More context needed before criticism
As a Thai, I am thankful to the ambassadors of 22 Western countries and the head of the European Union delegation for expressing their concerns about the current political situation in Thailand in a statement under their combined endorsement.
As you can see, Thailand has the potential to become a proud democracy just like any other country in the world. The country’s news media are more robust and replete with freedom than those in most other countries in this region; the majority of Thais also strive for a political system that is best for our future generations – just like most people elsewhere.
However, political corruption in Thailand during the past 15 years has reached the point that the country could turn bankrupt if something was not done to stem – if not stop – it. Thai politicians of the recent past were not only capable of bilking their country through corruption in a big way, they were also well-versed in their attempts to destabilise, split and cause their country to lose its sovereignty eventually. Worse, some Western countries have also provided financial and residential help and encouragement for these fugitive politicians – when they sought shelter from Thai laws as a result of their own unacceptable behaviour at home. Hence, we Thais will be full of gratitude if you will help us with fairness and understanding in mind. We also hope this letter will help your excellencies gain more understanding of our nation – especially in the context of democracy and freedom of speech against peaceful coexistence and reconciliation, with the country’s sovereignty as the most important thing on everyone’s mind.
Vint Chavala
