Misguided accusations

I had to read Eric Bahrt’s letter several times to get the gist of what he was on about.

First, as to questioning Songdej Praditsmanont’s prior assertion regarding the declaration of martial law, the fact is that martial law was declared on May 20, 2014, and the coup took place on May 22. If the declaration of martial law was regarded as unauthorised, no doubt those responsible would have been tried for treason. 

Secondly, to say the junta has failed to achieve even law and order doesn’t recognise the state the country was in at the time of the coup and where it is now. The junta has improved conditions by turning around tumultuous times following an administration that was completely out of control. There is at least a level of stability now, the economy has improved, political mayhem has subsided and people are getting on with their lives.

Thirdly, to accuse Songdej and Vint Chavala of being members of the “elite” class is an insult to them and is not for Bahrt to judge. That is the kind of divisive term that limits the ability of Thai people to be united, irrespective of any written charters or other actions by the government.

Bahrt should retract his accusation. His views are tiresome and repeated elsewhere. He ought to just fade away in his veggie patch.

Ray Gregory