Coup-makers must realise authority is earned, not given
The news that the prime minister’s brother appointed his son an Army officer offers another example of deep-rooted nepotism in Thai culture. When the leadership of this government overthrew an elected government two years ago, nepotism and corruption were
When a scandal regarding an Army-sponsored park near Hua Hin surfaced, there was little public surprise. Many, though, did raise an eyebrow when a military-appointed probe found no evidence of wrongdoing, which prompted widespread accusations of a whitewash.
Now officials tell us that the appointment of the PM’s nephew was lawful under the authority of the defence minister – who just happens to be the appointee’s father. After that official explanation, the prime minister might not be able to say much about the issue in his weekly televised address.
This leaves the unfortunate impression that he is little different than his predecessor, Thaksin Shinawatra, who appointed his brother-in-law as Army chief.
It has been said that authority is earned, not given. If the premier wants people to respect him, he must earn that privilege. He will certainly not do so by permitting his brother to appoint his son to the officer corps.
The Insider
