Nation editorial could mislead foreign readers
I write in response to your newspaper [the Korea Herald]’s reprint of The Nation’s editorial entitled “A general assembly in the generals’ shadow” on August 29.
The article raised a number of criticisms of the political situation in Thailand, many of which are one-sided and could potentially mislead your readers.
First, the article mentioned that “nearly 2,000 critics of military rule stood trial in military courts” since the government took office in 2014. In fact, over 93 per cent of these offences involved possession and use of heavy firearms, ammunition and explosive substances.
Crucially, defendants in the [military] court enjoy the same rights as those who appear in civilian ones, as guaranteed by the Criminal Procedure Code. The general public is allowed to observe the trials, as it has done on several occasions, ensuring transparency.
Since September 12, several categories of cases have been returned to the jurisdiction of civilian courts, a move that earned applause from the United Nations’ Human Rights Office for South East Asia and the International Commission of Jurists.
Second, the article’s allusion to “a succession of pleas to restore civilian rule quickly” could lead to misinterpretation that the government intends to stay in power for an indefinite period. In fact, Thailand is committed to a road map towards democracy, with general elections due in the latter part of next year. Meanwhile the government is implementing a series of wide-ranging reforms to secure an equitable and sustainable future for all. Over 190 new laws have been put into effect. They enable Thailand to better combat corruption, rights violations, human trafficking, trans-national crimes and money laundering, to name just a few.
Third, the article indulged in a premature speculation that the draft constitution will serve democracy poorly. The draft was a product of an extensive and inclusive process of hearings, public seminars and debates. Its underlying principles are to protect public interest, create a fair and just society and safeguard the rights and liberties of the people. Most importantly, it received overwhelming support from the people in the August 7 referendum. No one should disregard the will and wishes of Thais in deciding their own future.
I hope that these information and updates will help you grasp a more balanced and complete picture of the situation in Thailand.
Sek Wannamethee
Director-general of the Dept of Information,
Foreign Ministry,
Bangkok
