Half-truths used to defend Thaksin

Much as I respect Somsak Pola’s political opinions and democratic rights, I feel he has gone too far in defending Thaksin Shinawatra’s innocence and political pureness.

First, Somsak said that he himself hated Thaksin for using taxpayers’ money to buy himself the “Air Force One”. Sir, a plane costs only a few billion baht. But the cost of the rice-buying scheme alone – by the Yingluck government under Thaksin’s control – will have run up to Bt1 trillion within a few years. Why did you not mention this fact too?

Second, I don’t think any Thai in his or her right mind likes military coups. However, Thaksin’s behaviour prior to the 2006 coup conjured up the spectre of another kind of despotism taking hold in Thailand – a parliamentary dictatorship under Thaksin himself. Again, Somsak failed to mention this historical fact.

Last, there are cases against holders of political office where Thaksin has been tried. He has both lost and won in those cases.

The trouble is, Thaksin and his cronies cried foul and attacked the courts every time he was found guilty but took it for granted when he was found innocent.

Next time, speak the whole truth, please.

Vint Chavala

Lamphun