Prem lauds ‘sacrifice’ by Prayut, team
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For the New Year, privy council chief urges top officials to be sure spending is for the good of the people.
PRIVY COUNCIL President Prem Tinsulanonda yesterday urged the Cabinet and military and police brass to ensure the state budget is spent for the true good of the country and the people.
“I understand that you are tired, but it’s worth it if Thais are happy,” the statesman said.
“I’m overjoyed to see the prime minister and you others sacrifice your own happiness to make the people in our country happy.”
He also gave his blessings to the group led by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, which had called on him at his Si Sao Tewes residence to offer him the traditional New Year’s greetings.
General Prem also gave General Prayut words of encouragement.
“The prime minister is a strong person. He never gives up, so he sets a good example,” he said.
“I don’t think you seek to gain power for yourself. You really work for the country and the people. I may not be of much help to you because I’m getting on in years now.
“But I can help with some thoughts and encouragement, as well as a smidgeon of knowledge,” Prem said.
“People place their hopes in the prime minister, the armed forces and the police. They put their trust in you. So you must not disappoint them. Regardless of the hardship, you have to bear it,” he said to his well-wishers.
Prem also told the group that he believed their virtuousness would serve to protect them from any evil.
“If you do good every day, you will have strong armour,” he said.
Prem served as the Army chief from 1978-81 and as prime minister from 1980-88. He still holds much influence among top military commanders and politicians.
Prem also stressed the importance of unity among the people in the country, citing what His Majesty the King had brought up seven years ago.
“We have to understand that His Majesty meant love and unity must be taken into account in running the country,” he said.
Later, Prem said he was warned to be careful because “many people dislike me”.
However, he hoped virtue would be his good protection.
“Goodness should serve as the best armour. I hope that those who hate me will dwindle,” he said.
Prem was speaking to another group paying their respects – senior cavalry officers. He was also one of them while in the Army.
“I’m like a dying horse that is very weak now. It’s time I retire,” said Prem, who is 95.
