Probity in public life is no match for Thai family values
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Re: “Prayut must ensure transparent probe into family dealings”, Letters, September 28.
The media are making a mountain out of a pile of dog’s poop in targeting General Preecha Chan-o-cha and his family.
Favouritism and nepotism are ingrained in Thai culture. They are practised in every sphere – from government, politics, the military and business to religious institutions, universities, schools and journalism.
A father who uses his connections to benefit his children is merely following Thai family values, whereby parents pamper and dote on their kids no matter how old they are. General Preecha said it best: “Everybody does it.”
It would be futile to send Preecha’s case to the national anti-corruption watchdog. You can safely bet your house he would be exonerated by a 9-0 vote, or in the worst-case scenario 8-1.
Meanwhile I suggest the government change its warning in the TV advert from “Don’t cheat when growing up”, to “Don’t get caught cheating when growing up.”
Somsak Pola
