PM loses his cool
Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha lost his temper with a veteran reporter at a press conference on Tuesday, following a Cabinet meeting at Government House. Excerpts of the exchange:
You [the premier] don’t answer our questions straight, to the point, and don’t address issues we ask about.
No. When I conclude, I have to ensure that I explain and describe for you [reporter] a clear picture and create a learning process.
We already have the basic knowledge.
[Starting to raise his voice.] Do you have the knowledge to administer the country like me? You just write, think, and speak, that’s all. And what do I do? I think, write, give orders, follow up on the work and write the plans. Anyone who can write [the plan as I do] please come and stand here.
Please don’t get angry.
You can’t insult me this way.
We aren’t insulting you, but we want to get further information for our questions.
When incorrect information is published, do you [the media] apologise to me?
The newspaper will take responsibility.
I don’t know. It is everyone’s responsibility. You cannot speak this way. You have to reform the media for me. How will you people regulate each other?
This will reduce the conflict. I personally accept and respect you. Please don’t get angry at me.
Prayut then smiled, wai-ed the reporter and apologises to the media before leaving.
