is a real desire among those who've never had a voice or say for things to change but, of course, the snouts in the trough (whatever color) want to maintain status quo. I am however fairly certain that there is a limit to how tightly the lid can be secured by the junta and their backers before it all blows up in their faces. It's a crying shame that there is no real desire by the powers that be to fundamentally change Thailand for the better as time quickly runs out.

[Baerboxer]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

"And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have."

We understand the difference. The amnesty bill was pushed by an elected government. The amnesty the generals granted themselves is backed up by an army with guns. There's a huge difference.

"Of course their first job is their own protection"

Really? My first job (duty) in the military I served in was to "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic". Though that was a military that took orders from an elected leader and didn't stage coups.

It's no surprise the Thai military has different priorities. They certainly have a different attitude towards constitutions, even those written at their own direction.

The Amnesty Bill was pushed by an elected government which was openly controlled by a non elected criminal fugitive who paid all their MP's and Ministers a salary to do his bidding. He reshuffled the cabinet to his liking and to accommodate his mates on several occasions. And of course, the bill was cheated through parliament, then illegally amended so that he himself would be the chief beneficiary. When called out by the people, the PM, his younger sister lied and repeatedly lied, that the bill had been killed when in reality it hadn't.

But hey, they were elected, so they can do anything they like. Just as your Mr. Nixon thought.

American democracy - wonderfully thought out by the founding revolutionaries (did they pardon themselves for their treason when they became revolutionaries by the way). But corrupted by man. Now controlled by big business, financiers, the banks, powerful lobby groups etc. But, yey, dog catchers are still elected.

Do you understand the difference between being elected, obeying the law, and governing in the interests of all citizens, including those who didn't vote for you, in a transparent and accountable way; and being elected, ignoring the law, doing as you please, governing in the interests of a few and especially your own interests and cavorting with criminals?

Yes, the US military doesn't stage coups. But some of their actions in Korea, Laos and Vietnam have been a tad questionable. Whose orders were they following?

[razer]

Shut up EU. When you complain about this ... then you might have some credibility on human rights issues.

Most links have been blocked but for some reason Greenwald keeps his site up. Hummm ... I wonder if he has expert advice.

https://theintercept.com/2015/09/23/u-s-state-department-welcomes-news-close-ally-saudi-arabia-chosen-head-u-n-human-rights-council-panel/

[Baerboxer]

"It calls on the Thai authorities to overturn convictions and sentences, to withdraw charges and to release individuals and media people who have been sentenced or charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression or assembly."

Who is giving them their information ?. Who are these individuals and media people who need to be released ?. How many have been even been sentenced and charged ?. I wish the EU had paid more attention during the amnesty disgrace and ensuing protests.

And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have. The notion is ridiculous. Of course their first job is their own protection - but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves. As things move on, your excuses to vent spite and hatred are getting weaker and weaker and your real character is showing through.

"And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have"

Funny how EJ misses no opportunity to talk about the stupidity of other people (and in particular the less-than-human farmers of the north-east) while clearly demonstrating in post after post that he's not exactly a rocket scientist himself and that his grasp on reality is tenuous - at best. And that's clearly demonstrated by the next quote:

"Of course their first job is their own protection"

Oh, John. Try asking members of the UK armed forces what their first priority is and I'm pretty sure you get a very different answer. But hey, don't let that disturb your delusions!

"....but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves."

No John. They did it because they overthrew an elected government, tore up the constitution, implemented article 44, started attitude adjusting people, etc, etc, etc. They even gave themselves an amnesty for any future actions they might take. Now, if that's not the get out of jail card for free of all times I don't know what is!

The UK is unlikely to ever face a military coup, true enough. It's also unlikely to tolerate a government that openly lies, cheats, and refuses to obey the law or court's decisions and especially one that openly hands over government to a non elected criminal fugitive who pays a salary to it's MP's and Ministers.

Whilst not perfect, the UK judicial system and police are mostly impartial although there is still some political interference. The days of elite privilege, the old boy network and one law for the rich is not that far in the past though.

Here, the whole system is a joke, riddled with corruption, most make it up as the go along, and the amount of litigation is laughable especially around defamation.

Thailand is one on it's own. And unlikely to ever accept change, as change must come from within, and there isn't really any desire within.

"It's also unlikely to tolerate a government that openly lies, cheats, and refuses to obey the law or court's decisions and especially one that openly hands over government to a non elected criminal fugitive who pays a salary to it's MP's and Ministers."

Yes, such a government would quickly have been voted out by the UK electorate. A shame that's not allowed in Thailand.

"Here, the whole system is a joke, riddled with corruption, most make it up as the go along, and the amount of litigation is laughable especially around defamation."

Unfortunately true.

"Thailand is one on it's own. And unlikely to ever accept change, as change must come from within, and there isn't really any desire within. "

Only partially correct. I think there is a real desire among those who've never had a voice or say for things to change but, of course, the snouts in the trough (whatever color) want to maintain status quo. I am however fairly certain that there is a limit to how tightly the lid can be secured by the junta and their backers before it all blows up in their faces. It's a crying shame that there is no real desire by the powers that be to fundamentally change Thailand for the better as time quickly runs out.

None of the seriously very, even outrageously, rich desire any change to a system that makes them and their extended families and cronies vastly more wealthy.

The growth in social media, access to information, and better education of many children of the poor will present the ruling class with challenges. We are seeing, through the Junta, and the previous government, responses to those challenges. I dare say that, sadly, whatever sort of government follows the Junta, will carry on as previous ones.

What makes me laugh are those that continually claim Thaksin, his family, and even more laughably, his little sister, were trying to empower the masses. They weren't not in the slightest. A few crumbs, good electioneering PR machine and local enforcement. Once elected, they just pushed their noses in the trough and pushed others out. Same old corruption and self interest.

The Junta claimed to want to do all sorts of reforms - seems the usual Thai hot air. Things are "cracked down" then drift back to normal" e.g was refused by several taxis yesterday, back to normal following the crack down.

Most Thais I know, even the educated middle class ones, the academics, the more wealthy, the well connected, all don't really believe things will ever change that much. I'm not sure there is a real desire for change. Better the devil you know attitude - and certainly don't see the need for farang advice.

[JAG]

The current military government walks through a dream world of profound ignorance.

They need to see a psychiatrist who specializes in helping deluded governments.

It's called "the electorate".

[MZurf]

"And to those who think the amnesty the Junta gave themselves for performing the coup is in any way whatsoever comparable to the amnesty bill : pop down the hospital and see if they've got a spare brain you can have"

Funny how EJ misses no opportunity to talk about the stupidity of other people (and in particular the less-than-human farmers of the north-east) while clearly demonstrating in post after post that he's not exactly a rocket scientist himself and that his grasp on reality is tenuous - at best. And that's clearly demonstrated by the next quote:

"Of course their first job is their own protection"

Oh, John. Try asking members of the UK armed forces what their first priority is and I'm pretty sure you get a very different answer. But hey, don't let that disturb your delusions!

"....but they didn't do it to cancel 25,000 pending cases of corruption against themselves."

No John. They did it because they overthrew an elected government, tore up the constitution, implemented article 44, started attitude adjusting people, etc, etc, etc. They even gave themselves an amnesty for any future actions they might take. Now, if that's not the get out of jail card for free of all times I don't know what is!

The UK is unlikely to ever face a military coup, true enough. It's also unlikely to tolerate a government that openly lies, cheats, and refuses to obey the law or court's decisions and especially one that openly hands over government to a non elected criminal fugitive who pays a salary to it's MP's and Ministers.

Whilst not perfect, the UK judicial system and police are mostly impartial although there is still some political interference. The days of elite privilege, the old boy network and one law for the rich is not that far in the past though.

Here, the whole system is a joke, riddled with corruption, most make it up as the go along, and the amount of litigation is laughable especially around defamation.

Thailand is one on it's own. And unlikely to ever accept change, as change must come from within, and there isn't really any desire within.

"It's also unlikely to tolerate a government that openly lies, cheats, and refuses to obey the law or court's decisions and especially one that openly hands over government to a non elected criminal fugitive who pays a salary to it's MP's and Ministers."

Yes, such a government would quickly have been voted out by the UK electorate. A shame that's not allowed in Thailand.

"Here, the whole system is a joke, riddled with corruption, most make it up as the go along, and the amount of litigation is laughable especially around defamation."

Unfortunately true.

"Thailand is one on it's own. And unlikely to ever accept change, as change must come from within, and there isn't really any desire within. "

Only partially correct. I think there is a real desire among those who've never had a voice or say for things to change but, of course, the snouts in the trough (whatever color) want to maintain status quo. I am however fairly certain that there is a limit to how tightly the lid can be secured by the junta and their backers before it all blows up in their faces. It's a crying shame that there is no real desire by the powers that be to fundamentally change Thailand for the better as time quickly runs out.

None of the seriously very, even outrageously, rich desire any change to a system that makes them and their extended families and cronies vastly more wealthy.

The growth in social media, access to information, and better education of many children of the poor will present the ruling class with challenges. We are seeing, through the Junta, and the previous government, responses to those challenges. I dare say that, sadly, whatever sort of government follows the Junta, will carry on as previous ones.

What makes me laugh are those that continually claim Thaksin, his family, and even more laughably, his little sister, were trying to empower the masses. They weren't not in the slightest. A few crumbs, good electioneering PR machine and local enforcement. Once elected, they just pushed their noses in the trough and pushed others out. Same old corruption and self interest.

The Junta claimed to want to do all sorts of reforms - seems the usual Thai hot air. Things are "cracked down" then drift back to normal" e.g was refused by several taxis yesterday, back to normal following the crack down.

Most Thais I know, even the educated middle class ones, the academics, the more wealthy, the well connected, all don't really believe things will ever change that much. I'm not sure there is a real desire for change. Better the devil you know attitude - and certainly don't see the need for farang advice.

I agree with everything you wrote.

"What makes me laugh are those that continually claim Thaksin, his family, and even more laughably, his little sister, were trying to empower the masses. They weren't not in the slightest. A few crumbs, good electioneering PR machine and local enforcement. Once elected, they just pushed their noses in the trough and pushed others out. Same old corruption and self interest."

Absolutely true, but unwittingly they opened Pandora's Box when they selfishly used the unwashed masses for their own agenda. They're not going to wai and get back in their rice fields without a fight. IMHO Thailand is now a pressure cooker and the pressure is rising.