Amnesties benefit individuals, not the country

According to former prime minister Thaksin’s statement, his aims are the same as all Thais’: to resolve prolonged conflicts in the country, to give up partisan politics and to cooperate toward the kind of progress enjoyed by other developing countries. The truth, however, is that the amnesty bill would not help achieve these aims, and neither would it bring reconciliation.

It is unquestioningly accepted that lawbreakers must be punished, as a deterrent to others. Conversely, if they can cleanse their guilt through the abuse of power, people will no longer be afraid of doing wrong.

Mr Thaksin pointed out that all Thai children should grow up under the rule of a law that applies equally to everyone, no matter how powerful. But the amnesty bill would contradict that wish. 

Instead of offering solutions or reconciliation to improve the whole country, amnesty bills in fact offer their benefits to individuals.

Thanapa

Chiang Mai