Path to democracy is via debate, not derision

It seems to me that Vint Chavala’s criticism of the Nitirat group is rather excessive. The 1932 provisional Constitution aspired to the principle of democracy, and the 1946 Constitution enshrined it, with both Houses of Parliament consisting entirely of elected members. Unfortunately, both constitutions were quickly thrown out by military coups, and it’s been a rocky road to real democracy for Thailand ever since.

The writer is of course correct when he points out that a new constitution by itself will not heal all of Thailand’s ills, but the Nitirat Group cannot wave a magic wand and make all these ills disappear. Their proposals do not of course appeal to everyone, but they are focusing on one issue which they believe can make their country fairer and more democratic, and their proposals seem worthy of mature debate, rather than attracting derision.

It is also fitting that the group is based at Thammasat University, which was founded by Pridi Banomyomg not just as an institution of higher education, but also to promote the understanding of democracy amongst the Thai people. 

Robin Grant

Bangkok