Headlines pages on or prior to 12 February 2008 will be found in our archives pages. We have had to shift headlines to archives files because of space used.
Please refer to links as shown.Headlines archives 1 July 2004- 5 May 2006 Headlines archives 29 June 2006 - 13 March 2007 Headlines Archive 4 to 12 February 2008.Thank you!
BANGKOK, August 25, 2008
(TNA - Thai News Agency)
PAD protesters in Bangok 26 August 2008.
Photo from Manager Online.
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej said his cabinet's weekly meeting will take place as usual on Tuesday, despite the threat from the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) to lay siege to Government House, pressing his government to call it quits. In a press conference Monday, a grim-faced prime minister assured his audience that his cabinet meeting will be carried out intact, no matter what the anti-government PAD does. The democracy protesters have mobilised anti-government demonstrators at Makkawan Bridge since May 25, and the new moves bring speculation that the protesters would seal off Phitsanuloke Road on one side of Government House, bringing traffic to a standstill and pressing his government to resign en masse. Mr. Samak cautioned that those who break the laws or otherwise resort to violence during the street protests will be faced with legal action, although authorities will not use force to disrupt or impede their planned blockade at Government House Tuesday. The prime minister said the government is only obliged to maintain the law and that the PAD could not blame the government if any untoward incidents take place during the siege, while at the same time the possibility exists that those opposed to the PAD may clash head-on with the anti-government protesters, and third parties sowing unrest could not be ruled out. Retired Maj-Gen Chamlong Srimuang, leader of the PAD, called on anti-government demonstrators to gather at Makkawan Bridge at 7am on Tuesday to begin moving to Phitsanuloke Road to lay siege at Government House. Metropolitan Police commissioner Pol. Lt-Gen. Asawin Khwanmuang said the police will not stop the PAD protesters from doing what they had planned to do on Tuesday, including their intended siege at the seat of Thailand's national government. More than 1,000 police will be on alert at and around Government House while fire-fighting equipment and ambulances will be on standby, Gen. Asawan said. Meanwhile, Nathakorn Kaewdee, leader of the State Enterprise Labour Unions Federation, dismissed rumours that unionised employees of any of the 43 state firm members might join Tuesday's siege. He said the State Enterprise Labour Unions Federation will by no means get itself involved in political matters. (TNA)
BANGKOK, August 24, 2008
(TNA)
Will Duang Ever Face The Music?
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej said Sunday he is being investigated by the National Counter Corruption Commission (NCCC) for allowing a son of a former interior minister to rejoin the military. Speaking during his weekly address on television and radio, Mr. Samak, who also serves as defence minister, said the NCCC had formally notified him by letter on August 13 that it has empowered a sub-committee to probe whether he had abused power as defense minister in appointing former interior minister Chalerm Yoobamrung's son Duang to rejoin the military which had caused damage to the country. Mr. Samak in late April this year approved Mr. Duang's application to rejoin the military. The controversial son was discharged from the military in 2002 on charges of desertion, after fleeing to Malaysia in 2001 in the wake of being accused of shooting an on-duty decorated police officer to death in a nightclub brawl. Mr. Duang surrendered the following year and was later acquitted of the charges. At the time the approval was given Mr. Chalerm was interior minister in Mr. Samak's coalition government, having come to power in early February this year. Upset by the ongoing investigation against him, Mr. Samak said he did not understand why he as defence minister was at fault after signing the approval. The prime minister said that Mr. Chalerm, no longer a minister in the government, should explain to the media the whole truth, saying "I'm in trouble after allowing your son to rejoin the military". (TNA)
"Officials Don't Do Anything Unless Ordered To"
19 August 2008
Kalasin Province, NE Thailand
Translated from Manager Online
Kalasin's police commissioner has declared open war on youth addiction to Internet video games, declaring a "White Video Games Shop" program, ostensibly meaning that the only thing left in the more than 100 shops in Kalasin will be the white walls and no youth, or youth only in shops at legitimate off-school hour times. The commissioner also indicated to the media that within meung district itself, there were over sixty such shops. The commissioner said that police had received Ministry of Culture notification assigning police of rank of lieutenant and above the authority to enter Intenet game shops and look after youth who have been subject to influences from such games that have produced violence [ergo Grand Theft Auto et. al].
The deputy commissioner of Kalasin provincial police indicated that investigators have asked for the cooperation of all shop operators of the more than 100 Internet video game establishments to assist police in ensuring that young school age children were not playing games during school hours, and that when they were playing that games were not of the violent type so as to keep children from developing modds that could lead to violence. The provincial cokmmissoiner also added that as far as educatoinal establishments were concerned, police were preparing a written advisory to them asking for cooperation and informing them of the program and its objectives.
Revenge Killing of Mahanikaya Abbot
Suspect confesses to Ubon police for killing of abbot, who was
also District Sangha head
.
13 August 2008
the Korat Post Online
Translation of 12 August Manager Online story
Police of Muang Dok Bua showed their stuff recently, as they sat in posed photographs to review apprehending of a murder suspect who confessed while in custody.
The killer stated that he had killed the Mahanikaya abbot of Wat Maniwaram (Watpa Noi) in Ubon on 6 August 2008 for throwing the suspect out of the temple earlier. The abbot was also the Ubonratchathani meung district Sangha chief. The assailant used a desk microphone to strike the head of the abbot. There were earlier suspicions that the incident arose out of divisions within the temple circles.
The latest, at 11:00 hrs. on 12 August 2008, Police Col. Asawin Sonphan and others attached to the provincial police's Investigations unit gave a press conference announcing police had apprehended Mr. Kriengkrai or Mr. Young Singhasin, age 27, in Bangkok but presently residing in rented housing nearby Ubon's Maniwanaram temple where the incident took place. In arresting the suspect, police also seized a pair of pants and pullover shirt that witnesses had indicated the suspect had worn during the time of the incident. The evidence was transferred to police forensics for analysis of traces of blood belonging to the victim. Investigators state that the assailtant had been a monk in the temple, staying in a kuti near that of the abbot, but had been defrocked because of un-monklike behavior, including drinking of spirits in the temple. Even after being defrocked, MR. Kriengkrai cokntinued to hang around the temple, residing in the same quarters.
Subsequently Jaokhun Kittihaansophon became aware of the matter and ordered another monk to place a lock on the door of the kuti. This caused Mr. Kriengkrai to have to go outside to a nearby rental to find a place to stay, but he continued hanging around the temple seeking help from other monks there.
This lasted until Mr. Kriengkrai caught news that the abot was about to pay off the temple's monthly expenses and Kriengkrai decided to rob the abbot. He sneaked into the abbot's kuti on 6 August to steal the money, but was confronted by the abbot who had woken. Kriengkrai then took the desk microphone nearby and struck the abbot on the head with it until the abbot expired. After the assault, Kriengkrai then stole 40,000 Baht in cash and left.
Police investigators also suspected that others may have bene involved in planning the theft and coverup of evidence in the murder, and as soon as more evidence or witnesses become available, will pursue further charges as needed.
BANGKOK, Aug 16 (TNA)
Temple Dispute About To Broil Again or Not?
After about one month of a military standoff at the disputed territory around the 11th century Preah Vihear temple, Thailand and neighbouring Cambodia have started withdrawing their troops in a bid to ease tensions ahead of their foreign ministers' meeting next week. Without disclosing the exact number of Thai troops pulling out from the territory contested by both countries, a Thai foreign ministry spokesman said Saturday that it was up to the military to decide how many soldiers should be withdrawn from the area. Citing an earlier Thai cabinet resolution that the troop withdrawal should not affect the country's capability in protecting its sovereignty, the spokesman said the Thai military would be responsible for the ongoing withdrawal. Tensions at the ancient temple escalated after UNESCO early last month named the temple as World Heritage site to Cambodia. The International Court of Justice in 1962 ruled that the temple belongs to Cambodia, but that the surrounding area remains in dispute between the two countries. Reports from Cambodia quoted Deputy Defense Minister General Neang Paht as saying that most troops would leave on Saturday evening. Gen. Neang Paht said there would be around 10 or 20 soldiers from each side remaining posted there. The troop withdrawal followed the first meeting of Thai Foreign Minister Tej Bunnag and his Cambodian counterpart Hor Namhong held in the Cambodian province of Siem Reap on July 28. Besides agreeing to the troop redeployment, both sides also agreed to a de-mining survey program and border demarcation by the Joint Boundary Commission. The two foreign ministers are scheduled to meet for a second time in the Thai resort town of Hua Hin on Tuesday. (TNA)
The Shinawatra's in better, but not good, days.
Why Were Cameras Off?
Nanaphan gold shop in Udorn has all security cameras
turned off just as lone thief robs it of gold chain!
Photo - Manager Online
10 August 2008
the Korat Post Online
Translated from Manager Online ( August 2008 edition
According to news reports from Udornthani on 9 August 2008, well-known gold shop Nanaphan was robbed in daylight by a lone thief who made his getaway on a motorcycle he had left running outside the shop.
After local radio reported that a nearby gold shop had been robbed, 191 police then investigated a robbery at the Nanaphan Gold Shop in Tambol Mak Kheng meung District Udorn had been robbed and the thief had escaped. Based on investigators' reports and witness statements, including the twenty-seven year-old daughter of the goldshop, the thief was able to get away with a two Baht gold chain. Ms. Chitchanoke Hanwong, the daughter who was on duty during the robbery, the shop's security cameras were not operating and thus no video was available. She indicated that the robber had left his motorcycle, parked outside, running and made his getaway on it. She indicated the thief spoke central dialest, wore a gray sweatshirt and long-legged pants, was about 175 centimers in height, and because the shop had rewound its security video tape there was no video evidence to show to the police.
3 August 2008
Manager Online - Translated by the Korat Post
Mahasarakham Youths Turn Themselves In
Youths seen dismantling PAD stage. Where are police?
Thai prime minister says, "If the PAD had not gone there,
nothing woudl have happened."
News reports indicate that six adolescents who had dismantled the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) stage in Maharasakham on 23 July 2008 turned themselves in to the Mahasarakham central district police station. The six youths were identified as Mr. Kittisak Unjai, aged 17, Mr. Thawatchai Chayakote, aged 25, M. Thirawat Waisuwan, aged 18, Mr. Surasak Suwanalert, aged 23, Mr. Pornchai Promma, aged 15, and Mr. Chahchai Srimungkhun, aged 23. Police officials charged the six with property descruction, occurring when the PAD had set up a speaker's stage near the Night Bazaar. The incident occured after a local politician, and radio DJ Kwanjai Paiphana hired and incited people to tear down the PAD stage. As well, a PAD opponent used a slingshot to fire a large marble, one hitting Mr. Karun Saingam in the head, knocking him down in themiddle of a speech. He required several stitches. As well, another PAD speaker and supporter, Mrs. Jitraphorn Khotornsarn, was hit in the middle of the face with a large brick and had to be hospitalized and given stitches.
Guilty! Pojamarn, brother-in-law, secretary See BBC article on Pajaman Shinawatra's conviction by Jonathan Head.
31 July 2008
the Nation
Court sentences Pojaman to three years in jail Pojaman, her adopted brother; Bannaphot sentenced to three years in jail. The Criminal Court on Thursday found wife of ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, guilty of intentionally avoiding tax payment of Bt546 million for the transfer of 4.5 million shares of the Shinawatra Computer and Communications' shares worth Bt738 million. Found guilty in the same charges were her adopted brother; Bannaphot Damapong and her secretary Pennapa Honghern. The Court sentenced Khunying Pojaman, Bannaphot to a total of three years in jail while Pennapa faces two years in jail. The Court said the three defendants had committed serious crimes and filed false statements with the government agencies in order to avoid paying taxes. They intended paying taxes despite that they were rich people. The charges were from from transaction, which took place in November 1997, come under the criminal codes of Article 37 (1) (2) of the Revenue Code. Violation of this law is punishable with a fine of between Bt2,000 and Bt200,000 and a jail sentence of between three months and seven years. A multiple violation of this law will result in a jail sentence of not more than 20 years. The Office of the Attorney General filed the suit on March 26 last year, summoning more than 30 prosecution witnesses to testify including Sak Korsaengruang, spokesman of the nowdefunct Assets Examination Committee who chaired the AEC panel that probed the accusation of tax evasion, and former Finance Ministry permanent secretary and former directorgeneral of the Revenue Department Suparat Kawutkul. The three defendants denied the charges and almost 20 defence witnesses testified in the case.
Investigate Violence by Pro-Government Groups
(New York, July 26, 2008)
Thai authorities should ensure that opposition political rallies are protected from attack by pro-government groups, Human Rights Watch said today. Since late May 2008, pro-government groups have attacked about a dozen rallies across Thailand organized by the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD), a coalition of groups critical of the government. On July 24, 2008, in the most serious incident to date, police stood by while pro-government thugs beat and critically injured at least 13 PAD supporters and destroyed public property at a rally in Udorn Thani province. “Thai authorities have failed to protect their citizens’ basic right to peaceful assembly,” said Elaine Pearson, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch. “By allowing pro-government thugs free rein to unleash violence, the authorities are putting Thailand’s fragile democracy at risk. Officials should investigate these attacks and hold to account those responsible for the violence, as well as any officials who failed to stop it.” On July 24, Kwanchai Praipana and Uthai Saenkaew, the younger brother of Agriculture Minister Theerachai Saenkaew, led some 1,000 members of the pro-government Khon Rak Udorn Club to forcibly break up a peaceful rally of about 200 PAD supporters at Nong Prajak public park in Muang district, Udorn Thani province. Local radio station FM 97.5 reportedly urged pro-government supporters to carry out violence against the rally. Pro-government supporters were armed with swords, axes, knives, iron clubs, wooden clubs, and slingshots. News footage and eyewitness accounts show that local authorities made no effort to stop the violence. Some 500 police and district defense volunteers at the rally did not try to perform their duties – even when thugs beat PAD supporters nearly to death right in front of them. And they made no attempt to arrest those who destroyed property at the rally. Since May 25, tens of thousands of people have joined the PAD in rallies in Bangkok and across the country to express opposition for the administration of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej.
The PAD has accused the government of corruption, abuse of power, and being unpatriotic, among other criticisms. Although the PAD often uses strong language to criticize the government and has staged lengthy roadblocks in Bangkok, most of its activities have been peaceful. On June 20, PAD supporters tried to force their way through police barricades to seize the Government House where the Cabinet sits. On at least 11 occasions in Bangkok, Udorn Thani, Sakol Nakhon, Chiang Mai, Sri Saket, Chiang Rai, Mahasarakham, and Buriram provinces, pro-government groups that are often associated with members of parliament from the ruling party have attacked PAD supporters, causing scores of injuries and damaging public property. In one instance, at a PAD rally in Mahasarakham province on July 23, former senator Karun Sai-Ngarm was on the stage when he was hit in the face with a marble from a slingshot and had to be rushed to hospital. To date Thai authorities have failed to take action against those responsible for the attacks. In some cases, local police and provincial governors have promised to investigate the attacks and arrest those responsible but there is no evidence that this has occurred. “The government of Prime Minister Samak should uphold the right to peaceful assembly as a basic component of democracy guaranteed in the Thai Constitution,” said Pearson.
the Nation
25 July 2008
Democracy Activist Murdered in Udorn!
local activist Ms. Kretaporn Honganatha, secretary of the Love Udorn Group,"We Udorn people don't need outsiders making trouble."
PAD supporter killed, 20 others in political violence in Udon Thani Udon Thani - A supporter of the People's Alliance for Democracy was killed and 20 others were injured when PAD-led protesters clashed with their opponents in this northeastern province Thursday afternoon. Police said about 1,000 anti-PAD people armed with sticks, machetes and iron bars, stormed into try to demolish the stage of the PAD at about 1:30 pm. PAD guards tried to fight back and the man was killed in the clash. The injured people were sent to the provincial hospital.
The Nation
Charter 'paralysing' my govt: Samak
By Supalak Ganjanakhundee
The Nation Published on July 16, 2008
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej yesterday blamed the Constitution for many of the current political problems, insisting the charter had "paralysed" the government and prevented the Foreign Ministry and other agencies from entering agreements with foreign partners. Thailand had become a laughing stock in the international community as no one could be sure about dealing with us, he claimed. "It's a shame for Thailand that no one dares to sign an agreement for fear that it would violate the Constitution," Samak said. "We have lost our dignity to Cambodia, to 21 members of the World Heritage Committee and now to Asean." Asean would begin its annual meeting of foreign ministers in Sunday but it was still unclear who would represent Thailand. The country is due to takes the reins of the group next week, but has no foreign minister. Noppadon Pattama resigned last week after the Constitution Court ruled a joint communiqu้ he signed to support Cambodia's application to list the Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site was unconstitutional. Deputy Prime Minister Sahas Bunditkul or Surapong Suebwonglee are earmarked to attend the Asean meeting in place of Noppodon as Mingkwan Sangsuwan, the deputy PM who oversees the Foreign Ministry has another meeting in Geneva, according to the Asean Affairs chief Vitavas Srivihok. Members of Cabinet cried foul after learning at least five documents need to be endorsed and signed by ministers during the Asean meet in Singapore, said Vitavas, who briefed ministers on the Asean meeting. The documents are the Statement on the Implementation of the Asean Charter, the Instrument of Exten-sion of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia by North Korea, an MoU on the Asean-Australia Development Cooperation Programme, a Singapore Declara-tion on the 15th Asean Regional Forum (ARF), and an ARF State-ment Promoting Collaboration to Prevent Diversion of Precursors into Illicit Drug Manufacture. "I insisted to the Cabinet that two of the documents - the Treaty of Amity and the Asean-Australia MoU - which Asean members need to sign, are not treaties in accordance with article 190 of the Constitution." Also, Thailand, the Philippines and Indonesia had not yet ratified the Asean Charter. "It would be a shame if the next Asean chairman came from the last country to ratify the charter," Vitavas said
SI SA KET, July 15, 2008
(TNA)
Thailand's Si Sa Ket provincial governor said on Tuesday that Cambodia released three Thai protestors detained earlier in the day for illegally entering the disputed area adjacent to Preah Vihear temple. Governor Seni Chittakasem said Cambodian authorities released them unconditionally and the trio crossed the border into Thai side. Earlier Thai Supreme Commander Gen. Boonsang Niampradit said Cambodian Defence Minister Tia Banh promised to instruct his subordinates to secure their release. It was the first cross-border protest since Cambodia blocked access to Preah Vihear temple to visitors from Thailand last month after some Thai protestors attempted to march on the temple ruins. The protestors made their way secretly through a barbed wire fence from the Thai side into the disputed zone at the entrance of Preah Vihear temple in an attempt to raise the Thai national flag over the disputed area. The three were reportedly members of the Dharma Yatra, a Buddhist peace pilgrimage group and were identified as Wichan Thabson, Chanikar Kaonok and Phra Kampong, who is a Buddhist monk. Cambodian authorities earlier said the trio would be prosecuted for illegal entry. The border province of Si Sa Ket has been tense since Cambodia's successful registration of Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site this month. (TNA)
BANGKOK, July 14, 2008
(TNA)
Thai Military Says Foreign Ministry Should Revoke Communique
The Foreign Ministry should inform concerned countries and organisations of Thailand's revocation of the joint communique issued to support Cambodia's bid to register the Preah Vihear temple as the World Heritage site, according to Supreme Commander Gen. Boonsang Niempradit. Speaking after meeting with academics and representatives of many parties concerned on the Preah Vihear Temple issue, he said any measures taken to cope with the disputed areas surrounding the temple are the responsibility of the Foreign Ministry. The Royal Thai Army is responsible for taking care of the country's sovereignty only. He said any actions on the matter must be taken transparently and with public acknowledgement. Because of this, the ministry should prepare easy-to-understand documents to clarify all issues the public had doubted. Meanwhile, Mr. Pisanu Suvanajata, the deputy director-general of the Foreign Ministry' Department of East Asian Affairs, suggested the government should join the seven-nation International Coordinating Committee (ICC) to manage the Preah Vihear temple to help protect the country's sovereignty, saying Thailand's involvement would benefit the country as it would be able to air its opinions concerning the national sovereignty. February 1 is the deadline for the submission of documents to join the committee to be set up under the World Heritage Committee's resolution.(TNA)
BANGKOK, July 11, 2008 (TNA)
Thailand's Office of the Attorney General (OAG) pressed yet another charge against former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, alleging that he amended the law to benefit his former telecom business, Shin Corp, causing damages of Bt6.6 billion to the state. Special Litigation Department director Seksan Bangsomboon said the Assets Examination Committee (AEC) filed a new corruption case against Mr. Thaksin who owned the company which was granted a telecom concession from the government. Mr. Thaksin, prime minister at that time, alledgedly ordered a conversion of the mobile phone service provider's concession fees into an excise tax. The action caused TOT and CAT Telecom to shoulder a tremendous burden of Bt6.6 billion in 2003. The Supreme Court Criminal Division will decide on September 3 whether the case would be prosecuted. Mr. Thaksin's wife Khunying Pojaman is facing graft charges regarding the Ratchadapisek Land deal made in 2004, which changed hands from the Financial Institutions Development Fund (FIDF) to Mr. Thaksin's wife at only one-third of the current market value when the purchase was made. The court began hearing the case in July and prohibited Mr. Thaksin from leaving the country. (TNA)
Samak Promises to Clear the Air This Sunday
By Daily Xpress
Published on July 10, 2008
[Premier announces on 10 July 2008 that he won't back up one inch, won't give way to unjust pressures against his government.]
The foreign minister returns to a nation baying for the 'traitor's' blood for signing away historic landmark Lame duck or dead duck? Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama returns from his travels today to a country that is enraged. Many people are accusing him of treason for signing the historic Preah Vihear Temple over to Cambodia. In fact, some are calling for his head, literally. The foreign minister signed a communiqu้ with Cambodia agreeing to that country's application to Unesco for the 10th-century temple to be declared a World Heritage site. Disputed area The two countries have disputed the area's ownership for decades. In 1962, the International Court of Justice declared that the temple was on Cambodian soil, but the only practical access to the site was via Thailand. Unesco's World Heritage committee this week agreed to Cambodia's application. Sources at the Foreign Ministry say Noppadon's aides have been packing up his personal effects, but no one can confirm if the former lawyer for ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra is actually quitting. Thaksin's ex-consiglieri returns to Bangkok from London after a week of last-minute lobbying of the 21 Unesco committee members. They unanimously shunned his plea to delay Phnom Penh's admission until Thailand and Cambodia could come to terms about the status of the Hindu shrine. Hoping to clear his name He is scheduled to meet the press tomorrow at 2pm at the Foreign Ministry. After Noppadon's initial endorsement of Cambodia's bid in May at the Unesco meeting in Paris, a court injunction last week forced him and the government to change their stance. However, Unesco ignored the injunction and passed one of the most controversial decisions of its eight-day meeting in Canada by putting the temple on the World Heritage list. Preah Vihear is a stunning, cliff-top temple dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction. The Surayud Chulanont government successfully blocked Cambodia's efforts to have the temple listed in 2006 and 2007 on grounds that maps include the 4.6-square-kilometre disputed territory.
Published on July 8, 2008
The Nation
Is Thaksin's House of Cards Falling?
With his key lieutenants losing major cases, the former PM's own future is anything but assured Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej added salt to Thailand's political wounds by saying in an interview in China that he would be detained at the airport upon his return to Bangkok. He was implying that there might be a coup against his government. Since he is now safe and free in Bangkok, we can conclude that Samak no longer has any credibility left. Don't ever mention a coup again. It is outmoded. The Thai military learnt a dear lesson with the November 2006 coup. It is not a solution for the political future of this country. The current deep-running political conflict can only be resolved by the rule of law. Now the judicial review is under way. A number of high profile cases are going to be tried by the Thai courts. Once the courts hand down their verdicts, Thai politics will move forward for the better, no matter whether we like the verdicts or not. All eyes are now zooming onto the Ratchadaphisek land deal, in which Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife Khunying Pojaman Shinawatra have been charged with abusing their power. Pojaman purchased a prime land plot from the Financial Institutions Development Fund, a financial arm of the Bank of Thailand, with Thaksin's consent. Thai law prohibits public officeholders from directly engaging in financial transactions with the state. Thaksin's case will go to trial today. The court verdict should be handed down some time in September of this year. Thaksin might have a tough time prevailing in this corruption case. If he were to lose in this high-profile corruption case, his political future would come to an end. Suriyasai Katasila, one of the core leaders of the People's Alliance for Democracy, said over the weekend that friends of Thaksin in the military might stage a coup to help him escape from the court's verdict. Suriyasai's comment was highly speculative. It is not easy for the military - either friends or foes of Thaksin - to stage a coup under the present circumstances. Thaksin must have some sleepless nights if he looks at the fates of his top lieutenants. Yongyuth Tiyapairat, the former House Speaker, will be facing a verdict from the Supreme Court's Office of Political Holders today in an election fraud case. He has already been given a red card from the Election Commission. If the Supreme Court finds him guilty, it would have negative consequences for the People Power Party, which might face dissolution, as Yongyuth is the party's deputy leader. Three of Thaksin's lawyers - Pichit Chuenban, Supasri Srisawat and Thana Tansiri - have been sentenced to six months in jail for contempt of court. The contempt of court charge relates to Bt2 million stacked in a snack bag that was handed to Supreme Court officials. A bribery case is being launched against them. The three represented Thaksin and Pojaman in the Ratchadaphisek land deal. Jakrapob Penkair, a Thaksin favourite, is now facing a lese majeste probe over remarks he made. Jakrapob lost his Cabinet job as PM's Office Minister. Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama, Thaksin's former personal lawyer, is also in hot water over Preah Vihear Temple. He is accused of conceding Thailand's sovereignty by allowing Cambodia to go ahead and file a sole application - rather than a joint application - for the Khmer temple to be on the World Heritage List. The Constitution Court will rule today whether his signing of a joint communiqu้ with his Cambodian counterpart on Preah Vihear violates the Constitution or not. Noppadon's political future is also very bleak. If the fate of Thaksin's top lieutenants provides any clue, we are more inclined to believe that Thaksin would have an uphill battle winning the numerous corruption cases against him in the courts.
Three of Thaksin's Lawyers Sentenced to Prison for Bribery!
But arrests and sentences bring to light an important element in Thai politics - Why does the Thai Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions exist? Does it elevate politica position holders apart from the rest of society?
By Pravit Rojanaphruk
The Nation Published on
June 26, 2008
Thaksin's legal team hit over Bt2-million 'gift' The Supreme Court yesterday sentenced three attorneys for ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife Pojaman to six months in prison for attempted bribery. The court ruled that the three had conspired to undermine the judiciary's reputation and integrity by stashing Bt2 million in cash in a snack box handed to a court official on June 10. According to the presiding judge at yesterday's trial, the bribery attempt was "a serious matter" and "grave" action that insulted the highest court. It was also likely have a "repercussion" on the on-going trial involving Thaksin and his wife in the Ratchadaphisek land purchase, in which the ex-premier is accused of abusing his power while in office for a sweetheart deal with the government. Thana Tansiri, the lawyer who delivered the snack box stashed with Bt1,000 notes worth around Bt2 million, was not present at yesterday's sentencing.He had asked for a trial postponement, claiming health reasons, but the judges dismissed the request on grounds that his health problems didn't appear to be serious. The court then ordered police to issue an arrest warrant for the lawyer. The two other convicted lawyers were Pichit Chuenban and Suphasri Sriswat. "I'm certain [of my innocence]," said Pichit, head of the legal team. Pichit said he didn't know why Thana, who is on his team, did not show up. On June 10, Thana was found guilty of trying to bribe ML Thitipong Chompoonuch, a legal officer at the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Holders of Political Positions, and his colleagues by handing the paper bag containing the snack box stuffed with some Bt2 million in cash. According to the presiding judge, who read out the verdict, Thana told Thitipong: "These days I have to come [to the court] often and I feel sorry for the officials who have to work hard, so I have something for you people." Thana had argued in his earlier testimony that it was a mistake, as his driver got the wrong box for him to deliver to the court official. The "wrong" box contained money intended for a land purchase, while Thana's wife was said to have filled another bag with chocolate candy. However, the judges ruled the argument unlikely, saying that if Thana really intended to give chocolate he could have done it in the open in the presence of other officials, not privately with Thitipong alone. According to the judges, Thana didn't mention any other "chocolate bag" while court staff took photographs of the snack box filled with cash. The court believed Pichit and Suphasri were also "working closely" with Thana as all of them appeared at the court on that day. "They kept talking to one another prior to Thaksin's and Pojaman's arrival at the court, and thus they must be regarded as one team." When Pichit learned about the return of the snack box, he only made a phone call to Thitipong to apologise and didn't appear to have reprimanded Thana. "It shows that they collaborated with one another ... were aware [of the matter] and divided their role in this attempted bribery," the court said.
Preah Vihear Closed, Anxieties Escalate
BANGKOK, June 23, 2008
(TNA)
Cambodian authorities ordered the closure of an historic temple on the Thai-Cambodia border Monday, and deployed an armed military unit for added security at the site to guard the temple under consideration as a World Heritage site in the wake of continuing protests in Thailand over the issue, according to a senior Thai military source. The source downplayed concerns that the move might affect bilateral relations, saying it was a precautionary measure for security reason to prevent ill-intentioned people from causing any disturbances. The Cambodian authorities made the move in light of continuing protests in Thailand's northeastern province of Si Sa Ket bordering Cambodia demanding the eviction of Cambodian souvenir vendors from the stairway leading to the ancient ruins of the temple and opposing Cambodia's move to apply for registration the temple as a World Heritage site. The Phnom Penh government will apply for registration of the ancient temple as a World Heritage site during the upcoming UNESCO [previous agreement] meeting in Canada between July 2-10 as both Thailand and Cambodia signed a joint communique last Wednesday endorsing the Cambodian application. Thai Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama was taken to task in the Senate debate Monday for allegedly rushing through the temple deal with Cambodia. Mr. Noppadon is among seven cabinet ministers in the Samak Sundaravej administration targetted by the opposition Democrat Party in a no-confidence debate scheduled on Tuesday. He was accused of mishandling the Preah Vihear issue. The foreign minister himself, however, dismissed the accusation and expressed confidence that he would be able to clarify all questions related to the issue. Mr. Noppadon also shrugged off criticism that his plan to seek cabinet approval on applying for the reservoir and staircases leading to Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site was merely an attempt to reduce pressure from many quarters in Thai society, saying the foreign ministry would issue a White Paper to explain its handling of the issue. Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej said the case was being politicised against the current government. "They're finding an issue to mobilise the people to rally against the government. If you doubt the accuracy of the demarcation, you can ask the Royal Thai Army or the Royal Thai Survey Department." said the premier. Bangkok Senator Rosana Tositrakul said a group of senators would petition the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) on Tuesday opposing Cambodia's registration of Preah Vihear as a World Heritage site. (TNA)
20 June 2008
the Korat Post Online
Khon Kaen Governor Jet Thannawat Flubs It - Orders Drop of ASTV Signal
Local citizens rub it in - hard!
Exactly what it was that prompted Khon Kaen governor Jet Thannawat to "obey" Thailand's notorious Minister of Interior Chalerm Ubumrung and order the shut-off of the ASTV signal in Khon Kaen province is not likely to be uncovered, but perhaps a court trial will help. The governor is facing serious charges of violating constitutional guarantees and other laws governing freedom of expression. Was he in line for a promotion under the Samak reigme by joining a conspiracy of silence or did he just think he was doing the right thing? See edirorial.
Preah Vihear Dispute concerns not just land, but also natural gas. Thaksin alleged to have 'engineered' self-serving deal with Cambodia.
BANGKOK,
June 17, 2008 (TNA)
The Thai Senate Foreign Relations Committee has submitted an urgent motion urging Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama to negotiate with the Cambodian government to delay its application for the disputed Preah Vihear temple to be listed as a World Heritage Site. Senator Priyanandana Rangsit, vice chairman of the Committee, said four questions were raised to Mr. Noppadon asking him to disclose how the Thai government would explain to experts of the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESC) during a meeting to discuss the listing of Preah Vihear on the World Heritage List. The meeting is scheduled to be held in Quebec between July 2-10. The other queries involve detail contents in which the Thai government would support or object the Phnom Penh government in its attempt to register the ruins as World Heritage site, how the disputed overlapping area around the temple could be solved by the two neighboring countries and what preparations the Thai government have made if the Cambodian government’s attempts succeeded. Senator Priyanandana said the Senate Foreign Relations Committee might meet again and possibly send letters to the Thai Foreign Ministry and the UNESCO to delay listing of the temple as World Heritage site. Her comments were made only a few hours after the Thai cabinet endorsed a yet-to-be disclosed new map of Preah Vihear temple prepared by the Phnom Penh government. Mr. Noppadon said the disputed and undemarcated 4.6-square kilometre area surrounding and adjacent to the temple complex itself is not included on the map. The minister also emphasised that all details in the new map would be released after the World Heritage Committee meets in July to consider the matter. Senator Priyanandana said the Phnom Penh government has admitted that the disputed 4.6-square kilometer covered around the ancient temple and Mr. Noppadon should “show the new map to the public”. Mr. Noppadon would be guilty if Cambodia follows its own guidelines because Thailand borderline would be changed as a result of the new map without seeking an approval from the Parliament, she said. He would violate Constitution article 190 in doing so and could be impeached. (TNA)
See report of natural gas discussions between Hun Sen of Cambodia and Thaksin Shinawatra here. Thai Foreign Minister, Thaksin close aide, denies connection here.
17 June 2008
the Korat Post Online
"Throw out the corrupt!" [and ignorant]
Thailand's most famous (and many Thais and foreigners alike, who are more often well beyond the periphery of the Thai political infrastructure) the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) is closely coordinating with its main council and tens of thousands of members to throw out from office the "figurehead" said to be "acting in lieu of Thaksin Shinawatra," that is, the Thai government. Said to already be taking more pro-Thaksin grassroots moves to ensure another TRT-style victory should the current Parliament be dissolved and new elections need to be held. According to those claiming to be on the scene, the same political connections at work that got the "nominee" government elected that is now in place are being vetted to make sure that another politicla party loyal to Thaksin and cronies will sweep the polls. If the willingness of ignorant, corrupt and fearful Thai voters is any indication, any new government coming in will be as corrupt as the last sent of seventeen. It's not a pretty picture. See editorial shortly.
Chalerm Says, "The law is already there!"
The following sections from the Thai Criminal Code are those quoted today, 13 June 2008, by Thai Minister of Interior Chalerm Ubumrung in announcing his authorization to Thailand's governors nationwide that can be used to justify police enforcement against gatherings and in closing of ASTV broadcasts.
Section 85. Whoever propagates or publishes to the general public to commit an offense and such offence being punishable with imprisonment of not less than six months, shall be liable to one-half of the punishment provided for such offense. If the offense is committed on account of the propagation or publication according to the first paragraph, the person who made such propagation or publication shall be liable to the punishment as principal.
Section 116. Whoever makes an appearance to the public by words, writings or any other means which is not an act within the purpose of the Constitution or for expressing an honest opinion or criticism in order: (1) to bring about a change in the laws of the Country or the Government by the use of force or violence; (2) to raise unrest and dissatisfaction amongst the people in a manner likely to cause disturbance in the country, or; (3) to cause the people to transgress the laws of the Country, shall be punished with imprisonment not exceeding seven years.
Section 215. Whenever ten persons upwards being assembled together do or threaten to do an act of violence, or do any thing to cause a breach of the peace, every such person shall be punished with imprisonment not exceeding six months or fined not exceeding one thousand Baht, or both. If any of the offenders carries an arm, all the offenders shall be punished with imprisonment not exceeding two years or fined not exceeding four thousand Baht, or both. If the offender be the manager or person having the duty to give orders for the commission of the offense, such offender shall be punished with imprisonment not exceeding five years or fined not exceeding ten thousand Baht, or both.
Section 216. When the official orders any person assembled to gather so as to commit the offense as prescribed under Section 215 to disperse, such person not to disperse shall be imprisoned not out of three years or fined not exceeding six thousand Baht, or both.
Ex-Premier, "It's Useless."
Former Thai premier Anand Panyarachun, well-respected and not a great fan of Thaksin.
By The Nation
Published on June 9, 2008
Ex-prime minister says PAD, rivals are irreconcilable; rejects idea for mediation effort by ex-premiers Former prime minister Anand Panyarachun believes Thai politics has become so polarised that it is beyond reconciliation. He also played down the idea of having four former prime ministers act as mediators to defuse the political conflict. Speaking at the Royal Navy Auditorium yesterday after presiding over a seminar on public television, Anand said he was very concerned about the situation because there were two opposing forces who did not seem able to reach reconciliation. "Every society has differences [in ideas]. But there must be some grounds to work out the differences so that it will not lead to physical violence. At present, Thai politics is clearly divided into two. And I think it has reached a point beyond reconciliation," Anand said. The People's Alliance for Democracy has continued its street demonstration for the second week. It initially set forth its demand that the government must not amend the 2007 Constitution to help bail out former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra from his corruption cases. Now it has added another condition - for the Samak government to resign altogether because it is acting as a nominee for Thaksin and it has failed to tackle the problems of the country. Thaksin's supporters have also been hitting back at the PAD in a tit-for-tat political battle that has created an atmosphere of instability and spooked investors. Anand said both sides could not reach any mutual understanding because they were not speaking the same language. When one party raises one point, the other party answers another question. "They not only need to speak the same language but also the same subject in order to reach an understanding. If they keep on speaking against each other, they will never be able to achieve reconciliation," Anand said. Respected social critic Dr Praves Wasi suggested that one way to defuse the political conflict is for four former prime ministers to act as mediators between the two sides. This, he said, would help resolve the conflict. But Anand said mediators could not speak on anybody's behalf and that at best they could only facilitate talks. "Now I am getting old. I need to have a rest. Let's get the young men and women to do the job," Anand said. Speaking on his weekly radio talk show, Samak opposed the idea to have four former premiers act as mediators. "If you bring four former prime ministers to join a talk, what then can they do?" Samak said. "They can't issue orders. They can only talk. But what happens after that? Under the current situation, the present prime minister, which is me, is assuming responsibility. If there is any mistake, we all can see. And is there any mistake? No, there is not. I am not working alone. I work as a team with 35 other Cabinet members."
BANGKOK, June 1, 2008
(TNA)
Protest Continues, Earlier Airport Closure in Four Provinces Threatened Photo: Korat Post.
Supporters of the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD)
assembled at Bangkok's Democracy Monument 25 May 2008.
Anti-government activists of the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) continued their protest in central Bangkok for an eighth day Sunday and stood firm on their decision not to move to another location as demanded by Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej. The PAD members and supporters now encamped in front of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) building have demanded the ouster of the Samak administration which came into power on February 6 following last December's general election, and stood firm to continue their rally at the present site, said Maj-Gen. Chamlong Srimuang, a former Bangkok governor and a core leader of the PAD. Charging that Mr. Samak has lost credibility and could no longer be trusted, retired Maj-Gen. Chamlong said Mr. Samak should not have raised the demonstration issue as causing traffic jam and affecting economy as reasons for dispersing the demonstrators. It is the duty of the police to solve traffic problem and people already know that the rally is being held in the area, he said. On complaints of a sluggish economy, the PAD believes it is the government's fault because it has focused only on amending the constitution, said Maj-Gen. Chamlong. He said his group is ready if the government wants to negotiate on the condition that it must approaches the PAD first and not the other way round. "It's no use to talk about the government's credibility. It said yesterday to break up the rally but the threat didn't happen. How can we believe it," Maj-Gen. Chamlong said, "when lies are seen on an hourly basis." His remarks were made only hours after Mr. Samak spoke on his weekly TV and radio address that the PAD and its supporters were "violating several laws" and demanded that they move to another location where they would not cause traffic problems and inconvenience to Royal family members. "Unarmed police will negotiate and ask them to dismantle their makeshift tents. If they don't, police will help in removing them to open the road for traffic. Nobody cares if they continue the rally elsewhere," Mr. Samak explained. Becaused the ongoing protest has also caused inconvenience to Royal family members as they also use the road frequently and must now make detours, Mr. Samak went on to say that the "protesters should be ashamed of themselves" because students are also having difficulty travelling to schools near the rally site. (TNA)
BangkokPost.com
[24 May 2008?- for some reason the Bangoko Post often does not individuallly date its articles]
Gratuitous Commitment?
"to lessen social divide in the country"
The government’s proposal to hold a national referendum on the charter revision was to lessen social divide in the country, according to government spokesman Vichienchote Sukchoterat. He insisted that sacrificing 2 billion baht for the referendum was not a waste of money and defended the government’s stance on the constitution amendments. “The referendum is something that we should go ahead with because there is so much division in the country. Because of this, we need to use the government’s majority ruling in parliament to make a democratic decision,” Mr Vichienchote said. He added: “As for the 2 billion baht that will be used to hold the referendum, it will still be circulating in the country and keeping people employed.” He maintained that the government is not concerned about amending the charter more than it is about solving the people’s problems. “The government is constantly working hard for the people,” he asserted.
BANGKOK, May 22, 2008 (TNA)
No plan to resign
Jakrapob Penkair, minister attached to the prime minister's office, has no plan to resign from his post over a controversial speech allegedly offending the Thai monarchy, said a deputy government spokesman on Thursday. Natthawut Saikua said he had been in contact with Mr. Jakrapob continually and was told by the latter that he would give a press conference as well as showing his speech given at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand (FCCT) and other places which he had already translated in Thai. The embattled minister's speech given at the FCCT last August was considered by many as an attempt to challenge the monarchy. The press conference will be held Monday at Government House, according to Mr. Natthawut. Society should give an opportunity to Mr. Jakrapob to clear himself, Mr. Nuttawut said, and if he is guilty, he should accept the consequences under the legal framework, said Mr. Natthawut. Touching on some "senior people" in the government, the ruling People Power Party and the ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra had asked Mr. Jakrapob to step down, he said the embattled minister had confirmed to him that there was no pressure whatsoever for him to leave the post. Mr. Natthawut, a former leader of pro-Thaksin United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship, said he would standby Mr. Jakrapob while members of the group believed that the minister was innocent. On Wednesday, 167 opposition Democrat MPs lodged an impeachment bid against Mr. Jakrapob, charging he had deliberately snubbed Thailand's constitution and laws. The action requires the National Counter Corruption Commission to conduct an investigation into the Democrats' allegations that the minister had deliberately abused his powers and failed to comply with the kingdom's constitution and laws involving the running of provincial community radio stations and the newly-launched National Broadcasting Service of Thailand, formerly known as Television Channel 11. (TNA)-E111
Thai Chamber Admits Foreign Investment Reluctance
Thai Chamber Executive and Burmese Government Officially friendly at
recent joint business meeting.
BANGKOK, May 15, 2008 (TNA) – Ongoing political turbulence, high oil prices and economic problems in Thailand have caused foreign investors to become reluctant to invest in the Kingdom, according to a survey conducted recently by the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC). TCC vice president Dusit Nontanakorn said the survey, conducted among 156 foreign investors from May 12 to 14, found that 13.6 per cent of the respondents wanted the Thai government to solve the country's political problems, followed by 10.7 per cent who focused primarily on high oil prices and 10.3 per cent on who said the economic crisis was most central. On average foreign investors queried in the survey gave only 5.4 out of a total 10 points on political stability in Thailand compared to 7.3, 6.6 and 6.3 points given to Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia respectively, said Mr. Dusit. One third of the respondents, 33.3 per cent, had decided to delay further investment in Thailand until after the political climate has improved while 27.8 per cent said they would make further investment in the fourth quarter this year. Some 52.9 per cent of foreign investors were optimistic that Thailand's economy would stay at a fair level in the next six months. Meanwhile, Fukujiro Yamabe, president of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok, said Japan's small- and medium-sized enterprises were still interested in investing in Thailand. Mr. Yamabe said 1,291 firms, members of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Bangkok, wanted the Thai government to maintain foreign investment policy, waive or reduce requirements on alien business law and to speed on making the Japan-Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement more efficiency.
14 May 2008
The Nation
Thai Government Spokesman Faces Impeachment
Opposition to launch impeachment proceedings against Jakrapob The opposition will launch impeachment proceedings Thursday against Prime Minister's Office Minister Jakrapob Penkair for media interference, which is an offence against the Constitution. Opposition chief whip Sathit Wongnongtoey said Tuesday that the opposition will accuse Jakrapob of violating the Constitution for interfering with the media such as the MCOT and the state-run NBT channel. Sathit, also a Democrat Party executive, said the impeachment case would be filed with the Senate speaker Thursday. The Nation
Burmese Junta Policies Have Deadly Ramifications
Recollections of Thailand's own Thaksin-led refusal to accept aid for tsunami victims... who really pays?
The US ambassador to Thailand announced Thursday that the American military C-130 aircraft assigned to deliver the first installment of President George Bush's earlier proffered assistance was now not permitted to fly to Yangon, the former Myanmar capital. US President George W. Bush said earlier his country is prepared to send humanitarian assistance to victims of Cyclone Nargis, despite political differences between the United States of Myanmar, a Thai government spokesman said earlier Thursday. However, later Thursday American ambassador Eric John announced that the US mission would not, after all, dispatch its flight of goods. The ambassador did not say if there had been confusion regarding the initial offer, or if the Myanmar junta had withdrawn permission. The US ambassador told a press conference that the US aircraft did not have the Myanmar go-ahead to deliver the goods. The United States mission still hopes that American aid workers would be let into Myanmar, even as Myanmar is stalling issuing visas to foreign aid workers. Mr. John said he was "optimistic" that "the Burmese leadership" will make the correct choice regarding visas, and other aspects of the emergency aid situation. So the American diplomatic mission in Thailand, and US authorities in Washington, remain unclear regarding the prospects for American assistance to cyclone victims in Myanmar. While the Americans claim there is no political coloration to their offer, the Myanmar authorities apparently do not agree. The Thai government spokesman said the US ambassador met with Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej at Government House Thursday and asked the Thai government to help negotiate with Myanmar government to allow US military aircraft carrying necessities to land in Myanmar. American assistance will fall under the World Food Program and could offer food to 600,000 people per day for six consecutive months, the spokesman said. In responding to the US envoy's request, Mr. Samak, according to the spokesman, pledged to telephone his Myanmar counterpart prime minister Gen. Thein Sein, who visited Thailand last month, and seek permission on behalf of the US ambassador. If the telephone talks failed, Mr. Samak would travel to Myanmar soon to seek approval for Washington, said the spokesman. Earlier Thursday, the Swedish and Canadian ambassadors to Thailand met Thai Interior Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung and urged him to help negotiate with the Myanmar government on their countries wishing to assist cyclone victims. At least four Asian countries, including Thailand, are flying in relief supplies to the devastated country while the number of those killed and missing have risen. According to latest statistics released by Myanmar state media, 22,980 persons were killed and 42,119 were still missing.
Think Sex In Thailand Is a Blast?
30 April 2008
the Nation
Seventy percent [70%] of Thai women cannot achieve orgasm, according to survey A recent global sex survey [See also prostitution in Thailand] found that 70 per cent of Thai women cannot achieve orgasm. Others reach orgasm through masturbation or having sex with another woman, while 79 per cent of Thai men climax during sex, according to research by condom manufacturer Durex. The survey was conducted in 26 countries and questioned 26,000 respondents about their sexual behaviour and attitudes.
Thailand's agricultral backbone rice tillers have began stalling on the sale of their reserves in hand, even as government sources indicated that US$100 million of rice has gone missing from national warehouses. Continued increasing rice prices in the Thai market have prompted numerous farmers and middlemen to slow, stall or altogether stop selling paddy rice to millers, a move which eventually affects exporters, according to a Bank of Thailand (BoT) official who is deeply acquainted with the rice trade. Benjamas Kotenongbua, a senior economist at BoT's Northeastern Office in Khon Kaen, said that this year's rice prices have soared unexpectedly to a new record high. The government-sponsored mortgage programme for the 2007-2008 rice season saw only 240,000 tonnes of rice being committed to it, compared to earlier estimates of 8 million tonnes, she said. The major reason for the sharp drop of rice participation in the programme was the result of soaring of rice prices which persuaded farmers and middlemen not to sell rice to millers. The practice has already affected exporters, according to Ms. Benjamas, as farmers are increasingly unwilling to let go of their stocks in hand. In the first three months of this year, rice exports totaled 3.26 million tonnes, up 166.2 per cent from the 1.96 million tonnes shipped in the corresponding period in 2007. The target rice export for the whole year was originally set at 8.75-9 million tonnes. Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Mingkwan Saengsuwan said last week that Thai jasmine rice -- khao hom mali -- is now priced on average at 34,600-36,000 baht per tonne (US$1,091-1,135), 5 per cent white rice at 26,400-26,700 baht per tonne (US$832-842), and paddy at 17,000-18,000 baht per tonne (US$536-567). On government's rice stock, Miss Benjamas said a total of 200,000 tonnes of rice had been missing from warehouses nationwide. Damages were estimated at approximately Bt3.2 billion (about US$101.1 million). The government has kept 2.1 million tonnes of rice in stock to ensure local people have enough rice for consumption. The current volume of rice in the country's stockpiles is less than half of that compared to last year -- which was at about 4.4 million tonnes.
Samak Government To Unravel Democratic Referendum
The Bangkok Post
(ARTICLE DATED ONLY BY YEAR!) 2008
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej said on Tuesday the whole 2007 constitution should be amended. Mr Samak said he is confident that chaos will not arise as a result of the charter amending process. He described altering the constitution as a "common practice". He also indicated the changes will be made by the government, approved by the parliamentary majority - without a public referendum. Last August, the military junta then in charge of the country conducted a nationwide referendum said to cost two billion baht. It was the first referendum ever held for Thailand, which has had 17 constitutions since the abolition of the absolute monarchy in 1932. Deputy Prime Minister Surapong Suebwonglee confirmed that the ruling People Power party has passed a resolution to amend the entire charter. He said the decision of the party will be forwarded to the five coalition parties next week for further discussion. Their support will be necessary for parliament to approve the amendments. He added that it is still unknown how long the process will take.
BANGKOK, April 5, 2008
Thai News Agency
Activist warns of social deterioration
A prominent Thai political analyst said Saturday that Thai society is now deteriorating significantly, and that Thailand's judicial system is only the institution left which provides stability and which the people can rely upon. Thirayuth Boonmee, the former 1973 student uprising activist who now directs the Sanya Dhammasak Institute, said while speaking at a university that the Thai people and society were now being confronted by five problems: a lack of unity, righteousness, overly bureaucratic polity, politics, and academic and media institutions, all causing a deep crisis from which no solutions could be found. These problems can be seen clearly as a division between those who live at the country's grass-roots level now disagreed with middle-income people about ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Mr. Thirayuth said. He predicted that this dispute will carry on for at least another one or two general elections. Thailand is heading towards a deepening crisis with no solution in sight, the academic said, stating that the judiciary seems to be the sole institution which can solve the ongoing crisis. The situation has worsened as the coalition government is rushing to change the constitution, he said, warning that amending the constitution is an action which could cause further confrontation between those who are for and those who are against such change. Military coups and restricting public freedoms are not solutions to the problem. He urged Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej to listen to criticism made earlier by both senior citizen Prawase Wasi and former prime minister Anand Panyarachun, who both believed the amendments are being carried out for selfish-gain, and not for the benefit of the country and Thais in the future, as claimed by Mr. Samak. Amending the charter is very significant, Dr. Thirayuth cautioned. It requires participation from all sectors of society, not only the politicians in parliament, he cautioned.
30 March 2008
the Korat Post - from Manager Online/Thai News Agency
Lower Northeast Experiencing Severe Drought
Six of Northeast Thailand's lower NE provinces cited as under drought conditions. Water is being distributed by various government agencies, including the military. All 22 major water reservoirs in the region said to be continuously losing water and falling to record shallow levels. According to Region 5 Director of Public Hazard Prevention and Relief Mr. Wallop Thepphakdee cited the following northeast provincial breakdown (32 districts, 220 tambols, 2542 villages) of districts suffering and extent of damage or suffering:
The provinces most seriously affected were, in order, Sisaket, Buriram, Surin, Chaiyaphum, Saraburi. Almost 5,000 rai and two billion Baht worth of damage was inflicted. Over fifteen million liters o water have been distributed to date.
28 March 2008
from The Nation
2,542 Isan Villages Declared Disaster Zones
A total of 110 districts in northeastern provinces have been declared drought disaster zones, a senior official said Friday. Wallop Thepphakdee, director of the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Region 5, said the six provinces are Saraburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chaiyaphum, Buri Ram, Surin, and Si Sa Ket. The drought is affecting some 1.695 million people in 9,030 villages in the provinces, he said. In Nakhon Ratchasima alone 2,542 villages in 32 districts were affected, he said. The Nation
27 March 2008
the Korat Post Online
From Manager Online
What follows is a Thai language video of Chelerm Ubumrung, Thai Minister of Interior, acting like normal. Fit for Burma.
24 March 2008
the Korat Post Online
Korat citizens march in support of the Privy Council President during PM Thaksin reign. The King's personal
chief adviser
had born the brunt of pro-Thaksin attacks.
On 23 March 2008, Khun Ying Kalaya Sophonphanich, deputy leader and adviser to the Democrat Party, was reported in Manager Online to have announced a new book about 14 October 1973 and 6 October 1976 that dispells myths generated by current Thai prime minster Samak Sundaravej. According to the PM, only "only unlucky guy" died on 6 October 1976 at the Thammasat massacre while the official death oll was forty six and in reality was thought to be over a hundred. Samak and Thailand's Interior Minister (M.I. 1) Chalerm Ubumrung have distorted reports of the two Octobers to guard their own interests and to deny culpability on the one hand and to denounce student protestors on the other.
BANGKOK, March 23, 2008
(TNA)
Thailand's New Constitution Facing Shredder
Prime minister Samak Sundaravej said on Sunday he wanted to review and amend the entire 2007 Constitution, if possible, except for the chapter governing the monarchy institution. Speaking during his weekly television and radio program, Mr. Samak confirmed it would be better to compare the present Constitution with the now scrapped 1997 Constitution and keep only fine articles in the previous charter in the revision process. Additional articles would be inserted, he added. He made the comments after People Power Party or PPP members agreed at the party’s annual convention on Saturday on plans to push for amendments to the Constitution. Details would be discussed again at a meeting scheduled for Tuesday. The 1997 Constitution was abrogated following the September 19, 2006 bloodless coup which toppled the elected government of prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Mr. Samak, leader of the PPP which forms the core of the six party coalition government, said if the government had to spend Bt500 million in organizing a public referendum on amending the Constitution then it would be no problem. “The process should start straight away if the majority of the people want to amend it. But if the expenditure (of referendum organization) is as high as Bt2 billion then it’s too much,” said Mr. Samak. He also charged the military-sponsored 2007 Constitution was promulgated with the aim to dump a “single person from politics” but this person was still alive while attempts were still being carried out. In his campaign leading the PPP to victory in the December 2007 general election, Mr. Samak highlighted his full support for Thaksin. Plans by the government to amend the Constitution have been deplored by several senators and former charter writers as they claimed the proposed amendments would benefit the ruling PPP. The PPP along with two other political parties in the coalition government are facing charges of fraud in December’s general election. If found guilty, the parties could be dissolved. (TNA)
23 March 2008
the Korat Post Online
Car Bombs On The Way?
A Muslim MP of the Democrat Party Saturday warned the government of possible suicide bombing attacks in southern border provinces. Democrat party-list MP Pirayos Rahimula [24 May 2007 Report] said he had learnt from a website of an insurgent group that the group had prepared to launch attacks by about 40 suicide bombers. He said the situation in the deep South was not improving as the authorities claimed. Pirayos said the government should appoint representatives to hold talks with insurgents. The Nation
20 March 2008
the Nation
Diarrhoea Hits Kalasin
In less than three months, diarrhoea has hit as many as 4,257 residents in Kalasin. "Most of the patients are young children," Dr Somyos Srijaranai said Wednesday in his capacity as the preventive-medicine specialist at the Kalasin public-health office. He believed the unclean drinking water and the consumption of half-cooked food were the main causes of diarrhoea. "We have now randomly checked servings at food shops and restaurants in the province especially those selling somtam," Somyos added. The Nation
14 March 2008
the Korat Post Online
From Manager Online dated 13 March 2008
Recent Mass Theft of State Property
In response to theft of power pylon cables and bolts, electricity and water meters, road manhole covers and copper cable, etc., belonging to government agencies and/or contractors working for them, the sheriff of Buriram recently called a meeting of businesses and agencies involved in purchase and sale of used goods.
Mr. Suthnan Boonmee, sheriff of Buriram meung district, on 13 March 2008 called all 54 businesses in meung district engaged in purchase and sale of used goods [50 million Baht worth] to operate strictly according to the law to avoid severe jail sentences, up to ten years, should any be proven to be implicated in purchase/sale of stolen goods. The official indicated during the meeting that to date operators had not given the kind of cooperation with state officials as they should, and indeed were trading helter-skelter without much regard to source of goods or to whom they were being sold. The sheriff indicated that order needed to be established by business operators, who were warned that should they come into possession of used goods that are suspicious or possibly sourced from dishonest means, that if the operator of the business did not immediately notify police or inspectors, that he would be subject to a 1-3 year prison term and fines of 10,000 to 30,000 Baht. For stiffer sentences up to ten years in prison, the fines could go as high as 150,000 Baht.
13 March 2008
Translated from Manager Online
M.I. 1 Denies Culpability in Stopping Citizens From Traveling to Thammasat
Chalerm Ubumrung, current Thai Minister of Interior (MI) today denied to media that he had issued any orders to the nation's 76 provincial governors to stop citizens from interprovince travel to attend a government protest seminar. Scheduled for 28 March at Thammasat University, the seminar is being organized by several groups, headed by the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), often represented by media baron Sondhi Limthongkul. Sondhi has recently been rumored to be running low on funds, and in a television program on his ASTV News 1 program yesterday, staff indicated that they many had not been paid for two weeks but were reluctant to disturb their ultimate boss who was under a great deal of pressure. Chalerm recounted with the media that some time ago, which he still fondly remembers, Sondhi Limthongkul had given him a check for 500,000 Baht when he had to flee the country. Yet, according to Chalerm, the check bounced, but then Sondhi endeavered to transfer the money through Chalerm's younger brother. So he has kept that assistance in mind and will continue to do so.
12 March 2008
From Manager Online
Recently local residents in Buriram province met with current police officials to discuss the firing of Buriram's assistant police commissioner, who was also a member of the Buriram Provincial Election Committee investigating Thaksin and his supporter, notably Newin Chidchop, and three elected MPs who had cheated during their election. The removal of this respected official is expected to be on the agenda at the 28 March 2008 PAD public meeting at Thammasat University.
BANGKOK, March 6, 2008
Thailand News Agency (TNA)
Relatives To Undergo 'Unconstitutional' Search
Justice Minister Somphong Amornvivat has launched a new round of the government's anti-drug campaign with the announcement of setting up a national-level drug-busting committee headed by Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej. Mr. Sompong, who discussed the matter with Office of the Narcotics Control Board chief Kitti Limchaikit, said the National Committee for Prevention and Suppression of Drug Trafficking will be chaired by the prime minister and consist of several ministers concerned, including himself. Under the procedures of the new drug war, relatives and close associates of drug dealing suspects may be questioned and have their assets examined by the authorities, including the Anti-Money Laundering Office and the Revenue Department. Funds put away in any banks or other property of those related to or connected with the suspected drug dealers will be thoroughly scanned. Rewards will be granted to those who may give information leading to the arrest of major drug dealers currently at large, the justice minister added. More than 2,500 people died during the former Thaksin Administration, sparking criticism from human rights groups in Thailand and abroad. Thai police and security forces were accused of murdering drug trafficking suspects, but the then government denied this. (TNA)-E008
29 February 2008
the Korat Post Online
Dr. Montree Treeratanarangsee
2007 Man of the Year, Nakhonratchasima
MAss Ally Federation Ceremony 29 February 2008
Tonight, beginning at 18:00 hrs., at Royal Thai Army Region 2 headquarters' Rerng Chai Clubhouse, the Mass Ally Federation of Nakhonratchasima held its annual Man of the Year award ceremonies. This year's honor went to Bangkok Hospital executive Dr. Montree Treeratanarangsee, expert in family medicine. Born on 10 December 1951, Nakhornsawan province, Thailand. With a motto of "Adopt the same heart at the patient, treat the patient as if a relative and friend, charge cheap prices for treatment," Dr. Montree graduated with Class 1 and a master's in government and private sector administration from NIDA in 1970.
Thaksin Back In The Morning
BANGKOK, February 27, 2008 (TNA)
Transport Minister Santi Prompant affirmed that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra would arrive at the Thai capital's Suvarnabhumi airport Thursday at 9.40 am, and that hundreds of police were being deployed to provide extra security for his return. The transport minister said Mr. Thaksin's return was to defend himself aganst corruption charges after18-month of self-imposed exile. The minister of transport, to whom the Airports Authority of Thailand (AoT) and Thai Airways International (THAI) report to, has prepped the two organisations to prepare for the ex-PM's arrival. Mr. Santi said he would be one of the five people to welcome Mr. Thaksin onboard. The former prime minister, accompanied by a 13-member entourages, will board Thai Airways International flight TG603 in Hong Kong and arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport at Zone G where he would be received in VIP Lounge 1-4. Meanwhile, Airports Authority of Thailand (AoT) Plc. closed Zone G on Wednesday and stepped up security. Five hundred police officers will be deployed to provide extra security at the airport for Mr. Thaksin's arrival. Meanwhile, anti-Thaksin activists again claiming the banner of the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) pledged Wednesday that they will not protest against the speculated comeback to Thailand of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra Thursday to defend himself against court charges. Prominent former PAD personality Suriyasai Katasila said the anti-Thaksin activists will not gather anywhere or make any move in protest against the deposed prime minister's return 18 months as a world-travelin exile following the 2006 military coup. Returning to fight for justice for himself and his family in the face of earlier lodged charges of corruption and abuse of power, the former premier is expected to be met by numbers of admirers and supporters. However, activist Suriyasai called on the authorities -- including the police, the Office of Attorney General and the Department of Special Investigation, never to apply double standards or abuse their powers only to unduely favour the former prime minister who was legally obliged to appear before the Supreme Court if he returned home. Mr. Thaksin is speculated to be granted bail during the court proceedings over the questionable Bangkok land deal which allegedly involved his spouse, Khunying Pojaman, who had earlier returned to Bangkok from overseas was given bail by the Supreme Court. Mr. Suriyasai agreed with Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej who asked that neither supporters or crfitics should appear at Suvarnabhumi airport when Mr. Thaksin touches the tarmac for the first time in 18 months. The globe-trotting former premier is speculated to return from Hong Kong Thursday morning and Mr. Samak suggests that either supporters or critics might inconveniences other airline passengers.
26 February 2008
The Nation
Samak stunned as Yongyuth's fate hangs in the wind
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej on Tuesday said he was stunned by the Election Commission's decision to disqualify House Speaker Yongyuth Tiyapairat on grounds of campaign violations, saying he would have to clarify the information before deciding a next move. The five-member EC ruled in a majority vote to petition the Supreme Court to launch a judicial review on alleged votebuying in Chiang Rai involving Yongyuth, EC secretary general Suthiphon Thaveechaigarn said. Once the high court has ruled to commence trial, Yongyuth is expected to suspend his speakership though he would retain in House seat as a partylist MP from Zone 1 covering the Upper Northern Region. His two deputies would act as interim speakers during trial. If he was convicted in the onetier, fasttrack review, he would lose his seat and face a fiveban from the electoral process. In trying Yongyuth who is concurrently a People Power Party executive, the EC is obliged to form an investigative panel to determine whether his alleged violations were linked to the party. Should the linkage be suspected, the EC must petition the Constitution Court to rule whether the dismantle the party.
25 February 2008
Manager Online
On 24 February 2008, a deranged man in Nong Khai got his wish. He lied down in front of a Nong-Khai-Bangkok train and was killed as the train passed over his prone body.
Thai Government Admits It Doesn't Care -
"Kill 'em!"
23 February 2008
Agencies
Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, who heads the Drug Suppression Committee, unveiled the plan to reporters yesterday, echoing Interior Minister Chalerm Yubamrung's announcement on the drug war on the last day of the government's policy debate on Wednesday. The government is to go ahead with a plan to revive the war on drugs campaign amid grave concern by human rights activists. Mr Samak said he will soon call a meeting with state-run agencies in charge of drug suppression to lay down the drugs policy. He said he will order the establishment of an ad-hoc committee to be responsible for it. Mr Samak shrugged off public criticism that the drug war by the government of deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra had violated human rights as it reportedly had claimed the lives of thousands of innocent victims. He showed no sympathy over those killed [Ed: 2,500 dead minimum, est. 1,500 at least with no evidence] during the Thaksin government's war on drugs, while pleading for public understanding over the need for a drugs policy. He said he was informed that there were only 59 drug suspects killed by the police and others had been killed by those in the same drug gangs. Had they been innocent, they would not have been killed, he said. Mr Samak suggested that those who had lost their relatives during the anti-drug campaign lodge complaints with police so wrongdoers could be taken to court. Somchai Homlaor, chairman of the NGOs Coalition for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders, said he will shortly call a meeting with his human rights networks to discuss the government's war on drugs. The networks will immediately launch campaigns against it, should the policy be deemed to put innocent lives at risk, he said. Mr Somchai urged Mr Samak and Mr Chalerm to respect principles of human rights and the rule of law. He added that international human rights bodies including the United Nations Human Rights Committee are keeping an eye on the policy. Angkhana Neelaphaijit, chairwoman of the Working Group for Peace and Justice, yesterday called on the Samak government to be careful when considering adopting a controversial policy. She also asked the government to re-investigate cases of people killed in the Thaksin government's drugs war. Mrs Angkhana said the government should make use of the information compiled by the Kanit na Nakhon fact-finding committee to make further investigations. The Kanit committee was appointed by former prime minister Surayud Chulanont. Meanwhile, the Justice Ministry will propose tracking the financial history of drug suspects and their families. Justice Minister Sompong Amornwiwat said the planned measure requires cooperation from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) and the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo). "We want to monitor the source of money [owned by drug suspects]. This may involve looking into the financial history of not only the suspects, but also their kin of three generations up and three generations down," Mr Sompong said during a meeting with the ONCB. He said that certain tax related measures will also be considered in the government's renewed efforts to stamp out narcotics. The minister said the measures will be proposed to the government's Drug Suppression Committee.
20 February 2008
Translated from Manager Online today
Warning of Limited Tsunami After 7.5 Richter Quake
Today at around 15:00 hrs., a major tsunami warning occured after the United States Pacific tsunami warning center reported a 7.5 Richter quake in Sumatra. In Indonesia the quake was measured at 6.6 Richter. The United States Pacific tsunami warning center indicated that the tsunami may not cause widespread devastation, but may cause damage within a 100 kilometer radius from the epicenter.
18 February 2008
Translated from Manager Online
Sisaket Police Ordered To Inspect Parked Vehicles
The orders are an outcome of the recent incident in Bangkok where a victim of auto theft went to the Bangkok Central Police station only to find his vehicle parked nearby and a policeman claiming to be the owner.
On 18 February 2008, media sources in Sisaket province reported that Sisaket provioncial police met in the main station's Savings Coop room to discuss vehicles parked near police stations. All attending police officials were ordered to strictly inspect and ascertain the status of all vehicles parked in or near police stations. Police indicated that the measures were to prevent citizenry from being defrauded - ostensibly by police being less than thorough about missing vehicles and where they are taken.
Given the intense debate in public and private that has taken place over the past few days after Thai prime minister Samak Sundaravej ignorantly declared that only one single "unlucky guy" had died in the massacre at Thammasart University on 6 October 1976, we are providing a link to the informative Thai language website on this horrible event that Samak still insists, even in Parliament, that only one person was killed. There may be increasing calls for Samak's resignation, but Samak is likely to survive for a temporary period until further anti-muzzling of the press groups decide to join the foray. The site contains lots of information as well as photos. Ed.
18 February 2008
Translated from Hi-Thaksin.net, former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra's website, item dated 18 February 2008.
"Chalerm got the job he waited for all his life..."
On www.hi-thaksin.net, website of the former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, a blasting attack on Thailand's new interior minister Chalerm Yubamrung appeared, citing the fact, according to Thaksin, that Chalerm got the highest prize in the government - outside the premiership, of course - with having invested the least.
The webpage entry begins,
"If you regard the days and hours spent in battling dictatorship to where democracy and victory have been delivered to the people, then Chalerm Yubamrung is the last, or almost the last, person involved in this. If you regard the days and hours in the sgtruggle that has just been finished, then Chalerm Yubamrung has gained the highest prize for the least investment.
If you regard spirit in the fight that overcame the dictatorship, then Chalerm Yubamrung is the least brave of them all."
See [here] for full Thai language report [here for Bangkok Post report], as well as editorial.
Observers indicate that Thaksin is incensed over Chalerm getting a spot that Thaksin had picked out for another favorite.
Chirmsak pins blame squarely on Jakrapob
Dr. Jerksak Pinthong
18 February 2008
The Nation
Former senator Chirmsak Pinthong yesterday released an article to the media blaming PM's Office Minister Jakrapob Penkair for the removal of his radio programme - and revealed the executive of the station had asked him to cover up the issue. Published on February 18, 2008 The Nation In the article, Chirmsak wrote that Saengchai Apicharttha-napat, a senior executive of production house Fatima, had told him about receiving a call from Jakrapob. The article alleges that Jakrapob told Saengchai the airwave concession contract would not be renewed as radio programmes must be changed according to the situation. Chirmsak says that Saengchai asked him what he could do to help the company from suffering any damage. "I asked him [Saengchai] during the conversation who was it [who called Saengchai]? He said clearly it was minister Jakrapob Penkair. He also said they knew each other and still contacted each other," Chirmsak wrote. The conversation took place on February 12, he wrote. He adds that two days later, Saengchai asked him to tell the media that there had been no call to put pressure and the decision was just out of the Fatima company's concern about the contract, to provide a "soft landing" for the company. Thakerng Somsab, who formerly co-hosted the radio programme and was the middleman between Chirmsak and Saengchai, yesterday declined to comment on Chirmsak's article. According to reports Saengchai contacted Thakerng first, who spoke to Chirmsak before Saengchai himself directly took up the issue with Chirmsak. Saengchai was not available for comment yesterday. Last week, the Fatima company executive joined a press conference with Public Relations Department director-general Pramoj Rathavinij denying involvement. Last week Jakrapob also denied any involvement in the removal of the radio programme. Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, in the beginning of his weekly programme yesterday, thanked Pramoj and Saengchai for clarifying the accusation against the government of interfering in the media. The premier said there was an attempt to frame the government. Chirmsak last Tuesday gave up hosting his daily radio talk show after criticising Samak for allegedly covering up the Thammasat University massacre of October 6, 1976. The programme, "Chirmsak's Views", was broadcast from 8-9pm on FM105, which is under the PRD. The programme was removed after Chirmsak read an excerpt from a book written by Veera Musigapong, a former Thai Rak Thai Party executive, which said Samak had distorted the truth surrounding the killings of student protesters at Thammasat University. He also read a transcript from Samak's speech to students in France in 1977 while he was interior minister, insisting that 48 people had died in the October 6, 1976 demonstration. Chirmsak started hosting the programme after the September 2006 coup. Sathien Viriyapanpongsa, Kornchanok Raksaseri The Nation
'Invisible hands' at work to destroy PPP'
18 February 2008
The Nation
Thai Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej yesterday threatened to retaliate against "invisible hands" he said were trying to destroy the People Power Party. Published on February 18, 2008 Samak made the accusation during his weekly "Talk Samak Style" show, broadcast on Channel 11 and Public Relations Department radio stations. He alleged that "invisible hands" had sent people to extort evidence of electoral fraud from witnesses and get the Election Commission to disqualify People Power MPs. "I will ask them why are you doing this and who ordered you? Do you want to destroy this party? I will get these people for sure. If I do not say this, they will not stop," he said.
After the show, Samak told reporters he had received a complaint that people in the provinces were being threatened even though the government had already been installed. He was referring to the people being witnesses in the electoral fraud cases against PPP candidates. "They have committed an offence. Issuing threats is not legal," he said. Samak refused to say if the people he accused were from the military. Samak's claim about invisible hands prompted Cam-paign for Popular Democracy secretary-general Suriyasai Katasila to accuse him of lacking responsibility and leadership. He said Samak must come forward and indicate who the "invisible hands" are. "By making such claims, he shows he is irresponsible and lacks leadership," he said. He said Samak must admit that the government did not get a smooth start because of internal problems, especially over the allocation of interests. "Outsiders gave the government a chance by accepting the election result, so it should make all efforts to work," he said.
[Feeling increasing public pressure] Samak said the invisible hands could be people in the PPP who tried to order Samak about and caused his frustration. While on air, the prime minister also attacked the media for several reports over the past week that he said were ill-intended to give the government adverse publicity. He blasted the coverage of the government's attempt to remove the 30-per-cent capital reserve measure, saying the media misled the public into thinking the government had tried to meddle in the Bank of Thailand's duties. He said he had assigned Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee to talk to the central bank about the measure. "He said it was so sensitive that he could not say anything. I said, give them two months and see its progress. Then there were headlines saying I tried to interfere by setting a deadline for them. This is a technique to put the government in a bad light," he said. He said another report the press tried to fabricate was that the party wanted to push for 111 former Thai Rak Thai executives to sit on the boards of state enterprises. He also accused the media of trying to create misunderstanding between the government and the Election Commission by reporting that the EC leaked the results of an investigation involving House Speaker Yongyuth Tiyapairat. "Actually, this EC has greatly contributed to the country by completing the general election without allowing any interference or causing any scandals," he said. He attacked coverage of the rise in salaries of government officials, saying: "Will anyone in the press die if they don't present this news?" Samak then retracted his statement and apologised for using strong language. "This is my style. I cannot help using abrasive language," he said.
Angry residents threaten to fire homemade rockets to disrupt flights on Feb 23
17 February 2008
Thai News Agency, other agencies
Thailand's Air Passengers Under Threat
Constructed photo illustrating threat
Angry residents around the Suvarnabhumi International Airport Saturday threatened to disrupt the flights to and from the airport by firing homemade rockets and releasing balloons on February 23.
Somchart Manathamsombat, a leader of the residents, said the people affected by noise pollution at the airport would give the government until February 23 to solve their problems or they would launch the bung fai or Isaan homemade rockets and balloons to disrupt the flights.
Somchart and some 100 representatives of the residents of housing estates around the airport held a press conference to demand the new government to ask the Airports of Thailand Plc to speed up paying affected people compensations.
Somchart said none of the people had received compensations so far.
The Nation
From the Bangkok Post of 17 February 2008:
A group of residents around Suvarnabhumi airport threatened to launch rockets and balloons to disrupt airborne passenger jetliners again next Saturday unless they are paid compensation money for noise pollution. At a noisy meeting on Saturday, the residents said they would give the Airports of Thailand exactly a week to start payments, or they would try again to disrupt flights at the New Bangkok International Airport. Around 100 residents invited the Thai media to the meeting, and called on the new government of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej to order the AoT to honour what they claimed were promises for money that never has come. Wanchart Manathamsombat, a key leader of the 32 noise-affected communities, told the media conference that residents will not invade the airport or attempt to stage any protests. Instead, he said chillingly, they plan to "seize the sky" from their homes. He refused to elaborate, but his supporters told reporters that residents planned to release balloons, set off fireworks and shoot off homemade Thai rockets similar to the ones used by northeastern farmers. Mr Wanchart, after calling the media and issuing the threat, then appeared to realise the import of his deadly warning, and refused to back his own words. "Please understand that we have no authority to stop any of the residents who were told only lies by the AoT. We will not be responsible for any action that may be taken on the day. It is an individual decision to protect his or her own rights."
The threat is not empty. In an incident widely unreported by the media last month, residents around the airport released more than 100 balloons in the sky. Luckily, airport authorities observed the action. They grounded all flights for more than two hours, and diverted incoming airliners away from Suvarnabhumi. There were no lives lost. Lat Krabang police have sent letters to all 32 communities claiming to be affected by the noise pollution, warning them not to repeat that act or take any other action that could endanger airliners or passengers. Mr Wanchart said the AoT last Nov 9 signed a formal agreement to buy homes from local residents who suffer through airplane departures and arrivals and send noise levels soaring above 70 decibels. No compensation has been paid to anyone, Mr Somchart said. Frustrated by the delay, the angry residents said they would release home-made rockets and large balloons into the sky to disrupt flights arriving and taking off at the airport. The rockets are known as "bung fai" in the northeastern Thai dialect and are capable of soaring hundreds of feet into the air. They freely admitted the threat would damage the country's image - never mind what would happen if they actually fired rockets and released balloons into aircraft flight paths. But the residents claimed they "had no choice" but to go ahead with the threats, because the AoT was insincere about solving the noise and compensation problems.
15 February 2008
Translated from government Public Relations Report, Nakhon Phanom
Master Plan for NKP
The Nakhon Phanom office of Royal Highways conducted a technical seminar on a master plan for local the royal highways network to enable local administrative agencies to have a useful master plan to use. The NKP local highways officials arranged the annual seminar at the Riverview Hotel at Nakhon Phanom, with Mr. Boonsanong Boonmee, provincial governor, presiding over opening of the scheduled event, at which some 200 people attended. The seminar was intended to provide further technical support for local administrative agencies to use a local development master plan, which has been a policy since 1993. This year, 2008, the government has a target of transferring ownership and responsibility of 6,100 kilometers of highways over to local administrative agencies, which will then have to budget for the highways’ maintenance, repair and development.
Published on February 14, 2008
The Nation
Ralph Boyce, Former US Ambassador To Thailand, Promoted
The Boeing Company yesterday named Ralph "Skip" Boyce president of Boeing Southeast Asia
Boyce will focus on strengthening the company's presence across the region and explore opportunities to in-crease the company's growth and productivity. He will be based in Singapore and report to Shep Hill, president, Boeing International. Boyce, 56, succeeds two retiring Boeing executives - Douglas Miller, Boeing Integrated Defence Systems vice president and leader of the Boeing Singapore office, and Paul Walters, who has led Boeing in the rest of Southeast Asia based in Malaysia."Skip is an experienced leader who possesses an in-depth knowledge of the region," Hill said. "His regional expertise will enable the company to capitalise on the emerging business opportunities in this strategically important market to Boeing."
Prior to joining Boeing, Boyce was a career member of the United States Senior Foreign Service. He served as US ambassador to Thailand, from January 2005 to December 2007. Before that he was ambassador to Indonesia, from October 2001 to October 2004, and deputy assistant-secretary of state for East Asia and Pacific Affairs, from August 1998 to July 2001. His other US government assignments included deputy chief of mission in Bangkok, deputy chief of mission in Singapore, and adviser to the deputy secretary of state, responsible for the foreign affairs bud-get. Boyce holds degrees from George Washington University and Princeton University and speaks four languages - English, French, Persian, and Thai. {KP Editor note: This is not the first time Boeing has sent a retired senior diplomat to run its Singapore office. Asia, despite being a market focus for Boeing, is also a major challenge given the competition also there.]
The Nation
14 February 2008
the Korat Post Online
Summary Translated from Manager Online 13 February 2008
Dr. Jermsak Becomes Early PPP Political Censorship Victim
Jakrabhop Penkair, foreground, acting in his capacity as pro-TRT/Thaksin
media censor, ordered removal of popular Mum Mong program hosted by Dr. Jermsak Pinthong [background image], the latter who is a highly credible politi
