Dhammachayo should prove ‘innocence’ in court
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Followers of Phra Dhammachayo say they are absolutely certain that the abbot is innocent of money laundering - so they should be eager for him to prove that in court, and give the authorities access.
Their demand that the abbot should surrender only when we have full democracy holds no water, as what we have never had, and which is vital to democracy, is political toleration.
But their fears that he would not receive justice under the current regime, when one man wields almighty power, is well-founded.
Just look at the trial of two Myanmar suspects for the rape and murder of two British tourists at Koh Tao last year. The men were sentenced to death on “flimsy” evidence and “confessions”.
The abbot’s disciples have little to fear, as he will have the best defence that money can buy. Also, the junta should be intelligent enough to know that the real judge lies in the streets and paddy fields.
The abbot allegedly has ties to Thaksin, and unless his devotees are utterly convinced of his guilt, a verdict against him will widen the chasm between us – and so hopefully the junta will bend over backwards to ensure everything is transparent.
Burin Kantabutra
