FRIDAY, March 29, 2024
nationthailand

Three fingers of change better than middle finger of status quo

Three fingers of change better than middle finger of status quo

Re: “Thais should be wary of foreign-aided democracy trap”, Have your Say, yesterday.

“This is unprecedented, as diplomatic protocol dictates that foreign governments and organisations avoid being seen as trespassing on their host country’s internal affairs”, says Vint Chavala, who can be relied upon to express the mindset of status quo-loving, older educated Thais.
Governments and organisations have been messing about in Thailand’s internal affairs since time immemorial. Mr Vint also says the military can be relied upon to protect national borders and restore “normalcy”. The drug problem, sex trafficking, human trafficking, the wildlife trade, and timber smuggling are cross-border phenomena. How can this be called protection, except in the sense of corruption-related monies?
As to normalcy, perhaps the status quo, otherwise known as institutionalised corruption, is preferred by older educated Thais, but their fear of the three-fingered salute is well founded. Things will change whether you like it or not. Great improvements often are preceded by uncomfortable disruptions, are they not? Besides an occasional three fingers are better than one raised in your face 24/7.
Katniss Mango

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