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Tony Blair alluded to what he really meant: “Democracy is not just a way of voting” (I know how votes are bought in Thailand) “but also a way of thinking” (Thaksin thinks, Pheu Thai doesn’t). “It is not about how a majority takes power – it is how the majority relates to the minority” (red-shirt villages and government “appointments” and “disappointments”). He also said the “rule of law” must be “independently and impartially” followed (a slap on the wrist for Yingluck’s overseas speech). He added that the ultimate principal was effective and responsible government (a direct reference for the need for regime change).

Martthi Ahtisaari spoke about trust. But, do you trust a finance minister who tells you only what you want to hear? Do you trust a deputy prime minister who solves murders before the body is found? Do you trust a commerce minister who juggles the losses from the rice price-pledging scheme on a monthly basis?

Priscilla Hayner said, “Reconciliation must not be used for overcoming the opposition to achieve one’s own political agenda.” Hole-in-one, Priscilla!

Richard Bowler

Bangkok