An example to follow

Meechai Burapa was selective in historical facts. He missed out the prior event on November 8, 1947, when a successful coup was initiated, forcing Pridi into exile. Then in 1949 a failed counter-coup was staged by friends of Pridi (naval forces). It was not these two events that were referred to.

Thereafter, Pridi had the chance to come home. He declined, even though there was no further risk to him. He thought his presence in Thailand could cause ill-feeling and conflict, since some elite people still suspected him as a staunch communist. It was this same sacrifice that Kanit pleaded for from Thaksin. Even the Senate speaker also called for this statesmanship, since this is the best and quickest route to peace.

Unesco in 2000 named Pridi one of the “world’s great personalities” of the 20th century. May he rest in peace!

Songdej Praditsmanont

Bangkok