Influence of the Foreign Correspondents’ Club is waning
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Re: “Kicking out the foreign press will come back to haunt us”, Editorial, February 28.
I agree with your editorial that a free and independent media environment would generate a positive atmosphere for Thailand – and the military junta should realise this.
It is a fact that the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand (FCCT) is a venue for vibrant debate. Prominent foreign figures often make a stop at the club to voice their opinions.
However, after watching the FCCT closely, I have noticed that some members have shown themselves to be extremely partial against Thailand.
For example, Jakrapob Penkair had to resign as a minister in the Samak Sundaravej government because it was found that, a year prior to taking office, he allegedly committed lese majeste while answering provocative questions from members after his speech at the FCCT. Jakrapob had to flee the country to escape arrest and is still at large.
More recently a foreign diplomat from a superpower committed a faux pas in responding to FCCT members’ tempting questions. He said he had talked to the Thai junta about returning democracy, and was hoping he would not have to do it in a “finger-wagging way” in the future.
The Prayut government should leave the FCCT alone: The club’s influence and respectability are already waning.
Vint Chavala
