Flood crisis has raised doubts about leadership
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What has happened over the past few days has clearly defined qualities of Thailand's leaders in the face of the current flood crisis:
First, PM Yingluck on Monday ordered the BMA to open the Khlong Sam Wa sluice gate to one metre wide instead of 75-80 cm. This seemed trivial and routine on the surface.
Then on Tuesday, BMA Governor Sukhumbhand ordered police and officials to stop the leaks illegally incurred by the protesters on both sides of the problematic sluice gate. The BMA also warned that Bangkok now faced total inundation as a result of the PM’s Khlong Sam Wa decision. Three major industrial estates are also on the risk list.
Almost at the same time, Army Commander Gen Prayuth Chan O-cha expressed doubts on the use of a state of emergency, this despite his repeated past calls for a contingency law. Apparently, the Army chief sees the situation as too big and too late for the Army to get seriously involved.
It seems PM Yingluck, in the Khlong Sam Wa incident, has given in to the demands of a mob as against the livelihood of the majority and the country. Her leadership is being seriously questioned. Authorities concerned are not working in unison as a result.
Chavalit Van
Chiang Mai
