Thailand's got its wires crossed

Why are two state telecom entities doing exactly the same thing? Who benefits? Does having two entities ensure lower prices, faster and higher-quality connections? Or are there still two state telecom companies only because leaders desperately cling to their well-paid positions?

The frequencies are an asset for the whole nation that should bring in good revenue for Thailand, not for enriching the few. It’s time to make the telecom sector modern, efficient and economic. So why two state telecom administrations? 

The weaker of the two (the troublemaker) has to go if Thailand is ever to get 3G. TOT has to swallow the part of CAT that is useful and get rid of the rest, especially “the never-ending obstacles” in the leader team. Are we at the starting block for 3G? Running an auction is meant to let the strongest win and at the same time bring maximum revenue to the state and the best service to Thai people.

Now the auction rules are said to have changed – again – to a maximum of 15MHz for each participant, from a total of 45MHz. So, when there are supposed to be three bidders only, this auction is just a joke, bringing less revenue in through the auction itself because all bidders know they’ll secure their maximum share of the frequencies anyway. Why have an auction at all?

What a never-ending mess, with so many cooks, and what a waste of time for Thailand. I hope we get 3G, but I doubt it with the people in CAT and True in play, with their own agenda, not the nation’s agenda!

Impatient Scandinavian

Chon Buri