A damning verdict on business as usual under the junta
Re: “Will elected politicians stick to the ‘25 watches’ corruption standard?”, Have Your Say, December 20.
A Johnsen makes light of “wristwatch-gate”, comparing it to stealing a loaf of bread when judged against some of the huge corruption scandals of past years, but he overlooks a fundamental principle. The junta seized power four years ago, claiming their action was justified by, amongst other things, the need to eradicate corruption. The only way that challenging objective could be achieved was for the introduction of a zero-tolerance culture, with the members of the junta leading by example. The failure to properly disclose the possession of expensive watches was just one example of how the junta have failed the test.
It is worth noting that a few days ago an article appeared in the Thai language media by Anand Panyarachun, in which that respected elder statesman and public servant bemoaned the level of corruption in Thailand in 2018. That is a damning verdict if ever there was one.
Robin Grant
Bangkok
