Thailand in Turmoil

[Skywatcher]

Sky, what junta? This is not Myanmar.

Although he has some faults, Thaksin was democratically elected twice, and was disposed as PM while in office. He is now in excile.

The current PM Abhisit has not been elected at an election. It is not sure how much he can control the army.

The Thai people have very high regard for the King. He has called for unity.

Oh sorry, sir, I was talking about the junta in Burma. I always refer to them as the junta

Abhisit could certainly wag the dog and lord knows there is enough bad blood between the two nations given border disputes and the Karen refugees. I was thinking of the recent flare up in Kokang.

[Merlin]

The 'Red Shirt' rally on Sunday is postponed to a date after a new law on military action expires. Analysis think Thaksin wants to force a new election which his Party is expected to win.

Thai "red shirts" postpone anti-government rally

BANGKOK, Aug 29 (Reuters) - "Red shirt" supporters of ousted Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra have postponed Sunday's planned rally outside the office of Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva because of a tight security law passed this week.

The United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) said it would hold the rally on Sept. 5, four days after the new law expires, instead.

The law passed on Tuesday allows the military to act fast if protests turn violent, without declaring a state of emergency. At least 5,000 troops were on standby ahead of the rally. ....

The prospect of more demonstrations will add to fears of an escalation in Thailand's four-year political crisis, and may dent the confidence of investors and tourists, hampering Abhisit's efforts to revive the economy. ...

Abhisit told reporters the security law would remain effective until Tuesday, and the government would discuss what to do with it at a cabinet meeting the same day.....

The UDD's three-week occupation of the seat of government in April led to Thailand's worst street violence in 17 years, forcing Abhisit to call a state of emergency, triggering concern about the stability of Southeast Asia's second-biggest economy.....

Analysts say Thaksin is seeking to discredit Abhisit and his squabbling coalition to force new elections, which the pro-Thaksin Puea Thai party is widely expected to win, albeit without an outright majority. ...

[Merlin]

Southern Thailand’s Turmoil Grows

4 Sept [NYTimes] PAKA LUE SONG, Thailand - .... Paka Lue Song, only a 15-minute drive from the provincial capital, Pattani, is a starting point for Thailand’s influx of troops into the country’s troubled southern provinces, where ethnic Malay Muslims are battling for autonomy from Thailand’s Buddhist majority.

The number of people in security forces, including the army, the police and militias, in the region has doubled over the past two years to about 60,000, said Srisompob Jitpiromsri, a leading expert on the insurgency and the associate dean at Prince of Songkla University in Pattani.

The huge increase in security forces initially helped reduce the violence as well as the death toll, which fell by 40 percent last year. But the number of killings has risen in recent months. More than 330 people have been killed so far this year, compared with 285 in the same period last year. Among the dead are civilians — including many Malays — soldiers and insurgents.

There have been so many killings in the three southern provinces — about 3,500 since 2004 — that the government began distributing a glossy brochure last year guiding victims’ families through the process of applying for government compensation.

Although the insurgency has been active for decades in the south, the current phase is considered particularly dangerous because the militants appear to have more of an Islamist agenda and because apparently sectarian attacks have strained the mutual tolerance between Buddhists and Muslims. It also comes at a time of deep political turmoil and social unease in Thailand that has hobbled several governments in the last three years and last year drove away many of the tourists who help sustain the country’s economy.

The surge in troops is palpable across the three southern provinces, only a few hours’ drive from Thailand’s main tourist beaches. There is now the equivalent of one soldier or police officer for every seven households. Soldiers in Humvees patrol the main roads, and police and military checkpoints screen motorists every few miles.

The insurgency has been distinct from other rebel movements in the region because the perpetrators remain shadowy, ill-defined groups that do not claim responsibility for the violence. Experts say they believe that the aims of the groups, among them the Pattani Islamic Mujahedeen Movement and the National Revolution Front-Coordinate, are to drive Buddhists from the area, discredit the government and put into place strict Islamic laws.

Although they say they believe that some financing for the groups comes from abroad, several counterterrorism experts in Thailand and elsewhere discount significant connections with other militant movements, like Al Qaeda and the Indonesian group Jemaah Islamiyah. The movement here, they say, appears to involve a localized struggle over territory and control overlaid with historical resentment over the domination of the Thai state.

Malay Muslims make up about 80 percent of the 1.7 million people living in Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala Provinces. ....

[Merlin]

This is two weeks before a major protest by supporters of oustered premier Thaksin. It is a wrong time to put the national police chief under pressure leading to his resignation.

Tension as under-fire Thai police chief quits

6 hrs ago [AFP] BANGKOK — Thailand's national police chief resigned on Wednesday, days after an anti-graft body held him responsible for deadly clashes between anti-government protesters and police last year.

General Patcharawat Wongsuwan handed in his resignation to Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva just hours after the premier shifted him to a desk job, following months of trying to remove the senior policeman.

But his resignation is likely to create tensions between the police force and the government less than two weeks before a major protest by supporters of ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra.

The National Anti-Corruption Commission ruled on Monday that Patcharawat violated criminal law during a crackdown on anti-Thaksin "Yellow Shirt" demonstrators who surrounded parliament in October 2008. .....

Abhisit has already tried to remove Patacharawat several times and has been at odds with his allies in the ruling coalition over the appointment of a new chief to replace him.

He has accused Patcharawat, the younger brother of defence minister Prawit Wongsuwan, of obstructing an investigation into the attempted assassination of the leader of the "Yellow Shirt" movement in April. ....

The government is now likely to have fears about the commitment of the security forces to tackling protests by pro-Thaksin "Red Shirts" set for September 19, the third anniversary of the military coup that ousted Thaksin.

Thaksin himself is a former policeman. ....

[Merlin]

Today, Sept 19, is the 3rd anniversary of a military coup, and is day the red-shirt protesters are gathering.

Why Thai protesters are taking to the streets again

Antigovernment activists plan to defy a tough security law to rally Saturday on the third anniversary of a military coup.

19 Sept [CSMonitor] Bangkok, Thailand - Antigovernment protesters are gathering Saturday in Bangkok to mark the third anniversary of a military coup against former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. At least 30,000 are likely to attend the rally, defying the use of a tough internal security law that allows troops to make arrests.

The protesters will wear red shirts and voice support for Mr. Thaksin, who is living in exile. In April, armed troops put down violent protests in Bangkok by the red shirts after they had disrupted a regional summit. Some of the leaders of the movement face criminal charges.

Last year saw rival yellow-shirted protesters occupy government buildings and two airports. That group has since formed a political party and is loosely aligned with Prime Minister Abhisit Vejajjiva, who took office last December after the courts dissolved a pro-Thaksin administration.

Since the coup, Thailand has been held hostage by its fractious politics, to the alarm of the US, a longtime ally. Its Army is also battling a growing Muslim-led insurgency in its southernmost provinces.

What do the protesters want and how much support do they have?
They have called for Mr. Abhisit to dissolve parliament and hold elections. More broadly, the leaders say they are fighting for social justice and accuse powerful elites in Bangkok of undermining democracy.

The red-shirt movement isn't well organized and relies heavily on Thaksin's popularity to galvanize supporters. But it has tapped into the anger among rural and working-class voters over the coup and subsequent events. A recent petition for a royal pardon for Thaksin got 3.5 million signatures.

Analysts say pro-Thaksin lawmakers would probably win if elections were held today. At the last elections in December 2007, the now-defunct People's Power Party won 233 out of 480 seats in parliament.

The reds lost credibility, though, when the April protests descended into chaos. Some liberals are turned off by Thaksin, a billionaire businessman who won landslide election victories in 2001 and 2005. Last year he was convicted of abusing power, and his two terms were shadowed by human-rights abuses.

After nearly four years of upheaval, Thais are disenchanted by politics in general: only 31 percent think the country is moving in the right direction, according to a survey by the Asia Foundation.

Who was behind last year's protests? Could they start again?
The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) wears royalist yellow and was formed in 2006, when Thaksin was in power. Its leaders include a media tycoon, a former mayor, and a trade unionist. Its followers are mostly conservatives who fear losing privileges under strong elected governments.

Last year, the PAD held nonstop protests for several months. It draws support from the upper and middle classes in Bangkok and southern Thailand (though not the insurgency zone), as well as from individuals in the palace, military, and civil service. While largely peaceful, it had armed security guards.

The protests peaked with the weeklong seizure of Bangkok's two airports. After the courts dissolved the government, the PAD told its supporters to go home. It later registered its own New Politics party.

In April, PAD leader Sondhi Limthongkul survived an assassination attempt that he blamed on rogue Army officers. No arrests have been made.

The PAD has organized its own, smaller protest Saturday – hundreds of miles from Bangkok on the disputed Thai-Cambodia border. The PAD accuses Cambodia of usurping Thai territory around a temple, an issue it also used last year to stir up nationalist sentiments against the pro-Thaksin government.

How strong is the current prime minister?
A UK-educated economist, Abhisit has support from influential business groups that have applauded his government's ability to ramp up spending in a weak economy. After facing down the protests in April with minimal bloodshed, Abhisit got a boost in the polls.

But his six-party coalition is beset by infighting and minor scandals. In recent weeks, he has struggled to assert his authority over the selection of a new police chief, exposing his weak hand. Analysts say Abhisit needs a proper electoral mandate to shore up his political capital.

An election is risky, though, as long as pro-Thaksin parties hold sway over the populous north and northeast. Minor coalition parties also want to stay in power long enough to benefit from stimulus spending that can be diverted into campaign funds. ....

Where do the military and the monarchy stand?
The military supports Abhisit. But its loyalty can't be counted on. There are also splits within the military over how to deal with Thaksin, whom they deposed in 2006 on the grounds of corruption, abuse of power, and offenses to the monarchy.

The military remains the power behind the government. Last year, it defied an elected government by refusing to disperse the PAD protests at the airports. Military chiefs called publicly for the prime minister to resign.

Analysts say civilian rule has been severely weakened by the coup and subsequent events. The officer corps still believes that it knows best when it comes to running Thailand, says Chris Baker, a historian in Bangkok. ....

The crown remains the linchpin of Thai politics. The frailty of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest-serving monarch, has intensified the struggle for power, as his designated successor, Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, lacks his stature and experience.

Some red shirts are dismissive of the monarchy and its meddling in politics, though strict defamation laws prevent public debate. Senior royals were believed to have backed the PAD.

How is this affecting the economy and tourism?
The economy is shrinking but is expected to show a recovery by year-end, in line with other export-led Asian economies. The official estimate is a contraction of between 2.5 and 3.5 percent.

Government spending is fueling the recovery, but private investment remains weak. However, Thailand's banks and large companies remain solvent as their balance sheets are relatively conservative.

Tourism has taken a severe hit from the global slowdown, H1N1 flu, and fears over security for travelers, particularly in Bangkok. Many luxury hotels in the capital are running at below 50 percent occupancy. Overall visitor numbers dropped by around 20 percent in the first six months of the year.

Last year tourism was worth around $17 billion, or 6 percent of GDP. It also employs millions of people, many in small businesses that are the lifeblood of the Thai economy.

[Merlin]

The pro-Thaksin red-shirt protest had been announced beforehand. But why is there another protest, by the PAD yellow-shirts on the same day?

And as the latter are not really against the current government, why are they protesting on the same day when the PM is away at the UN assembly like 3 years ago when the then PM Thaksin went on the same UN trip ?

To stir up another military coup?

Thailand weathers protests

20 Sept THAILAND - The country was hit by two mass protests yesterday when about 20,000 anti-government red shirts held a rally in Bangkok and thousands of the rival yellow shirts marched towards a disputed border area near Si Sa Ket.

The Bangkok protest was generally peaceful although it was disrupted by a heavy downpour.

However, the march by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) to a cliff next to the disputed area near the Preah Vihear temple led to a clash between the yellow shirts and local villagers, who said they feared the protest would further sour ties with Cambodia.

The red shirts gathered at the Royal Plaza to mark the third anniversary of the military coup that ousted the government of Thaksin Shinawatra, who is now a fugitive overseas. ....

[Merlin]

The unstable political division in Thailand is still not well resolved. But a number of high level political summit are being held in Thailand as it is the current chair of the Association ASEAN. The next one is the summit of ASEAN plus 6 later in October.

Thailand mobilising 18,000-strong force at Asian summit

9 Oct [AsiaOne] BANGKOK - Thailand announced plans Friday to mobilise a 18,000-strong security force at a meeting of Southeast Asian leaders this month to prevent anti-government protests.

The summit of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and six dialogue partners - China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand - takes place in the coastal resort of Hua Hin on October 23-25.

Supporters of ousted Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra, known as the "Red Shirts", stormed the last summit in the beach town of Pattaya in April, forcing some regional leaders to flee the venue in helicopters.
The meeting had been postponed from December and moved out of its original location in Bangkok after rival demonstrators from the anti-Thaksin "Yellow Shirt" movement blockaded the capital's airports.

Intent on preventing a repeat of the embarrassing chaos, Thailand - which remains deeply politically divided - is invoking heavy security measures at the upcoming summit, including a harsh internal security law. ....

While the Red Shirts have not yet indicated whether they will target the summit, it is considered unlikely as Hua Hin is the site of one of the main palaces of Thailand's widely revered king.

But Panitan said they had received intelligence reports that some other groups, such as environmental activists, could be planning rallies during the meeting. ....

[Merlin]

The uncertainty over the political stability of Thailand is still not resolved after so many months, actually since the military ouster of the then Prime Minister Thaksin in 2006.

Thai Protesters to Target Bangkok’s Main Roads, Risking Clash

March 11 (Bloomberg) -- Thai anti-government protesters plan to march on major roads in Bangkok tomorrow, risking a confrontation with security forces charged with preventing them from paralyzing traffic.

Members of the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship intends to march on main traffic arteries, said Weng Tojirakarn, a protest leader. The group plans to gather at five locations in Bangkok at noon tomorrow and assemble 1 million people to pressure Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to call an election.

Violent protests that began with plans similar to tomorrow’s have depressed stocks and hurt consumer confidence since the military ousted fugitive ex-leader Thaksin Shinawatra In 2006. His supporters say appointed judges, soldiers and bureaucrats have undermined the wishes of voters. ....

[Bigfella]

The uncertainty over the political stability of Thailand is still not resolved after so many months, actually since the military ouster of the then Prime Minister Thaksin in 2006.

Thai Protesters to Target Bangkok’s Main Roads, Risking Clash

The foolishness of that decision in 2006 becomes clearer by the day. The King is old and ill, there is no guarantee that his successor will enjoy the same respect & the country is probably more deeply divided that at any time since the early 70s. For all his flaws (and they were legion) Thaksin led a movement with that genuinely represents a large & generally overlooked segment of Thai society. if they decide that there is no hope at the ballot box then the drips of blood so far will become a flowing stream.

As a Thai freind of mine (and no fan of Thaksin) commented in 2006 "they (the generals) just set the country back 20 years". I hope it is only as bad as that.

[HillTribe]

I was in Bangkok during 2009 April when the ASEAN leaders had to be airlifted out of the summit venue when it was stormed by the Red Shirt protesters.

The divisions in the nation run deep. Even members of the same family, husband and wife, father and son stand on opposing sides. I love the Thai people and the country. The longer this political deadlock goes the harder it becomes for Thailand to solve its problems; and problems, there are many:

1. The king is old and feeble. His successor, the crown prince, is deeply unpopular.
2. Thaksin, although had lot of support from the rural areas, was was no saint himself and was involved in many shady business dealings.
3. The yellow shirt coup was orchestrated by the privileged ruling elite backed by the military who felt threated by Thaksin's growing popularity and populist programs. The Thai people claim that Abhisit Vejjajiva (the current Thai prime-minister) is just a puppet and the real powers lie behind the scene.
4. Then there is the grim (and ignored) specter of religious insurgency in South Thailand's Yala, Narathiwat and Pattani provinces.

The best thing for Thailand right now would probably be elections, free and fair. IMV Thaksin seems to be the lesser among all the evils...

[tankie]

Seems like the weekend will be decisive , i love Thailand and its friendly people as well , oppressed people and sadly very 3rd world , such a shame .




March 11, 2010

-Shinawatra family flees Thailand before rally

-Puea Thai MP Chalerm leaves for Singapore,
will return 'once tensions eased'...

-Thaksin urges supporters to join protest
"for the future of our children"

RSS news feed articles:
Arrow Thailand Classified Ads | BahtSOLD.com | Shinawatra clan flee Thailand before rally
Arrow Thailand Classified Ads | BahtSOLD.com | Major Puea Thai figures flee Thailand

Of mice and men...

Predictable headlines, meanwhile, where are Mr Thaksin's 'children' while he is imploring others to bring THEIR families to protest 'for OUR children' at the same time?

Unfortunately (predictably) concern for the 'potential' for violence at the red rally this weekend has been greatly increased with these anticipated developments.

Similar to last year's red-riots at Songkran, the Thaksin family are again jetted away to safety and first class comfort. All the while Mr Thaksin is (again) urging his poor (and poorly misguided) followers to bring THEIR families to protest...

Meanwhile, Chief of Mr Thaksin's Puea Thai MP's (the right honourable Mr Chalerm) has also left (for Singapore) stating he will return 'once tensions are eased'... Such brave leadership displayed from a man who reportedly desires to be Mr Thaksin's latest proxy replacement Prime Minister...

One wonders if proud and fearless father/mentor Chalerm has also taken care of his own 'kids' once again? A bit more background from this TIME article:

Arrow The Untouchables - TIME

(resulting in a new 'happy toilet' re-birth for the Chalerm boys, as most witnesses suffered from 'sudden memory-loss syndrome'...)

Double standards? Elites? Hypocrisy?

These are some of the orchestrated rallying cries from the red 'handlers' as the lower ranks receive marching orders from a rich-elite-criminal-hypocrite (and consummate coward).

One would dearly like to see the poor in Thailand get a REAL self-sustaining leg up (for once and for all). No more cycles of cynically piling on debt, then forgiving debt (for votes), all designed to keep poor villagers indebted to Mr Thaksin but never truly getting ahead (of course). Conveniently providing the perfect set-up for a self-serving megalomaniac autocrat. Nor does one wish to see the same poor 'used' to sacrifice their blood (or others) on the streets, ultimately to allow one man a chance to regain power and riches (while the masses stay 'conveniently' trapped to be re-used for the same purpose)

Elections or Red-Herring?

As stated before, the red-rally cry to call elections appears a complete red-herring (and the red leaders know it). Of course, they don't bother to explain to the red masses Mr Thaksin's Puea Thai Party could only win a MINORITY govt (again) and without a sizable coalition partner this time, they would be OUT in the first majority house vote.

Thus, this is *NOT* about elections (nor democracy) and the man who controls the strings and purse-strings knows he must overthrow the govt using any and ALL 'other' means. This is the ONLY way he can reverse convictions, reverse fortunes, exact revenge and MOST importantly create a chance to double-up depleted accounts...

Potential for violence

One can now say with certainty there will be some violent incidents starting this weekend, most likely on Sunday evening and into Monday.

There are indications attempts to block strategic intersections in and around Bangkok may take place earlier than Sunday. However, it's unlikely this tactic may work until the reds can amass more 'boots on the ground' by Sunday. If they attempt this strategy prematurely with limited numbers, look for citizens trying to make their way through Bangkok to react 'strongly'.

Hot spots to avoid

Expats and tourists will NOT be 'targeted' (of course) but especially from this Sunday it's best to stay off main Bangkok streets and avoid downtown shopping centres. This is NOT to say shopping centres will be targeted either, rather it's just common sense to ensure one isn't accidentally caught up in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Expats and Tourists in Bangkok

If you're an Expat living in Bangkok, perhaps best to stay home this Sunday and keep a safe eye on events. If you're a tourist already in Bangkok and booked into a hotel, best stay in the hotel on Sunday and do likewise.

Arriving Sunday?

If you're flying in on Sunday, best to check the latest news developments and if there are any signs of violence, avoid travelling into the city.

Taxis may also be scarce (70% of drivers are said to be attending the rally) and some main roads/intersections will likely be blocked by security or reds (or both in some cases). There are hotels near the airport and bus/van service to Pattaya and points east if needing an alternative.

Will the airport be over-run by reds? Not likely, but possibly only in a last-ditch attempt scenario (ie; if all else fails) but one expects this contingency will be prepared for this time around (thankfully).

Truth has no colour

Speaking of airport closures, some readers may take umbrage and wish to believe this is being written by a 'yellow' shirt. However, long-time readers will know this writer has also taken the 'yellows' to task over their past actions. This writer is simply part of the 'white-shirt' majority who are completely fed up with 'colourful' protests by all hues (and coups as well).

Last 'hurrah'?

With the economy showing signs of improvement in several sectors along with consistent gains in GDP and jobs, Mr Thaksin may not have many more opportunities to amass (or instigate some might say) such an 'uprising'. But as long as Mr Thaksin has funds, he will likely never cease his attempts to 're-coup' losses and gain a chance to double-up.

It's sadly ironic, the man who wishes to 'return to help Thailand' seems bent on first pitting citizen against citizen and possibly destroying the country, to reach his true goals...

If even one man, woman, or heaven forbid child is hurt (or worse) in one man's never-ending megalomaniac lust for greed and power, Mr Thaksin will have blood on his hands (yet again).

Win or lose, sleep well

Mai pen rai, 'win or lose' and regardless of loss of life or limb of his supporters and innocents on the streets of Thailand, Mr Thaksin and his family will be secure, sleeping in first class comfort and safety, far, far away.

This tells everything one needs to know about the character of a man who also has the gall to liken his struggle to Nelson Mandela...

What to expect this weekend?

First, a fresh quote from Puea Thai MP and red co-leader Natthawut:

"Changing Thailand means changing the regime of government. The government must be made to face the fact that it cannot maintain law and order and thus will have to dissolve the House"

According to every poll, we already know Puea Thai could only form a minority govt (again). But this time without a main coalition partner they wouldn't survive a house vote. Thus, elections cannot be the 'real' aim here (which Mr Thaksin and the Puea Thai/Red Leaders must be FULLY aware of).

Therefore, in order to be 'successful' in 'changing the regime of government', chaos would have to be created. As red co-leader Natthawut states the 'government must be made to face the fact that it cannot maintain law and order'.

To this end, apart from a main unpredictable rally, several pockets of street riots would have to occur simultaneously in Bangkok (and in towns up-country) along with small explosions, fires, traffic blockades etc in strategic locations, giving the apparent desired Red/Thaksin impression that the govt 'cannot maintain law and order'.

How big will the 'rally' be?

The size of the rally 'could' possibly near 100,000 this time, due to the seeming 'do or die' timing of events (but the promised 1,000,000 is not remotely possible).

Judging from last April's red-riots, the majority non-core rally goers would likely melt away (punch the time-clock) again overnight Sunday, leaving a core group of somewhere between 10-30,000 this time around. The core group will have to be corralled and this may take a bit longer than last time. They could be more spread around the city and in greater #s than last time out.

Who's on-side?

Besides containing any unrest in Bangkok, there will likely be several up-country hot-spots to deal with and many local Thaksin-loyal authorities may not be very obliging (or worse), acerbating the situation.

Also, the majority of police are reportedly Thaksin supporters (afterall, who better to 'serve and protect' their mutual ways...) Plus, with PM Abhisit essentially sacking some top-cops over alleged bribes for promotions, they too may not be very helpful (again).

The armed forces themselves are split as well, with several influential retired Generals signing on to Mr Thaksin's Puea Thai Party in recent months. This and other influential loyalty factors could become a key element of how events evolve. This is a wee bit worrying, however, like last Songkhran, one suspects they won't have the numbers for what would be a messy re-coup (or worse, potentially with split security factions facing off).

How long will the 'rally' last?

Despite the potential to create unrest on many fronts, one has faith the govt is prepared to handle the situation under very difficult circumstances and will ultimately prevail. All should hopefully be wrapped up (or at the least contained) by mid to late next week and one sincerely hopes for a minimum of injuries or worse (some causalities may be more Red leaders and Puea Thai MP's becoming 'honourary' citizens of Cambodia...)

Last word on developments to this minute is from a following Thai press commentary:

"Although Thaksin is the one crying out to be "saved", it's his country that needs all the help it can get"... Exclamation

Hear, hear.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS:

All latest developments will be monitored closely this weekend and will be updated below on THIS thread.

Those who followed the updates here from last Songkran will know all news sources will be monitored and all updates will be quickly posted in a calm, rational and hopefully objective manner.

As one who loves Thailand and despite the increasingly worrying signs, here's hoping the coming rallies may yet go off peacefully. Idea

Ed
--------

Edit to add: This site does not seek to cynically make revenue by stirring up or 'creating' sensationalised headlines (like another Thailand site). Also, this site does not seek to gain revenue based on useless 'page views' of sponsors banners like the other site. Why anyone would sponsor a site which seems to exist primarily to bash Thailand (for profit) remains a mystery, albeit apparently a profitable one (at least for that site, and one assumes their sponsor advertisers don't mind getting regularly ridiculed and bashed from its members, along with receiving little returns;)

To 'sum-up', THIS site will send as FEW breaking news updates as possible and only to assist viewers who have an interest in Thailand, or have loved ones here, or business, or those who just have a love of Thailand and will be rightfully concerned.

If you're seeking information as events unfold, all updates will be posted here. However, if one is seeking multiple pages of almost pure vitriol, perhaps sign up for that site which is desperately seeking subscriptions for its 49 baht per month 'GOOD News for Expats' plan... Embarassed

Meanwhile, this site remains free and completely focused on providing accurate information from multiple sources for concerned viewers as key events unfold.

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retirewise



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PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 7:39 am Post subject: YOU ARE MISGUIDED Reply with quote
What a bunch of of yellow livered, yellow bellied, yellow loving bullshit.

When you leave our great country, I hope you take all of your (2 or 3), or probably you don't have any REAL THAI FRIENDS, yellow money grubbing, lying friends with you.

We love our Prime Minister Taksin, that's why WE voted for him and will vote for him AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!
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aznyron



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PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 7:44 am Post subject: Reply with quote
As a expat who has been living in Thailand for 5 years I have not seen the new Government do any thing for the rice farmer except exploit them at least the exiled PM gave them health care and low % loans sorry your article is full of crap
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joshua



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PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 8:39 am Post subject: taksin Reply with quote
I personally dont like taksin etc. but I think delivering news is a art form of staying neutral. I wish baht sold did that in the future. then we can make up our own minds after getting the facts. : )
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BahtandSold
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PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 8:55 am Post subject: Re: taksin Reply with quote
Ed:

Well, so far so good. If the detractors would take the time to do so, please point out the exact references you disagree with, this would be appreciated.

Again, not a 'yellow', not a 'red', not for airport closures or coups as is well documented. And after years of instigated unrest, very tired of protests by any and all sides.

Might add, good to see no viewers are at all concerned at the potential for unrest or worse this weekend and apparently believe all will be 100% peaceful... sincerely hope you are right Exclamation
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Glyn



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PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 9:09 am Post subject: Reply with quote
I'm no Taksin supporter, yes he did more for the poor than any of the rich, elite of this country ever will, remember Taksin is rich but he "ain't one of them" and so he wasn't allowed to be corrupt and line his pockets, but all politicians, top ranking Police and military are all at it. So what was the difference, that's right "he wasn't one of them"!

So yes the red shirts are mad to do his dirty work, yes his motives are pure greed, yes this article is written by a yellow shit supporter, but this government is a farce, they got there by 1st using the military back door to over-run the Taksin government, when they lost the vote they kept sacking parties and members through kangaroo courts until they had the majority vote in the house. The obvious thing to do would be to call a general election, that's what any normal government/country would do, so they are obviously still afraid they may lose the vote/power.

This country will never change it is full of power crazy corrupt officials in every aspect of life here, from the top down, and they only have one general goal - keep the poor poor, "cos I just love it when I click my fingers and all the traffic stops and how everyone bows and whays me as I go by". I feel sorry for these inocent, poor, uneducated people they have no chance to move up in life as long as there is greed and power running the country
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joshua



Joined: 17 Apr 2006
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Location: koh samui

PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 9:13 am Post subject: Re: taksin Reply with quote
I sure hope for a peaceful weekend : ) dont think blood will change anything. thanks for keeping us posted and updated for free.
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jowunger



Joined: 19 Dec 2005
Posts: 27


PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 10:18 am Post subject: Re: YOU ARE MISGUIDED Reply with quote
retirewise wrote:
What a bunch of of yellow livered, yellow bellied, yellow loving bullshit.

When you leave our great country, I hope you take all of your (2 or 3), or probably you don't have any REAL THAI FRIENDS, yellow money grubbing, lying friends with you.

We love our Prime Minister Taksin, that's why WE voted for him and will vote for him AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!


We do NOT NEED RED, YELLOW or any other damn shitty color in Thailand. WE NEED PEACE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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ONEMOREFARANG



Joined: 27 Nov 2008
Posts: 1


PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 12:27 pm Post subject: As one fortunate farang who lives in the northeast among Reply with quote
aznyron wrote:
As a expat who has been living in Thailand for 5 years I have not seen the new Government do any thing for the rice farmer except exploit them at least the exiled PM gave them health care and low % loans sorry your article is full of crap
.
My apology for my inexperience in forum speak and errors in previous submissions !

As I attempted to relate....... I live in the northeast amongst rice farmers. That same population is the theoretical support for dear Mr Thaksin. The help referred to that he gave was not given at all in real terms. For every baht offered another went in the back pocket! And those cheap loans? Never expected to be paid back .... just a perpetual grasp on voters ! The Health Care? That was nation wide was it not? And originally called the 35 Bht program? Now is free ! Supported still because it is a good thing, not neccesarily to retain "populist" appeal!

Government guaranteed minimum prices for product is exploitation?

The new regime has not trumpeted a renewed loan scheme....it has actively sought to offer cheap loans on prudent terms. To promote proper continuous local development and to help ease previous lenders out of loan deals from loan sharks. Which is more than the previous efforts which only succeeded in increasing Thai whisky sales because the amounts were not useful enough for more!

The perception that a majority of Issan support the previous regime is only due to the squeaky wheel syndrome suffered by a desperate few! Why do the majority not get heard? Because they are busy with the harsher reality of life.And because they would prefer to avoid the aggressive attention of scarlet henchmen! Yes, they do fear! Night violence does occur! Is that a good move by would be Fascists??

Debate and comment occur daily about Mr Thaksin & Co. But positive opinion about same is rare to hear! Apathy is the enemy but no one person can alter that in any hurry! Crying or Very sad But sadly is possible that reaction against the rainbow effect will be with justifiable wrath!

Personally I find it impossible to find any sympathy for people who would encourage violent puplic terrorisation and hide when it starts! And whatever colour the shirt those sort wear I can only see as dirty! Mad
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BahtandSold
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PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 2:19 pm Post subject: Re: Red-shirt rally Thailand - LATEST UPDATES from Bangkok Reply with quote
Ed update:
March 12, 2010 (2:15 pm)

The latest reports have it that the protesters are few in number (as expected for Friday) and will cease activities at 5 pm today and then 're-group' on Sunday.

Meanwhile, pockets of red-shirts may be seen 'canvassing' for supporters in the Sukhumvit area and others this afternoon.

The bulk of the protesters from the North and NE are reportedly setting off today and will join up with the rally on Sunday.

Thus, as indicated earlier, Sunday will be the 'official' start.

The UN has announced it is closing its offices in Bangkok this Monday. Expect more to follow suit. Thai Airways will close its Silom offices and requests passengers arrive 3 hours in advance for Suvarnabhumi Airport check-ins.

There were a series of small explosions reported in Surat Thani earlier today. Thankfully no injuries and only minor damage was reported. It is useless to speculate on responsibility as the details are vague.
--------

*Only 'main' updates/developments will be posted here (for now). Also, only in the event a situation evolves which may directly affect public safety would an alert be sent.

One wishes both protesters and security forces a peaceful rally with no provocation or harm.

Ed
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BahtandSold
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PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 4:55 pm Post subject: Re: Red-shirt rally Thailand - LATEST UPDATES from Bangkok Reply with quote
Update:
Friday March 12, 4:30 pm

INN reports the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is stating Mr Thaksin may have left Dubai and they are checking rumors that he is on his way to Cambodia's Siem Reap province.

Before jumping to conclusions, it's worth noting both sides are engaged in PR spin and this is only a 'rumour' (originating from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs apparently).

Meanwhile, The Nation is reporting a 'source' as stating Mr Thaksin has actually been in Cambodia for a few days.

Undoubtedly Cambodia's Hun Sen and Mr Thaksin are 'reciprocal' allies but these 'reports' may or may not hold weight. More on this if, or as it comes available.

Ed
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pd_aeh



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PostPosted: Fri Mar 12, 2010 6:26 pm Post subject: Re: Red-shirt rally Thailand - LATEST UPDATES from Bangkok Reply with quote
We need peace.

No color

[Merlin]

This political uncertainty in Thailand still drags on and on and on. This is bad also for the image of the 10 nation ASEAN Association.

Thai unrest hovers over Southeast Asian summit

8 Apr Assoc Press Unrest in Thailand and controversy over Myanmar's elections are likely to overshadow a summit of 10 Southeast Asian leaders who had intended to focus on economic matters.

The summit was set to open in Hanoi on Thursday, one day after Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva declared a state of emergency in the face of escalating anti-government protests. At the last minute, he canceled his participation in the 16th annual summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

"The situation in Bangkok is worrying, and it's a somber backdrop to our discussions," Singaporean Foreign Minister George Yeo said. "I really hope that the situation there will not lead to violence."

Leaders from the 10 ASEAN nations were expected to focus on economic integration and climate change. ....

[MIKEMUN]

Quick update. The government closed an opposition aligned tv station, and in retaliation the protesters stormed a tv station used by the government. The government backed down and allowed the TV station they had closed earlier to start operating again.

Source..BBC. Sorry, I am using a phone, so can't post links.

[Bigfella]

The Violence gets Worse

This is just going to get worse. The people with the power don't plan to share it & the people who have been illegally forced out appear to be unprepared to accept it. And all of this with a Royal succession looming. Thailand is going to pay a terrible price for the unwillingness of certain segments of society to share power. Four years in and this has not even begun to get bad.

Thousands flee Bangkok
BEN DOHERTY, BANGKOK

April 11, 2010 - 10:51AM


Up to 15 people have been killed and thousands of tourists forced to flee, after Thai soldiers opened fire on red-shirt protesters in Bangkok in pitched battles all over the city.

After a month-long standoff between the anti-government red-shirts and Thai security forces, troops yesterday moved in to remove the red-shirts from the key intersections they’d occupied in the Thai capital.

But, meeting a resolute red-shirt army, the previously good-natured demonstrations suddenly turned violent.

Reports say up to 15 people were killed - a hospital spokesman last night confirmed 10 deaths - and more than 600 injured, after soldiers, who initially fired rubber bullets at protesters, began firing live rounds.

Four soldiers are believed to have been killed in the rioting and violence which followed. No Australians are among the dead or injured.

Some of the fiercest fighting occurred at the eastern end of famed tourist strip, Khao San Road, when riot police, backed by soldiers, attempted to push back red-shirt protesters from their base.

Nicholas Gilmore, 26, from Perth, said the red-shirt protesters refused and then, faced with advancing lines of police and soldiers, began throwing rocks and pieces of brick.

‘‘I was just standing there, taking pictures, then the guy near me threw something at the troops... I think it was a bamboo stick... and they just started shooting at him.

‘‘The first bullet just missed me, it was so loud, I could feel it come right past me, it must have missed me by a foot.’’

Mr Gilmore told The Age that the troops fired rubber bullets initially.

‘‘But then, as I was standing round the corner, someone said they were firing live rounds, so I wasn’t too keen to come around again. They were just firing and firing, indiscriminately.

‘‘There were explosions going off too, I don’t know what they were, but they were incredibly loud.’’

Peter Foster, 23, and Ryan Bekavak, 25, from Brisbane were caught on the rooftop of the hotel for more than three hours as the gun battle raged below them.

Helicopters which had been circling overhead all afternoon dropped teargas to try to disperse the protesters.

‘‘But then the gunshots started, and it was just continuous,they just kept firing. We couldn’t move from where we were in the hotel, but we could just kept hearing more and more shots fired,’’ Mr Foster said.

Late last night, the red-shirts were in control of much of Bangkok. While cordons of troops were still on the streets, most of the key intersections in the capital were controlled by red-shirts.

The protesters set up makeshift barriers using logs, metal barricades and barbed wire to stop police and army vehicles moving through.

Through the middle of the night, thousands of red-shirts remained on the streets, promising their protest would continue throughout Songkran, the Thai New Year celebrations this week

Thousands flee Bangkok

[rj1]

This is just going to get worse. The people with the power don't plan to share it & the people who have been illegally forced out appear to be unprepared to accept it. And all of this with a Royal succession looming. Thailand is going to pay a terrible price for the unwillingness of certain segments of society to share power. Four years in and this has not even begun to get bad.

Thousands flee Bangkok

Are other states involved beyond the standard "we pray for peace?" or is it purely domestic?

I don't know enough about who is right and who is wrong (most likely both) in this conflict but this Thaksin guy takes the cake. Guy gets deposed in a coup and then goes off to England to buy Manchester City, a Premiership soccer team. Accusations come from the Thai government he stole money from the country to finance it (which regardless of how he got the money, it reflects very badly on the Premiership to accept him in as an owner if there was any shadiness involved with a sovereign government). And as the article says above, him and his family are out of the country telling people to fight for him. Dear God, have the balls to at least be in the country if you're calling for civil war. It's such a p*ssy coward manuever and it reflects badly on his supporters that they don't realize this. These people depose the current government in a coup, and Thaksin is going to fly in and take command as the people that fought on the ground give up control voluntarily? Doesn't strike me as likely.