Temple raid a global embarrassment
How have we come to this, with hundreds of security officials shoving and wrestling monks and unarmed disciples, including women?
It is an international disgrace and reflects badly on us as a Buddhist nation. Now that five days of searching and scuffling has failed to locate the abbot, Phra Dhammachayo, within the temple compound, I urge the authorities to back down and let cooler heads prevail. The authorities claim they are merely upholding the law and attempting to bring the abbot to justice. As such they must proceed by using every legal means possible, no matter how many years it takes. This is the only righteous and legitimate path available.
If force is used instead, in international eyes the Land of Smiles risks becoming the Land of Security Officers Wrestling with Monks. It is not too late. By backing down, the authorities would actually be seen as reasonable, sincere and legitimate. I urge Premier Prayut to consider his own political reputation and capital, call off this raid, and focus on more urgent national tasks such as strengthening the economy.
Edward Kitlertsirivatana
