Yingluck has the support of big names
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Having desperately conjured up a seemingly never ending supply of reasons to criticise PM Yingluck since she came to power - ranging from those with some justification, such as her lack of experience, to the ludicrous and petty, for example her choice of
Fortunately, a host of international political leaders, who pointedly ignored the previous government, have been beating a path to her door to show their support, obviously and naturally reckoning that her democratic credentials are far more important than any linguistic or other shortcomings, real or imagined. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s very careful choice of language during her recent press conference in Bangkok was an emphatic show of support from the US government, and sent a clear message that will have been a great morale booster to Yingluck and her ministers during a difficult time when political opponents, not all of whom are noted for their love of democracy, are doing all they can to undermine her credibility.
An invitation to the prime minister from President Obama to meet with him at the White House early next year will be another significant milestone on the road towards re-establishing Thailand’s international prestige after the troubles and setbacks of recent years. Where it matters, Yingluck’s ability to communicate is yielding positive results for Thailand.
Robin Grant
Bangkok
