Junta must extend olive branch or face explosion
The military government is chiefly concerned with peace and security, its aim undoubtedly to nip any dissension in the bud before it escalates into something bigger. Hence the seemingly strong-arm suppression of a bunch of students.
But how does the government suppress the thoughts of Pheu Thai supporters who number in the millions? It has mentioned the need for reconciliation, but as far as I can tell this is not working out.
The government’s current plan seems to be to hold on to the reins of power for as long as possible. The Meechai-authored constitution provides for a powerful appointed Senate and the possibility of a non-elected prime minister. The planning horizon is five years (or perhaps 20). Even if nothing untoward happens during that time, which I strongly doubt, what happens after that?
The communists in Russia and China tried to suppress religion for half a century without success. My fear is that the longer the government keeps dissent bottled up, the more unattractive things will be when it is released. What is more, it will have to keep applying greater pressure to keep things under control. The government has so far been quite benign and enlightened for a military dictatorship, but how long can it keep that up?
A better way is to recognise there are shades of grey and that the government’s version of the truth might not be what is best for the long term. Reach out to the Pheu Thai supporters – not all want to burn down buildings, undermine the monarchy and kowtow to Thaksin Shinawatra. Talk to their leaders, address some of their grievances, extend an olive branch and be willing to compromise. The peace you obtain will be long-lasting. It is not too late.
Kemadist Chiaracharuwat
