Get the businessmen out of politics

They are long overdue. The Network will be as welcomed by the government as Jesus was by the money-changers. The changes will take away the livelihoods of the businessmen posing as politicians who now rule the roost. Corruption is a two-way street. Whether businessmen bribe politicians or politicians extort from businessmen is a moot point. If you have a foot in both camps, you don’t mind.

The moves the Network have in mind are good, but there will have to be some canny folk keeping their eyes on things.

First, “Inform the public clearly about the procurements”. Urgency will be used to bypass this; “because of the flood” will get them off to a good start. The watchers will have to look out for the one-horse race, where only one bidder can fulfil the requirements of the project but four will be found to form “competition”. Rigging the auction is a well-known phenomenon.

Second, “A government investigation to double-check on spending”, suggesting this may be outsourced to an external auditor. If they have to resort to an outside auditor, it is doomed from the start. The economic collapse in the US was greatly assisted by independent outside auditors.

Third, “The setup of a database giving price guidance” is a good idea. I am sure the government already has this, including VAT and commissions.

I hope the Network succeeds. It should prompt some real politicians to become MPs for the good of the country and send the businessmen out to earn, instead of taking off the top.

This action has come at an interesting time. The people in need have proved that they can vote anybody into power that they want. Who will take this opportunity to benefit?

Richard Bowler

Bangkok