Big Brother will be watching you
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It is 2084. The sky is grey and it begins to drizzle. An electric car comes to a halt at the front of the Red House in Korat. From the car emerges President Shinawatre. In his hand is a copy of the newspaper, For Thai, which is owned by Shin Corp.
President Shinawatre walks briskly up the stairs to his office. While walking, he reminisces on the events that occurred over the past 70 years. He recalls the 2035 battle, when the Pheu Thai Party machinery fought against and defeated the last anti-Thaksin movement.
In 2029 the southern and central parts of Thailand were submerged due to global warming. Devoid of their political stronghold, most Democrats defected to Pheu Thai, while others left politics. Those who resisted were imprisoned. The Democrat Party became extinct.
Only the north and northern parts of Thailand exist today, ruled by one party.
Sitting in his office overlooking Korat’s skyscrapers, President Shinawatre hears a knock on the door. Minister of Public Relations Supot enters. “Our robotic army and drones captured a dozen insurgents last night. They were targeting our scarce drinking-water supplies,” says Supot.
“Excellent. Make sure you charge them with Thought Crime under Article 116. And send them to be re-educated,” says the president.
“What about their family members who weren’t involved?” asks Supot.
The president’s eyes meet Supot’s briefly. “Call Thought Police Commissioner Chaleaw. He’ll know what to do.”
A moment later, Chatchai – minister of marketing – walks in. “Mr President, the Shin Casino is in its final construction phase. It is due to open in December. Our last four casinos have been a success, and based on market research, this one will follow suit”.
“Good. And if there’s any public resistance, get Chalaew to handle it. Have I made myself clear?”
“Yes, sir,” Chatchai replies.
“Now schedule a Cabinet meeting for 2pm. We’ll still need to develop technology that monitors everyone’s thoughts. Thinking, after all, can destabilise our party’s legitimacy.”
After Supot and Chatchai leave, President Shinawatre gazes out the window and smiles to himself. A portrait of his grandfather Thaksin hangs on the wall.
It is 2084.
Edward Kitlertsirivatana
Bangkok
