Three facts all foreigners should know about Thai politics
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Re: “What has improved since the coup?” Letters, April 17.
Some foreigners think they know better about Thailand than we Thais do. However, by observing more carefully, they would realise certain facts that might cause them to think twice.
l Responsible Thais are worried less about the military staying in power a few more years than about having corrupt politicians bankrupt public morality and our country.
Thais have driven military governments out of power before, in 1973 and 1992. However, we will choose to use such means only when necessary.
l The concern of the responsible half of the population is that, like Adolf Hitler, political demagogues could rise to power through an election, but then indoctrinate people against the country’s age-old traditions and eventually undermine our sovereignty.
l The way out of our current political malaise would be fairly simple if a few powerful people adapted to the situation. For example, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha should agree to have open and constructive talks with politicians concerning the future of the country and the form of democratic governance.
Meanwhile Thaksin Shinawatra should agree to leave Thai politics alone. He should stop thinking only of himself and start contributing to the country – starting from today.
Vint Chavala
