Facebook is no substitute for democracy
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With reference to the letter by Songdej Praditsmanont yesterday, he wrote: "Between being a pure democrat and accepting an unpalatable enactment of freeing an escaped convict of any political affiliation made by a majority party, I would opt to be tainted
In other words, he is willing to accept ANOTHER coup rather than watch Thaksin get the pardon by any means even if it’s completely aboveboard and legal. Our stances are far apart indeed. Songdej continued: “Who will check the coupmakers? Easy! History has taught Thai military men not ever to linger on with that temporary power which is meant to be a stopgap. They were put to shame many times.”
“Social networking resulted in the Arab Spring; democracy can return more quickly than before. Public opinion cannot be easily suppressed in this digital world.”
I wish it were as “easy” as Songdej thinks. If it is that easy why bother having elections at all. Any poor leader whether elected or self-appointed can be ousted simply by using the power of Facebook. No bloodshed, no tears.
Kemadist Chiaracharuwat
Bangkok
