|
|
Kornburi Farmers Fear Water Shortage
Despite 3.7 billion Baht paid out in water supply projects
27 February 2007
the Korat Post/local agencies
The municipality of Nakhonratchasima is holding discussions on solving water shortages. Loses agreement with Kornburi. Insists that a new public forum with the people of Kornburi has to be held, after having proceeded with projects costing 3,700 million Baht, but under protests from local farmers who won't have enough water for agricultural use.
The municipality of Nakhonratchasima is holding discussions on agreements and cooperation with government agencies, the private sector and provincial administration organizations to proceed with projects to solve consumer water supply problems within the Korat municipal district. Mr. Satiphongse Wongviboonsil, deputy mayor of Nakhonratchasima City, acted as chair of the joint discussion group that saw a suggestion that the Lam Chae reservoir be added as a raw water supply source, as well as a new water supply system to be built in the vicinity of Baan Mai Nong Bon, tambol Daan Kwien, Chokechai district. Throughout the entire 69 kilometer length of the water supply pipe. It will provide raw water distribution to agencies for processing into tap water for use by people living within the project area.
|
Russian Women Were Not Prostitutes
Authorities dispel rumors after Russian Embassy advisory
BANGKOK, February 26, 2007 (TNA) – Thai police investigators have produced some clues suggesting that a gang of foreigners may have been involved in the murder of two Russian tourists at Jomtien beach in the popular seaside resort of Pattaya on Saturday morning. Police Lieutenant General Assawin Kwanmuang, Region 2 Provincial Police commissioner, said he had instructed the police investigating team to seek an early arrest of the culprit after close examination of the victims' holiday snapshots taken while visiting some tourist attractions as well as security camera images which found that a gang of foreigners, in particular "The Chopper Gang", a local group in Pattaya, may have been involved in the killings. The police officer did not provide more details about the so-called gang, but indicated that mobile phone records of the two women are being thoroughly checked for further evidence as they used local simcards to call in and out prior to the killings. Tatiana Tsimfer, 30, and Liubov Svirkova, 25, [Photos] were found dead [Bangkok Post report] in their beach chairs at about 5am Saturday after being repeatedly shot by an unknown assailant, police said. Police said the two women were tourists who had arrived in Thailand on February 16 and were due to depart on March 1. Earlier police offered a Bt100,000 (about US$3,000) reward for the capture of the gunman. They also released a video monitor sequence of a tall man aged about 30, captured by security camera, parking a motorcycle at a beachside road, running to the two Russian women and shooting the pair before fleeing on the motorcycle. Gen. Assawin said Sunday that the women worked as telephone operators in Russia and were visiting Thailand for the first time with a tour group. They had noting to do with illegal transnational prostitution, according to personal records shown by a representative from the Russian Embassy. He also ruled out the possibility of robbery as the victims' belongings were left untouched. Pattaya, about 110 kilometres (70 miles) southeast of Bangkok, is popular among foreign holidaymakers. The beach resort attracts tens of thousands of Russian tourists every year. [Why Russians like Pattaya, why Pattaya likes Russians]
|
Expat hubbies urged to back Isan By Sumeth Wannapruek, Bangkok Post
25 February 2007
Bangkok Post
TAT wants them to promote tourism The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)'s Northeastern Office in Khon Kaen has launched a cultural tourism project that is hoping to transform expatriates married to Thai women from the Northeast into spokesmen for the region's tourist attractions. The office plans to wow the expatriate husbands with the region's tourist attractions in the hope that it will prompt them to spread the word about Isan to their friends and family back home. The married couples will be taken on a tour of famous attractions and will be shown traditional activities in Roi Et, Khon Kaen and Maha Sarakham between March 3 and 4. Nuan Sarnsorn, the director of the TAT's Northeastern Office Region 3, said the number of participants is limited to 15 couples. Each couple will be charged 1,101 baht to go on the trip and translators will be on hand to help the foreigners. ''In the future, we hope the foreigners, who are sons-in-law of Isan people, will volunteer themselves as spokesmen for our tourism campaign. ''They will gain first-hand experience during the tour, and hopefully they will tell friends and families back home to visit Thailand,'' Mr Nuan said. The tour itinerary begins with a visit to the famous Phra Mahathat Kaen Nakhon pagoda at Wat Nong Waeng in Khon Kaen's Muang district on March 3. The couples will be taken to an exhibition hall where historical information about Khon Kaen and artifacts are on display. They will then visit Ban Phaeng in Maha Sarakham's Kosum Phisai district, famous for its top-quality reed mats. The couples will also be invited to participate in Roi Et's annual merit-making festival called Boon Pha Wet, among a number of other activities.
|
Special Motorway to Open in 2012
24 February 2007
the Korat Post/local agencies
Despite political upheaval, political uncertainties and economic worries, and terrorism threats, the proposed Bang Pa-in to Nakhonratchasima Motorway seems destined to become reality. Mr. Chanchai Daechasthongse, lead civil engineer on the survey and design team, provided some background to local reporters during a February press conference in Korat held at the Royal Princess Hotel. Coincidentally Caterpillar Company was preparing a NE Road Show with its heavy construction equipment being displayed on the hotel's grounds.
The present schedule for this new 199 kilometer motorway is as follows:
1. 2006-2007 - survey and detailed design; 2. 2007-2008 issuance of Royal Decrees expropriating land for the route; 3. 2008-2009 finalize legal title to land; 4. 2010-2011 construction of motorway; 5. 2012 open for use.
|
 
Left rendering of suspended section bypassing Lam Takhong Reservoir.
|
Typical road pavement cross-section indicating pavement and should width, barrier fence. |
|
Aftermath - Somkid Jatusripitak In Emotional Resignation
Phiphop Thongchai, well-known pro-democracy advocate
in Thailand, seen on ASTV protesting Somkid's appointment.
BANGKOK, February 21, 2007 (TNA)
Former deputy prime minister and finance minister Somkid Jatusripitak on Wednesday announced his resignation as chairman of the committee tasked with explaining the sufficiency economy philosophy to foreign communities, saying he did not want to see the conflict over his appointment escalate into further political turbulence. Mr. Somkid announced his resignation at a Bangkok hotel Wednesday morning, saying he decided to quit for the sake of the nation's reconciliation and unity. "I decided to quit without a feeling of 'losing face', being embarrassed, hurt, or even angry. But national reconciliation is much more important than anything else. Without it (reconciliation), the nation's future is at risk," the former Thaksin aide said. Dr. Somkid was appointed late last week by Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont as the chairman of the Committee on Coordination and Strengthening of International Economic Relations in charge of preaching sufficiency economy to the international community. "I told the premier I will withdraw of my own accord to end the conflict. I do not want the conflict to widen rifts and become a burden to the premier," he said. Many critics and civic groups, particularly the People's Alliance for Democracy, had come out to show strong opposition to his appointment, citing he was an economic architect of the deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra government and one of the key supporters of Thaksinomics. Dr. Somkid reiterated he had neither an intention to dictate economic policy nor the hope of political gain in deciding to accept the post. He said he wanted the resignation to prove his stance that reconciliation must be given priority in this time of political crisis. Regarding criticism that he had been one of the most staunch supporters of Thaksinomics, he said that he had come to harbour an opposite way of thinking from that of former prime minister Thaksin. He pointed out he could not call it quits from the previous government because he could not leave the country's economy in crisis as he was in charge of economic affairs at that time. Dr. Somkid thanked Prime Minister Surayud for having given him an opportunity to serve the country as the sufficiency theory envoy, saying the premier proved himself through his appointment that he fully supported the reconciliation in the country. "I know that the premier will protect me if I opt to stay. But what good it will do for the country? Without any position, I am confident I can still serve the country," he said. Well-known as Mr.Thaksin's top aide, Mr. Somkid, who was deputy prime minister and commerce minister in the Thaksin administration toppled by the military last September, was appointed last Thursday as chairman of the International Economic Relations Committee. His first job as an economic adviser to the military-installed government was to explain Thailand's economic policy, especially the sufficiency economic theory, to two of its most important trading partners, Japan and China. His appointment has drawn opposition from anti-Thaksin groups, especially the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), as he was one of Mr. Thaksin's closest aides and was named by the former prime minister early last year as a possible successor. He quit the former ruling party, Thai Rak Thai, two weeks after the coup.
|
Arrests in the South
YALA, February 20, 2007 (TNA) - Three men have been detained in this southern border province in connection with last Sunday night’s series of deadly attacks that killed seven persons across the Muslim-predominantly region, a regional senior military officer said Tuesday. Lieutenant General Viroch Buacharoon, Fourth Army Region Commander who oversees military operations in the troubled region, told a media conference that the three suspects confessed that they were assigned to carry out the attacks. They also implicated others for involvement in the major attacks during Chinese New Year celebrations, Gen Viroch said, adding that one of the suspects staged the attack in Songkhla’s Thepha district while the others committed violent acts in Narathiwat’s Bacho district. The senior army officer also disclosed that the three men had been given drinks that contained narcotics and cough syrup before they carried out the attacks, similar to the April 28, 2004 incident. The general was referring to the incident in which over 100 militants were killed after nine hours of violent clashes between the authorities and insurgents in Pattani. Of these, 32 people were killed inside the Krue Se mosque after heavily armed security forces stormed into the holy place. The Internal Security Operations Command announced earlier that suspected militants launched 54 nearly simultaneous attacks on Feb 18 including 29 bomb blasts, 11 arson attacks on government buildings and schools and at least five shooting incidents. Last Sunday’s attacks were the first time the insurgents had simultaneously struck all four southern provinces - Yala, Narathiwat, Pattani and Songkhla. Violence in the insurgency-torn region has claimed some 2,000 lives in over three years of unrest.
|
Isaan Farmers Take To The Road
NAKHON RATCHASIMA, February 20, 2007
(TNA)
About 500 farmers from all 19 northeastern provinces have taken to a highway leading to the capital in a peaceful procession, repeatedly calling for the government to help them out with their debts owed to financial firms. Organised by the Assembly of Isan Farmers' Group leader Praphat Ngokesoongnern, the indebted Isan (Northeastern) indebted farmers, some proceeding on foot and others riding in about 30 trucks, have reached Nakhon Ratchasima where they will spend Tuesday night before proceeding into Saraburi province Wednesday morning. The farmers intend to rally outside Government House soon in an open-ended pursuit of government assistance. Other troubled farmers from the Central and Southern regions are expected to join the Isan farmers outside Government House. The demonstrators asked the government to be ''sincere'' in dealing with them and to live up to a cabinet resolution reached last month which they understood would somehow relieve them of their overdue debts. Despite the cabinet resolution, the financially-strapped farmers said, private creditors continued to collect funds from them. (TNA)
|
Cobra Gold Gets Green Light
From the Bangkok Post
19 February 2007
Military website, however, lists 18 April 2007 as "critical cancellation date" - that is, commitment to the exercises or cancellation. Thai government martial law may impact exercises.
Cobra Gold war games get green light By Wassana Nanuam
The United States has decided to go ahead with the 26th annual Cobra Gold exercise, which was put on hold following the Sept 19 coup and suspension of US military aid to Thailand. The deal-maker was the lifting of martial law across much of the country. There were doubts as to whether the annual joint military exercise would go ahead this year following the military coup that ousted the elected government headed by then prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra in September. But Supreme Commander Boonsrang Niumpradit said he had been informed by the US that the war games will take place as scheduled following the Council for National Security's decision to lift martial law in 41 provinces, including Bangkok. Other provinces, including those in the far South and most of the North and Northeast, are still subject to military restrictions. Gen Boonsrang said Washington's decision reflected the improving sentiment of the international community towards Thailand, particularly the US, now that the country was heading towards democracy, with the new charter being drafted and elections to be held soon. This year's operation, which is the 26th Cobra Gold exercise, will be carried out from May 8-18. Following the Sept 19 coup, Washington immediately suspended military cooperation and cut US$24 million (902 million baht) in military aid, including over 50 scholarships for military studies and training. US law forbids assistance to the government of a country where an elected leader has been deposed in a coup. The number of US soldiers taking part in the drill this year had not been confirmed, Gen Boonsrang said, adding the number might not be as high as the tens of thousands that normally join. Thailand and the US have been holding the exercise since 1982. Singapore has also been a regular participant in the exercise since 2000 but sends only a small number of troops. Last year 21 nations were invited to observe the exercise.
Election'to be' on schedule - IS?
BANGKOK, February 13, 2007 (TNA)
Thailand's military Council for National Security (CNS) has expressed its confidence that the nation's next general election will surely be held on schedule within this year and insisted that all its members will not play politics before or after stepping down from power. Speaking to reporters after the CNS meeting Tuesday, CNS spokesman Col. Sansern Kaewkamnerd disclosed that the meeting chaired by Council chairman and army chief Gen. Sonthi Boonyaratkalin discussed the timeframe of the new constitution drafting, which the CNS has closely coordinated with both the Constitution Drafting Assembly and the Constitution Drafting Committee. Progress has been done respectively with regard to the drafting process, and all CNS members are satisfied and confident that the draft will be complete and the general election will be held late this year as scheduled, said Col Sansern. Despite speculation of efforts to dump the charter draft in the referendum , the spokesman said, any fault lines that the process might encounter will be resolved by procedures already in place. Col. Sansern reaffirmed the military council will not intervene in the drafting of the new constitution, but will voice its opinion when the draft is complete as the Council is one of the bodies obliged to review it at that time. The CNS spokesman also insisted that no CNS members intend to enter politics or perpetuate their power through either politicians or political parties when stepping down. "The CNS has no desire to join with any political parties, no matter today or in the future," Col. Sansern said. Nonetheless, he said, if any military officers enter the political arena after their retirement, it's up to each individual to decide, but they must comply with the democratic rule and mechanism.
 |
Amy tells the press what she was wearing inside. That is, after telling them what she was not. According to one Thai casting agent whose comments appeared on a Thai language blog, Amy had come to him before to obtain acting roles but had instead been hired elsewhere. The agent said he advised Amy back then that to get a top part you have to improve your acting skills so you can play in any role - but that she didn't listen to him. He also said that Amy did have a great figure. |
|
Bra & Panties Were On...
From Manager Online 11 February 2007
12 February 2007
the Korat Post
Thai phenomenon Amy Sothiros Suriyawongse hurried to a media session to bury exposure seen 9 February 2007 at this year's Korat-based National Film Association awards. Apparently Amy was a bit underdressed by prudish Thai standards and the press played it up for all to read and hear.
"I was unruly when I was younger, but I am not going to disappoint my parents anymore." the starlett said while reassuring the Thai public that she had indeed been appropriately dressed. Altough not readily visible in the photo Amy brought inner clothing she claimed she had worn (both for 'the top' and 'the bottom', underneath the revealing outfit. However, one observer commented, just where the 'top' and 'bottom' were hiding must be the designer's secret.
Although sex, marital infidelity, corruption, loose morals and unethical behavior are officially frowned upon in Thailand, personal latitude is extensive. Peer pressure in Thailand comes down like a hammer on those who deviate from the illusion, but it doesn't stop the deviations themselves.
Adding further confusion during the press conference, however, Amy admitted to telling the press before that she was not wearing underclothes. Why did she say this? Amy replies, "To help the media." Well, it helped... |
|
 |
Dr. Suvit Yodmani, Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports, at Suranaree University of Technology 12 February 2007. He presided over a multi-group meeting on the Korat-based SEA Games 2007 scheduled for 6-15 December 2007.
Photo by the Korat Post. |
|
Games are on!
SEA Games Coordination
12 February 2007
the Korat Post
At a large meeting today, 12 February 2007 at Suranaree University of Technology (SUT), various committee and subcommittee members engaged in planning for the SEA Games provided views and updates on facilities and steps being taken to ensure readiness for this December's events, many of which will be held at the new $65 million sports comlex on Pakthongchai Road in Korat. Korat local PR has been under quiet press criticism for not disseminating information already, in Thai or English. Check our SEA Games link for additional details soon. |
|
 |
We got the logo not from the Thai Olympic Committee or Korat PR office, but from Wikipedia... |
|
Logo - but from Wikipedia!
SEA Games Coordination 'Bizarre'
8 February 2007
the Korat Post
We telephoned several SEA Games 2007-related agencies yesterday and today to obtain details about planning and execution of this important event scheduled for 6-15 December 2007. Thailand's Olympic Committee office, when we asked where we can find some English language information about SEA Games 2007, replied, "Go find it on Google!" To date Korat's own Public Relations office has not sent us one item on this event - everything has to be pried open with a crowbar. As well, although some government agencies have been working with staff for English guides and information for the event, again we have not been advised, consulted with or informed. With planning like this, trepedations may be in order. |
|
Thaksin's So-Called Democratic Election
8 February 2007
the Korat Post
For those who are a bit unclear about how Thaksin Shinawatra won big in the April 2005 'democratic' elections, look at the photo above, taken in Nong Kae Chang Community, meung district, Korat just before elections. Rather than being given a fair presentation of democratic choices they had, voters were encouraged strenuously to vote for Thai Rak Thai. Local officials colluded with the foray. Note the Thai Rak Thai logo on the main banner and on a poster inside the community building. No other political party logos were present, and many vehicles parked nearby had TRT logos and/or their drivers were wearing TRT jackets. All this was coordinated by compliant local officials doing the bidding of Thai Rak Thai to ensure election success. Voters never had a chance in 2005.
|
 |
A near-hypoberlic-paraboloid-type roofline accentuates Korat's new sports comlex's bicycle track. Inclines exceeding 45 degrees discouraged the photographer. |
|
$65 Million Starts to Show
Sports complex takes shape
7 February 2007
the Korat Post
Thanks to a telephone call to Khun Bancha, Korat's Director of Sports, we finally got access to the new sports complex being built just off thePakthongchai highway near Liptapanlop Park. Although one source indicated that there may be a two month or so delay to the previously expected June 2007 completion date, it seems as if there is a lot more than four month's work remaining. |
"I'll Be Back" ?
BANGKOK, February 3, 2007 (TNA)
Polls in Thailand indicate that the Thai public is wearying of military rule, says Time magazine, and with government missteps relating to capital controls and the Foreign Business Act, according to the news magazine, the Council for National Security "is looking less than bullet-proof." In a cover story which may serve to give the exiled former prime minister more positive international media attention than he ever received when he was in office, Time, the American weekly news magazine, this week gave Thaksin Shinawatra five pages of coverage in its February 12 issue, which hit newsstands in Bangkok on Friday. "Staying POWER," was the headline. The report was introduced with a cover text "Thaksin Shinawatra just wants to take it easy. But even in exile, Thailand's deposed leader still looms over his country's political landscape." The lead article opened humourously. "My new party will be called the Enjoy Life Party," Time quoted Mr. Thaksin as saying in Tokyo on January 25 – almost in the same breath as "I'm calling it quits". Describing his new party's platform as "Playing golf, travelling, relaxing, meeting friends," (Time said Mr. Thaksin was joking), "Don't be too serious about life," Time further quotes the deposed leader as saying. Describing the ex-leader as a 57-year-old billionaire, surrounded by doting aides "who still call him 'Your Excellency,'" ex-PM Thaksin is not convincing as a retiree. Thaksin's shadow "is enough to cause jitters among Thailand's ruling junta," Time states. The exile himself says that "Poor people are not important for the new government," and "if general elections were held today, Thaksin might very well win, courtesy of a silent majority rising up from their paddies and mountain villages." "Thailand's unelected generals fear the spectre of the exiled leader," according to the Time assessment. Quoting Foreign Minister Nitya Pibulsonggram, Time says that the Thai government is concerned that Mr. Thaksin, despite his loud disclaimer, "is not about to call it quits." "There was hardly any public outcry against the coup," commented Time Southeast Asia Bureau Chief Hannah Beech. Mr. Thaksin commented that the Thai people "are very disciplined. They are watching what [the new rulers] are doing, and when they will return democracy to the people. People's tolerance is limited," the ex-premier warned. Time says that the CNS is probing "52 cases of possible corruption or abuse of power" during Mr. Thaksin's premiership and may bring charges by the end of this month. Of course, Mr. Thaksin said he didn't do any of it and, "At any rate, corruption will not go away in Thailand—it's in the system." Alleged human-rights abuses, such as over 2,000 deaths in three months of Mr. Thaksin's 2003 war on drugs, "made many wonder whether the former police lieutenant-colonel had taken the law into his own hands." Last month the late Saddam Hussein was hanged for crimes against humanity in relation to 149 persons alleged to have died from the Iraqi dictator's abuse of power and of human rights. But, says Time, as Thailand's interim government "stumbles along, Thaksin seems content to adopt the role of happy retiree." He tells stories of sweet-talking "Thai massage therapists" working in his building in the Chinese capital for the necessary spices so he can cook omelettes and tom yum koong with real Thai taste. Is Thaksin coming back? "Thaksin and Thailand are not done with each other yet," Time concludes. It's not over until it's over.
|
Thai Army Again Accused of Torture in South
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AS-024-2007 February 2, 2007
(See Letter to the Editor)
A Statement by the Asian Human Rights Commission THAILAND:
Emergency decree legalises torture chambers A group of soldiers took Muhamud Arming Usoh from near his home on 30 October 2006, as he returned from work at a rubber plantation. They didn't produce any arrest warrant or evidence, or tell him where they were taking him or why. The emergency regulations in force over the southern provinces didn't require this of them. At an unidentified army camp, they allegedly kicked and hit him in the face and over the head with a steel bar; burnt cigarettes onto his neck, chest, ear and genitals; and, smashed beer bottles across his knees. Where the physical torture ended the psychological abuse continued: Arming, a Muslim, was allegedly chained to a dog for the night, before being taken to a bigger camp the next day. After the week was up, he was handed to the police and charged with murder and firearms offences. While nobody knows the number of torture victims in the south of Thailand--most are too afraid to speak out--the Emergency Decree explicitly encourages military personnel to make and use torture chambers. This is by virtue of its section 12, that "Competent officials shall be empowered to arrest and detain suspects for a period not exceeding seven days. Suspects shall be detained in a designated place which is not a police station, detention centre, penal institution or prison and shall not be treated as a convict." The rationale for this section is that the person in question is being called to assist the army or police with their inquiries, and is not (yet) a suspect or an accused, so he should not be kept in jail or police custody. In practice, what it means is that soldiers and police are to set up ad hoc detention centres outside of conventional facilities and regulations. These are places that by their very nature are run beyond the ordinary functioning of law, where anything can be done without the scrutiny of other government agencies and officials, lawyers, human rights defenders and others. In short, they are torture chambers. The security forces in Thailand are well-known for their use of such places, sometimes euphemistically referred to as "safe houses". The Asian Human Rights Commission has received information and issued appeals on behalf of persons who claim to have been held and tortured by the police in private houses established for that purpose, sometimes to extract information, sometimes to get money, sometimes both. The UN Human Rights Committee in its 2005 report to the government of Thailand expressed concern about "widespread use of torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment of detainees by law enforcement officials, including in the so-called 'safe houses'". It called upon the government to "guarantee in practice unimpeded access to legal counsel and doctors immediately after arrest and during detention", access to family members and "prompt and effective remedies to allow detainees to challenge the legality of their detention", incl uding by being brought before a judge. The emergency decree which has been in force since almost the same time as the UN committee gave its findings is an extraordinary step in the opposite direction because it has legalised what before was simply customary, and has removed even the limited safeguards that exist in police lockups and jails in Thailand. Those safeguards exist for the purpose of protecting detainees from abuse; in their absence, there can be nothing other than abuse. By ordering that conventional facilities not be used, and by mandating the use of other locations, the emergency decree is guaranteeing the use of torture, extrajudicial killing and forced disappearance, and allowing the perpetrators to hide behind multiple walls of anonymity and impunity. If anybody in Thailand wants a lesson on the consequences of running informal detention facilities, they need look no further than Sri Lanka. In the 1970s and 80s exactly the same methods were used there, also ostensibly to combat insurgency. The consequences were mass torture, killings and forced disappearances: at least 30,000 persons went through army camps and never came back. Arrest, detention at "designated places"--which also were not police stations or prisons--and torture were intrinsically linked, as they are in Thailand today. The 2001 final report of the official Commission of Inquiry into Involuntary Removal and Disappearance of Certain Persons (All Island) stated that out of "some 654 complaints by persons who had been involuntarily removed or unlawfully arrested and detained" that it had received "most of them complained of assault and torture while under detention" resulting in lasting psychological damage. As in Thailand today, what most enabled the abductions, torture and killings there was the dismantling of safeguards and the confusing of responsibility for detention among the police, military and other agencies. The continued application of the Emergency Decree over the southern provinces of Thailand makes nonsense of the government's pretensions to favour the rule of law. It is the rule of law inverted, the defiance of all principles upon which rational states are organised. It is a gross breach of international law that has rightly been described by the UN Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial killings as making it possible "for soldiers and police officers to get away with murder"; to which we can add, get away with arbitrary detention; get away with torture; and get away with forced disappearance. It will do nothing for the people of Thailand other than lead them further down the bloody road that the people of Sri Lanka have been led since two decades ago; a road from which there is no easy return. The government must lift the Emergency Decree over the southern provinces now, before it is too late, and end the legalisation of torture chambers in Thailand.
|
Nong Bua Lamphu Native Beheaded in South
Insurgents behead ice cream vendor, attack soldiers
PATTANI, February 1, 2007 (TNA)
Suspected insurgents shot an ice cream vendor and beheaded him in this southern border province Thursday, and ambushed soldiers in Pattani and Yala. The 45-year-old ice cream man was shot dead and beheaded in Pakaharang sub-district, a so-called red zone area, where the insurgency is active. The victim, Weerachai Uttaraniyoung, from Nong Bua Lam Phu province in the northeast, was mounted on his ice cream cart when he was shot from behind. Police are searching for his head, which was taken away by his assailants. Meanwhile, a roadside bomb exploded in Pattani's Maikaen district when two Humvees carrying 10 soldiers were passing a hidden explosive device. No one was wounded in the incident. In Yala, suspected insurgents ambushed a pick-up truck carrying six border patrol police officers. The police exchanged gunfire with the attackers, who then withdrew into the jungle. Pol. Lt-Col. Wanna Boonchai, wounded in the incident, was taken to hospital. Meanwhile, in Narathiwat, suspected insurgents downed about 60 rubber trees and five rambutan trees belonging to a villager in Ruso district. Police said that at least eight people were involved in felling the trees "to cause trouble".
|
"Suwat's Birthday et. al... Coincidences"
In photos (Korat Post) above, sign announcing Film Awards on 9 February in front of new Punjadara Hotel, right Khun Somchai and Khun Soontorn, top right photo front of lobby.
28 January 2007
Tthe Korat Post
Somchai Chatpattanansiri dispelled talk around town that the scheduled 9 February 2007 Thailand Annual Film Association Awards (Supannahong Awards) ceremony to be held in Korat were planned to benefit vested interests (his new hotel the Punjadara, located near Five Star Entertainment Center.
The former Korat MP, former local Chamber president gave a detailed explanation ( ) to board members of the Mass Communication Ally Federation of Nakhonratchasima on 27 January 2007 at the hotel (for photos of hotel). On 27 January 2007, the Mass Communication Ally Federation of Nakhonratchasima (MCAFN) held its regular annual meeting to elect the city's Man of The Year. Two special guests were present at the meeting - former Korat Chamber of Commerce President and MP Khun Somchai Chatpattanasiri, and Khun Bumroong Wasontakorn, President and Managing Director of Korat Cable,also president of Thailand's National Cable Operators Association. The meeting was chaired by Khun Soontorn Junrungsee, owner of Korat Printing and Korat Daily newspaper, and currently one of Thailand's 100 drafters of the new Constitution. After a delayed start, the meeting took off. At the beginning of the meeting, Khun Somchai, who is also deeply involved in the entertainment business in Thailand, provided a detailed explanation and background to developments leading up to media reports that the planned 9 February 2007 Korat-based National Film Association awards were being held at the Punjadara Hotel and on Suwat Liptapanlop’s birthday to politically benefit vested interests. His Thai language explanation as-recorded will be placed online briefly. In summary, however, Somchai indicated that the hotel had been under construction/planning for some ten years, but with the 1997 economic crisis it was delayed. Thus, the hotel was always on the burner. Secondly, he indicated, the coincidence with Suwat’s birthday was unplanned and not at first recognized. Given some political undertones that might be seen, Somchai said, there were high-level discussions which finally led to agreement to proceed. Then, however, Somchai indicated, there was a funding glitch. Initial estimates of the movie award bash were around 4-5 million Baht. When this was soon raised to about ten million, it caused some delay and rethinking. But given the huge public relations advantages, Somchai said, everyone agreed to proceed. The Mall, Korat, was willing to contribute two million Baht, but wanted the event held at the Mall. Because this was not possible (it will be held at Suan Rak park just down from the Thao Suranaree monument), the Mall cut its contribution to one million, Mr. Somchai said. After further explanation and discussion, the MCAFN group, at the beginning chaired by outgoing president Soontorn Junrungsee, went over its annual board meeting agenda, including the main one of nominating and electing the Man of The Year. Again after considerable discussion, it was finally determined that the 2006 Man of the Year (although he was not in Korat during 2006) is to be former Nakhonratchasima governor Pongpayome Wasaputi, currently Permanent Secretary of the Thai Ministry of Interior. The awards ceremony will be held on 28 February, the group’s traditional day for the awards. The Korat Post’s nominee for the award, Khun Kamron Krobnoparat, Managing Director of Boonthai Machinery Complex Co., Ltd. Khun Kamron only received one vote (ours).
|
26 January 2007
Translated & Edited from Manager Online
National Film Association Awards - 9 February 2007 in Korat!
Somchai far right in left photo, Suwat left in right photo with Jordanian special adviser to Jordanian King at podium. New political benefit rumors denied.
Local movie and movie theater magnate Somchai Chatpattanasiri (MARKO,.near Korat's main railway station), former Chatpattana Party MP and said to be extremely close to Thaksin Shinawatra (ousted Thai prime minister) denies 'celetrating- Suwat Liptapanlop's birthday. Suwat, former MP himself with Chatpattana Party that he dissolved in favor of joining Thai Rak Thai, has been relatively immune from name-mentioning since the 19 September 2006 anti-TRT coup. Although not born in Korat province, Suwat is regarded as a favorite son and benefactor.
26 January 2007
Funding problems a consideration in imminent arrangements for Thailand’s 16th National Film Association Awards [categories {Award categories - Best picture, best director, best actor, best actress, Best supporting actor, best supporting actress, best screenplay, best makeup, best costume, best art direction, best original score, best original song, best sound, best film editing, best cinematography, best visual effects.}, English but rest of page in Thai] to be broadcast live from Korat on 9 February 2007 with Suwat Liptapanlop, former deputy prime minister and final Chatpattana Party leader as presiding master of ceremonies. Somchai Chatpattanasiri, formerly Chatpattana Party MP and former Korat Chamber of Commerce president, has announced that Thailand’s 16th annual National Film Association Awards [Supannahong Awards] will be held in Nakhonratchasima on 9 February 2007. According to the prominent businessman, the event is significant for the city because it is huge and will attract further interest in Korat. In a recent media interview, Somchai stated that there was no desire to obtain any political advantages from the arrangements nor is he desirous of any. Of the 9 February 2007 event, Somchai said, “Our Korat is in favor of this event, because it’s huge and nationally live broadcast on television. There are not many events like this held. So it provides Korat with an excellent public relations opportunity and shows our ability to arrange a huge affair like this that ranks up there on the scale of important Asia events. Besides, it benefits the people in general by promoting tourism. As to the 9 February date, it was determined by the National Movie Association and had nothing to do with Suwat [Liptapanlop] birthday. When it was realized that the date was indeed Suwat’s birthday, then there was some discussion. And Suwat himself was a bit uneasy that the coincidence might cause some problems, but we decided to proceed anyhow.” Somchai then addressed the issue of allegations of budgeting problems. “In regard to the budget for this national event, estimated at around ten million Baht, we planned this event with seven million Baht coming from the local administration and as for the rest, the association will handle it. But it depends on whether or not local sources will provide more funding. We’ll see. The local administration has several procedural problems in hiring and making other arrangements. As to other allegations that I will benefit directly from the event, whereby all the movie stars, directors, producers and others will stay at the new Panjadara Hotel, well the hotel itself was really first started to go up in 1997. The Asian Contagion economic crisis arose and we dropped the project for ten years. It has just now come back and will be 100% completed by the time the event is held on 9 February 2007. As to income from the guests staying for the event, it’s only some 50,000 Baht or so in room rentals. That’s not a lot of money.” In ending the interview, Somchai said that the latest news was that the movie association had met and reconfirmed its plans to proceed with the 9 February 2007 16th Annual golden Phoenix Awards at the hotel.
|
Alcohol Ad Ban Faces The Axe
BANGKOK, January 24, 2007 (TNA)
Thailand's Food and Drug Administration will revoke its order [this is the 2nd time] totally banning the advertising of alcoholic beverages next month, FDA secretary-general Siriwat Tiptaradol said on Wednesday. The FDA's move is to comply with the recent Cabinet instruction that the state agency must act according to the Council of State's resolution that the FDA had no authority to impose the ban. In November last year, the Ministry of Public Health proposed a total 24-hour ban on all forms of advertising for beer, wine or hard liquor on TV, radio and print ads through a regulation issued by the FDA. But the proposed order, which was due to take effect on December 3, 2006, hit a major snag when the Council of State invalidated it, arguing that the FDA did not have authority to do so in the first instance. The FDA-issued ban has prompted a fierce protest on the part of Thailand's giant breweries, as well as liquor importers and distributors, while the ban supporters have pressed the interim government to use its power to help it pass objections. Even though it stood firm backing the ban at the beginning, the Cabinet in its recent meeting resolved in favour of the Council of State. Dr. Siriwat said the FDA board will meet early February to consider officially lifting the ban. Asked about the next move the FDA will take to control advertising for alcoholic beverages, the FDA chief said he did not think any agencies would like to carry forward this issue. It must be held on until a new alcohol control bill is enacted and enforced. Regarding the suggested possibility of instructing the Public Relations Department to extend the hours for an alcohol ad ban on TV from the 10pm-5am at present to a longer period, Dr. Sirawat said that a further order needed to be issued, which would cause more difficulty. He also noted that it appeared that the liquor industry is powerful enough to hinder any attempt to ban alcohol ads.
|
The following appeared in the 2000 issue of the Korat Post. A brief update on the project follows.
A “giant leap forward” might describe the announcement, on 11 December 1999, at the Rajapruk Hotel, that a new museum project will be soon underway, at leat in terms of pinning down design and locating funding. This estimated 120 million baht structure, complete with grounds and facilities, was introduced by project sponsors and supporters at a press conference on 11 December 1999 at the hotel. The General Chatichai Choonhavan Foundation, the project’s main sponsor, was joined by high-ranking dignitaries, members of the press corps, and interested visitors at the first contemporary art exhibition held in Korat. The Rajapruk Hotel provided several faciliteis, including its grand ballroom, to host the two-week exhibition. Later in the evening on December 11, suporters and guests were invited to a social gathering, where music was provided, to view further presentations, listen to project details, and witness deputy prime minister and minister of Health Korn Dhabbaransri convocate the project with a home-town grassroots speech. The deputy prime minister spoke for some time on his Korat roots, and concern for ensuring that the city’s culture is preserved and representated in a permanent and meaningful manner. He expressed appreciation to the General Chatichai Foundation 4. for sponsoring the project. At the end of his speech, he presented 100,000 baht encouragement” to the General Chatichai Foundation’s chairman, Professor Kraisak Choonhavan, to help in carrying out this important project, as well as to demonstrate his support for it. After the main speeches were concluded, a ceremonial ice-carving was held where the dignitaries were invited to help carve out symbolic support of the project. Lady Boonryan Choonhavan, widow of the late General Chatichai, was one of those enthusiastically carving at the meter-and-a-half tall ice blocks. Professor Kraisak Choonhavan, Governor Yothin Metchanan, and many others took part in this ceremony. Inside the actual area of the art exhibition were various types of art for display, including scultpures in brass and steel, paintings in oil, water, ink, mixed motif. Also on-hand were artists who did on-the-spot renderings of special guests as the guest sat motionless for a few minutes. The fees for these services, as well as an income derived from the sale of paintings and artwork, will go toward the design and construction costs involved with the new museum. Those interested in learning more about this project should contact Bangkok General Chatichai Choonhavan Foundation, tel. 02-617-2000.
Update The 9 January 2007 issue of the Thai language local newspaper Korat Daily contained an update on the MOAC project. This is the article, translated. New provincial knowledgeable sources “Choonhavan” Arts Museum starting to move. Korat municipality will be host and will have to cough up funds too! A working committee has been set up and a plan designed but not finalized. A tunnel might be built from the museum all the way from Thao Suranaree monument. Dr. Cherdchai hopes that the new project will be a center for tourism information and art. But the committee members are concerned about the project administration, fearing failure. A study group chaired by deputy governor Sumete Sripongse has proceeded with a design for the new museum, and has called meetings for committee members to discuss the project. Several suggestions arose that will impact the timeline and design of the project. One suggestion was that the museum had to conform with local culture and traditions, rather than be more contemporary as the original 2000 proposal had suggested. Another idea, cited with a reservation that the element might impact the city heart’s existing architecture, was to build a tunnel all the way from Thao Suranaree monument to the new museum. The latest news was that more meetings will be scheduled to thrash out details.
The Nation
15 January 2007
Democracy "Doomed" Under New Charter
THAMMASAT DEBATE - Thumbs down for the next charter Legal, other experts slam drafting process and warn public not to expect political reforms. The constitution-drafting process is a "joke" and will not lead to political reform, legal experts and civil rights activists declared yesterday. The public will soon realise the new charter will benefit only coup leaders, the elite, and technocrats, and not the majority, they asserted.
Union for Civil Liberties secretary-general Pirote Polpetch told a public gathering at Thammasat University yesterday that the most important factor would be control of public information. Broadcast news media under the new constitution is likely to remain in the hands of the State and those sympathetic to it, he said. "The news media has proven to be the best political tool for people in power to oppress opponents," Pirote said. "A constitution to be written by technocrats and other coup leaders' 'yes' men will not delegate the airwaves to serve the public interest." How the charter holds politicians accountable to the law and the people they represent is another key issue, Pirote said. He noted that the 1997 People's Constitution made it difficult to launch investigations into corrupt politicians, too. "The Thaksin regime brought failure to the accountability system, and political reform must seriously address this. We need a new process in which people can directly take politicians to court without having to work through bureaucratic red tape." Federation for Democracy chairman Weng Tojirakarn called the constitution-drafting process a "joke". Coup leaders are in full control, he said. "The constitution is a joke drafted by a council of puppets," Weng said. "Most of the council members are bureaucrats who have been selected by an undemocratic process. For example, the selection of the 200 drafters from 1,982 candidates was not held by secret ballot. How can those who agree to such a process produce a democratic charter?" Thammasat University's Law Faculty deputy dean, Assoc Prof Prasit Pivavatnapanich, agreed a new charter would not result in meaningful political reform because technocrats and legal experts would dominate the drafting process and kow tow to the power of the coup leaders. "It's the nature of technocrats to work for whoever is in power, not the people," he said. "Even though there is a referendum process for people to decide if they accept a new charter a 'no' answer will not mean anything because the junta is in power and can dust off an old charter and impose that," Prasit said. People should not be surprised to see few mechanisms to ensure public involvement in the legislative process. Pirote said the new charter would continue to place legislation-writing power in the hands of the government and Parliament. Absent too will be mechanisms giving people a say in public policy and decision-making over mega-projects as well as natural-resource management, he added. National Human Rights Commissioner Jaran Ditthapichai - who recently formed the Friends of the 1997 Constitution Group - encouraged people to "wake up" from the illusion "men in uniform" had rescued them from political and social turmoil. "I cannot agree to have someone call himself a man of morality and sufficiency if he built a fancy house in a forest reserve," Jaran said. He said since the New Year's Eve bombings it was clear the Council for National Security (CNS) had no intention of returning democracy to Thailand within one year as promised. "Prolonged martial law, the attempt to control the news media and other violations of civil rights and liberties all point to the fact that the coup leaders enjoy their power and want to hang on to it," Jaran said. Friends of the 1997 Constitution concludes that the best solution is to halt the charter-drafting and hold an immediate election using the 1997 Constitution. But Pirote wants it to continue so the public learns by "disappointment" that it must stop trusting people in power to have all the answers. Meanwhile, former prime minister Chuan Leekpai said yesterday that there should be no room on the 35-member core Constitution Drafting Committee for those who merely want a position of note and treat the job as a hobby. "This is a difficult mission and [the drafters] have to be devoted over the six months [designated for drafting the charter]. Those who really have no time to devote should avoid this job. This is not a hobby that you can do when you have free time from your day job," Chuan said. The Democrat Party's chief adviser said drafters should have excellent knowledge of Thailand's democratic development and its 17 past constitutions. He said the flaws and strengths of those charters should be studied for ideas in writing the latest one. Chuan disagreed with a proposal that a particular constitution should be referred to when drafting the new one. The 100-member Constitution Drafting Assembly will select 25 members of the drafting committee and the CNS will appoint 10 others. Democrat Party spokesman Ong-art Klampaiboon warned the CNS not to appoint people with connections to the "old power clique" or those not trusted by the public. Nantiya Tangwisutijit Bancha Khaengkhan The Nation
|
Diplomatic Passport Withdrawn
BANGKOK, January 10, 2007 (TNA)
Thailand has revoked the diplomatic passports of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife, according to a statement issued on Wednesday by the kingdom's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Under a headline stating "Foreign Ministry has revoked Diplomatic Passports of Pol. Lt. Col. Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday evening issued the following statement: "Taking into account of the appropriateness and changed circumstances relating to national security considerations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has revoked the Diplomatic Passport of both Pol. Lt. Col. Thaksin Shinawatra and Khunying Potjamarn Shinawatra pursuant to the Regulation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Passport Issuance of 2005. The Ministry has, yesterday (January 9, 2007), instructed both the Royal Thai Consulate General in Hong Kong and the Royal Thai Embassy in London to inform the parties of the Ministry's instruction." "Notwithstanding," according to the Foreign Ministry announcement, "both Pol. Lt. Col. Thaksin and Khunying Potjamarn, are still able to travel with their ordinary passports." Thaksin was attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York when Thai military leaders staged a bloodless coup d'etat on September 19. Currently in Hong Kong, the ex-prime minister has been living in London, Bali and Beijing. The military-installed government of Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont suggested that Thaksin or his close aides were to blame for the eight coordinated New Year's Eve bombings which left three persons dead and 43 injured, including nine foreigners. Mr. Thaksin has denied any connection to the attacks.
Determined Changes Creating Backwater Scenerio?
BANGKOK, January 9, 2007 (TNA)
The chairman of the Federation of Thai Capital Market Organisations warned Thailand to brace for a halt in new foreign investment (See) and the gradual withdrawal of foreign investment because the amendments to the Foreign Business Act passed by the Cabinet Tuesday are construed as unwelcoming signs. Dr. Kongkiat Opaswongkarn added that foreign-invested companies operating in the retail, automobile and telecommunications sectors will be those hardest hit by the amendments which restrict foreign ownership and voting rights to 50 per cent. The federation executive said the changes -- subject to final approval by the military-appointed National Legislative Assembly -- are deemed "unwelcoming" signals from Thailand to foreign investors. "I believe foreigners won't put more money in Thailand as a result of apprehension over these new rules. At the same time, those already here would have to leave to comply with the cap and there will be very few Thai investors who are financially capable of filling those gaps," he said. Dr. Kongkiat said the Thai currency and the stock market are likely to bear the brunt of the move as a consequence of such moves seen as hostile to foreign investment. Equity research analyst Thanomsak Saharatanachai of Pattanasin Securities said a host of negative factors, including the bombs during New Year and the latest move on the Foreign Business Act are likely to slow the country's economic growth by up to one per cent this year. Operating profits of listed companies are also likely to fall. Yet even these projected profits could disappear in the light of political certainties, including the constitution drafting being completed on schedule to pave the way for general elections.
|
Year 007 Promising Unrest in Thailand
By Manager Online
8 January 2007
Security Officials Currently Very Strict AFP/Time/Herald Tribune –
Foreign press reports analysts viewing Thailand after the Bangkok bombings one week ago have brought Thailand back into political chaos and crisis, as well as giving rise to skepticism whether the military will be able to restore democracy or not. The International Herald Tribute reported in the form of analysis that bombings that occurred in Bangkok at the end of this last year are a signal of a difficult beginning for the new year for Thailand, as the military, police and community leaders are all in disarray prepared to battle one another to safeguard Thailand’s future. This news analysis referred to words of Mr. Surin Pitsuwan, formerly Thai foreign minister, Democrat Party, who viewed “This country is in chaos” whereby old factions have to find new ways of joining with one another, whereby the group in power at this time is in a state of bafflement. When reconsidering the facts in different matters that things are not peaceful and calm like they thought things would be. AFP news reported news along the same lines. The report cited an opinion of Mr. Titinan Pongsuttirak, professor of political science at Chulalongkorn University, who said that he viewed what’s happening as a continuing crisis, and as confusion and chaos and as a result from what occurred last year. Mr. Titinan stated that the bombings that occurred showed that the coup had already failed. “They proceeded with a determined coup. It was a coup that allowed Thaksin and like-minded factions off the hook. As to those who caused these terrorist incidents, AFP said that many analysts, such as Mr. Tavee Suritkul, Sukhothai University Political Science Rector who viewed that it might have been the work of police or military associated with Thaksin who lost power but Thaksin may not have been involved directly. When Time magazine stated that despite in the beginning when suspicions pointed toward southern Muslim factions, they had never before planted bombs outside the southern region. Time also quoted words from Pranchaesaka Lawae-Davis, of a regional Asian group International Crisis Group (ACG) who said that this time it was not likely to be insurgents from the southern region who were still active in regions under their control, and that if they had decided to attack targets in Bangkok, they would chose those directly connected with the government, and not public places as occurred. AFP reported that many analysts feel concerned that current unstable conditions in Thailand might make the military delay drafting of the constitution and reschedule elections that were promised to be held this coming October. This report cited words by Mr. Patithan Wattanayakorn, with the Chulalongkorn University school of political science who said that if the bombings were a single occurrence then the military would be able to restore the situation and the schedule for drafting the constitution could be kept. “But it’s clear that if bombings continue then the military will have to do something decisively, such as stage another coup.” A news analysis from the Herald Tribune said the same thing, that political analysts and diplomats were fearful bombings would affect the military administration in a way to strengthen its hand and might reverse democracy in Thailand. The Herald Tribune pointed out that reversion to tough military rule might be what certain factions in Thailand wanted. “But forceful measures will bring international protests and will possibly negatively impact investment in the country. As well, it might increase danger of a response from the population becoming a popular democratic movement which currently has voice throughout Thailand, joining with factions supporting Thaksin – something that should not happen, to protest against the government.
January 5, 2007 :
Last updated 05:31 pm (Thai local time) The Nation
Kalasin Resident Arrested in Bangkok for Fraud
Danish fugitive arrested in Thailand Danish fugitive arrested in Thailand Thai immigration police have arrested a 30-year-old Danish man who will be deported to his home country to face fraud charges, police said Thursday. Martin Damslund Jensen was arrested in downtown Bangkok Wednesday, after a request from the Danish embassy. Police said he was wanted on an arrest warrant issued by court in Herlev, northwest of Copenhagen. Jensen fled to Thailand in November last year, after he was accused of fraud and falsifying documents in Denmark. Police said he bought a car with counterfeit documents, and defrauded businesses of about 30 million baht (840,000 dollars) in August 2006. The suspect was living with his Thai wife in the northeastern province of Kalasin before he travelled to Bangkok Wednesday and was apprehended. Agence France-Presse
BANGKOK, January 4, 2007 (TNA)
Politicians who have lost power are behind Sunday's Bangkok bombings, with an aim to discredit the military-installed government and the Council for National Security (CNS), Defence Minister Gen. Boonrawd Somtas reiterated on Thursday. Speaking to journalists after visiting victims at a hospital here, Gen. Boonrawd reiterated earlier statements made earlier by Prime Minister Gen. Surayud Chulanont and CNS chairman Gen. Sonthi Boonyaratkalin, saying security officials had held meetings and agreed that those who had potential to plant bombs in the city were not too many and those who had sufficient ability to create chaos in the country were police and military officials. Gen. Boonrawd said he had high confidence that the wrongdoers would be apprehended but it could be difficult to find the masterminds. So far neither the prime minister nor the CNS chairman had said that former prime minister Gen. Chawalit Yongchaiyudh was involved in the bomb attacks, Gen. Boonrawd said, adding that he could not verify reports that Gen. Chawalit received Bt1.5 billion (over US$42 million)from deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra to create unrest in the country. Mr. Thaksin was ousted in the September 19, bloodless coup by military leaders, who gave themselves the name of Council for National Security (CNS). On Wednesday, Gen. Chawalit lashed out at the CNS for trying to link him to the New Year's Eve bombings which killed three persons and wounded 38 others, including nine foreigners. He also challenged authorities to issue an arrest warrant for him. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Aree Wong-araya denied rumours that the bomb attacks were created by the interim government and the CNS, saying that the government decided to administer the country for the benefit of the country and not for its cronies and its aim was to solve persisting problems. Mr. Aree said the Foreign Ministry should accelerate explaining the general situation in Thailand to foreign countries so that they would better understand the real picture.
|
Thai Rak Thai's Name Unspoken
BANGKOK, January 1, 2006
(TNA)
Politicians who have lost power are behind the planting of bombs which exploded on New Year's Eve evening in the Thai capital with an aim to create chaos and problem in the Kingdom, Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont said on Monday.
"Based on various reports of intelligence agencies and evidence available, it was the work of people who lost political benefits, but I cannot clearly say which particular group was behind it," the prime minister said. Speaking to a press conference after meeting with senior security officials at the Internal Security Operations Command early Monday, Surayud said his government was deeply sorry for the incidents in which innocent people died, and property was damaged despite the measures concerned officials had planned to prevent any untoward incidents. "These incidents have been copied from somewhere else," said Gen. Surayud who was installed by the military coup makers following their ousting of the elected government of prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra on September 19. "They were created by those who have lost power. The perpetrators wanted to have a political impact and make Thai people feel political instability." Surayud, however, declined to say which particular group of politicians was responsible for Monday's nine bombs which killed three persons and wounded 38 others, including nine foreigners. The prime minister said he believed that the explosions in the capital were unrelated to the ongoing violence in the deep South in which insurgents have been attacking officials and civilians on an almost daily basis since Jan 4, 2004 when militants raided an army depot and made off with weapons in Narathiwat province – one of the three troubled southern border provinces. Relatives of those who were killed in the blomb blasts and those injured will receive financial assistance from the government, said Surayud, adding that the Foreign Ministry would this afternoon explain the incidents to foreign diplomats stationed in Thailand. Meanwhile, Suwit Yordmanee, tourism and sports minister, said the bombings would definitely have a "short-term negative effect on tourism". Also, he said they will impact foreign investment in Thailand.
31 December 2006
Korat's mayor facing criminal charges
Local reports
Late December 2006
Mayor Cherdchai Chokerattanachai of Korat municipality currently faces criminal charges connected with burying ancient law-protected relics [old stones dating back to King Narai the Great] in the city's downtown makeover of the Lady Mo rotunda.
Local newspapers reported the story, complete with legal complaint no. and names of government representatives who filed the complaint. The mayor charges that the municipality had done nothing wrong, and that reports were unfair. The case is under investigation, with testimony being given to police.
|
What About Obstruction of Justice?
See editorial
27 December 2006
The Nation
TSUNAMI CASH ROW Foreign diplomats 'acted on rumour' Diplomats' cash claims 'undermined Thailand's good will' A senior Foreign Ministry official yesterday said diplomats of seven countries should have double-checked information with Thai authorities before alleging the misuse of Bt60 million in donations given for identification of tsunami victims. Kulkumut Singhara na Ayutthaya, director-general of the Department of European Affairs, also expressed "serious concern" over the issue, saying it had adversely affected Thailand's public image in the international community. "They [embassy officials] should not have relied on only rumours [about the alleged misuse of money] and reacted. They should have submitted a request to the relevant Thai agencies seeking clarification on the spending," he said. He said the issue had undermined Thailand's good will and all efforts made in helping tsunami victims throughout the past two years. "All the efforts and everything are now completely wiped out merely by a rumour suggesting the misuse of the money," he added. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont yesterday summoned national police chief General Kowit Wattana to discuss the diplomats' allegations. Though polite, a letter signed by the diplomats requested that "a reputable and qualified private accountancy company" conduct an internal audit of the funds covering the period from January 2005 until the present time. The letter was addressed to Kowit. According to a source, Kowit informed Surayud that a fact-finding committee had already been set up to look into the scandal. "Relevant officials have been asked to clarify their disbursement of funds in detail," the source quoted Kowit as saying. The source added that Surayud instructed Kowit to ensure transparency and emphasised that this scandal could harm the country's image. Police General Noppadol Somboonsap, who previously played a key role in the tsunami identification process, separately said foreign officials usually came to work in Thailand for just 15 days and their travel expenses must have been covered by the funds. He was speaking in response to a claim that more than 60 per cent of the funds were wasted and disguised as travelling and other miscellaneous costs. Noppadol was the person initially authorised to withdraw money from a bank account that was opened to hold funds for the tsunami victims' identification. However, a source said a police colonel later took care of the account in place of Noppadol. "We have found that an approval for a Bt5-million purchase of redundant software had been granted. There are many receipts for items that cannot be located when the need to use them arises," the source said. The source added that the police colonel was believed to have pocketed about Bt15 million. In a related development, Prathan Banperng - one of the tsunami survivors in Phang Nga - complained that parents had yet to receive Bt15,000 promised for their children's education. "The government didn't keep its word," he said.
|
Thailand's Poliltical Future Doomed?
With Mr. "No problem" seemingly on the way back, it may be becoming frighteningly clear that Thailand is far from our of the political woods.
BURNING ISSUE CHAVALIT FIGHTING A PROXY WAR
Political veteran in close contact with Thai Rak Thai and Thaksin, to pave way for return of old clique.
It seems almost inevitable that General Chavalit Yongchaiyudh will play a role in Thai politics again, despite the uneasy chill in his relations with the military top brass. An obvious point is the recent report of his conflict with Prime Minister General Surayud Chulanont, so much so that he had to write to the premier to clarify his stance. The controversy erupted after one of his close aides, a former Thai Rak Thai MP, claimed that Chavalit had assigned some of his men to dig up information about how Surayud had got a railway carriage in the yard of his home in Nakhon Ratchasima. Denying his involvement, Chavalit wrote: "Although my political ideology and that of others are different, I've never thought of being mean. Please be informed." The train controversy could imply that Chavalit was taking a critical position regarding the interim government. This marks a continuation of his earlier moves to discomfit the government - by criticising its work, calling for permission to let Thaksin Shinawatra return to the country, or suggesting another coup to bring down the CNS. There has also been speculation of a strong possible connection and communication between Chavalit and the former prime minister, and that he might be a nominee for Thaksin and his group. The coup-makers are therefore keeping a close eye on Chavalit's moves, in case he tries to topple the CNS. Besides, Chavalit was a key strategist for the Thai Rak Thai Party when his New Aspiration Party merged with Thai Rak Thai in 2001. And now the acting Thai Rak Thai leader is Chaturon Chaisang, who is a former New Aspiration Party MP. Also, many current Thai Rak Thai caretaker executives and key members such as deputy spokesman Ekkaporn Rakkwamsuk, Kuthep Saikrachang and Atthasit Kankai Sappayasit were once members of the New Aspiration Party. Thai Rak Thai executives have shown some signs of possibly letting Chavalit be the leader of the party at this critical moment. In fact, Chaturon and some key Thai Rak Thai members have met Chavalit at his house and sought advice about the present political situation. One of the discussions revolved around the possible dissolution of the party in the electoral fraud case, which is still in court. But nothing could be more obvious of Chavalit's links with Thai Rak Thai than a comment by Ekkaporn. He said Chavalit regularly discussed with Chaturon about taking over the post of Thai Rak Thai leader, and that he would quite likely accept the post. "During the latest discussion, General Chavalit told us he was content to take the position of Thai Rak Thai Party leader. But he wanted a formal approval of the party's caucus. He wanted to be an intermediary between the party's key members and executives as the country is in an unbalanced condition," he said. He said Chavalit would be useful in keeping the party together. Ekkaporn suggested that even if the party was dissolved, Chavalit would be Thaksin's "nominee", as he wouldn't be punished for the electoral fraud case. Meanwhile, Chavalit appears to have positioned himself to play an important role in politics, including strategically retaliating against the CNS. Even the attempt of another key player, Sudarat Keyuraphan, to take the reins after Chaturon seems to have had no effect on him as her bargaining power is limited to former MPs from the provinces. Judging from Chavalit's political background and his strategic moves, it seems to be becoming clearer that he is paving the way for the old clique to return to power. Kesinee Jaikawang The Nation
|
Asia Highway Bridge To Bring Problems...
BANGKOK, December 24, 2006 (TNA) – A number of Thai social problems will arise from the second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge which was opened officially last Wednesday, according to a study conducted by Chulalongkorn University's Asian Studies Centre. Social problems anticipated in the wake of the new Mekong River bridge opening, according to the study, include an influx of Lao workers into Thailand which could help reduce labour shortage in Thailand and lower production costs. But problems -- including increased crime, narcotics trafficking, smuggling, prostitution and illegal entry -- are expected, while the daily lives of Thai northeasterners would be changed, the study said, recommending that the government increase its readiness to deal with such challenges. It said government agencies and concerned agencies should be prepared to cope with anticipated problems such as the dwindling agricultural area, waste and water pollution, overcrowding, transportation and services, migration of foreign workers, and public utilities. The second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge opened December 20. The bridge is part of efforts to open transport links in Southeast Asia under a scheme sponsored by the Asian Development Bank. By connecting Thailand's northeastern province of Mukdahan with Savannakhet in southern Laos, it provides a direct road link to central Vietnam.
|
Pridiyathorn Devakula, deputy prime minister and finance minister, urged to resign
BANGKOK, December 23, 2006
Worries over new reserve measures on local banks aimed at curbing short-term capital inflows coupled with the upcoming holidays, are likely to depress both the Thai baht and the stock market next week, according to a report issued by Kasikorn Research Centre. The report said the baht -- which slipped to Bt36.41 against the dollar late Friday -- is expected to move within Bt36.20-Bt37.00 per dollar next week due to various factors. These factors include reserves to be made by commercial banks in anticipation of large withdrawals by customers ahead of New Year while investors are still concerned about the direction of Thai currency and overseas banks closed because of the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Late Monday (December 18), the Bank of Thailand (BoT) shocked both the currency and equity markets with its announcement that foreign inflows would be subject to a 30 per cent reserve requirement. But Pridiyathorn Devakula [many times urged to resign by Sondhi Limthongkul because of alleged incompetance and negligence relating to bungled fiscal actions] deputy prime minister and finance minister, clarified Tuesday night that the order would not be applied to foreign direct investment (FDI) and equity investments after the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) composite index tumbled 14.84 per cent and over Bt800 billion in value was wiped out in the market's largest one-day loss since the SET established 31 years ago. The SET composite index, closed at 680.31 points on Friday, down 7.6 per cent from a week ago, is expected to continue retreating next week due to persisting worry about the central bank's new measures. The BoT is scheduled to announce key economic data for November next Friday. Most investors will be absent from the market due to the year-end holidays.
|
New Bridge To Facilitate Growing Trade
Aerial view of new bridge spanning Mekhong River
BANGKOK, December 18, 2006 (TNA) - Expressing optimism that bilateral relations between Thailand and Laos would be further improved and strengthened, Thailand' s Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont said here Monday that his government would encourage more Thai business interests to invest in that country. Gen. Surayud's remarks were made during a luncheon party hosted in honour of Lao Prime Minister Bouasone Bouphavanh during his first official visit to Thailand,which was held at Government House. The two neighbouring countries celebrate the 56th anniversary of their diplomatic relations Tuesday, Gen. Surayud said, adding that relations have now extended to several fields. Combined trade has grown steadily and trade growth last year was over 40 per cent with imports by Thailand expanded by almost double. Moreover, Thai investors have been allowed by the Lao government to invest extensively in that country while the Thai government also has a policy to encourage more Thais to invest in Laos, said Gen. Surayud. He noted that future relations between the two countries would continue to become brighter due to various factors including relaxed regulations which facilitate travel, visa exemptions, bus and other transport services and, most importantly, the scheduled opening of the second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge on Wednesday. The new span links Thailand’s Mukdahan province with Savannakhet in Laos. From there, roads lead all the way to the ports of Hue and Danang in central Vietnam. The bridge access is expected to boost trade and travel between Thailand and its Indochina neighbours.
|
No Vote Buying?
Assembly head says there's no vote buying of charter drafters CHON BURI, December 16, 2006 (TNA) -
The head of the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) said Saturday it was impossible to buy or block votes to influence selection of members of the National People's Assembly (NPA) to become constitution drafting members. Meechai Ruchuphan told journalists before presiding over a seminar in Pattaya that he didn't believe votes could be blocked or bought on the eve of selecting members of the Constitution Drafting Assembly (CDA). The 1,982 NPA members will convene next week to select from among themselves 200 finalists. The Council for National Security (CNS) will then choose half that number as CDA members. The drafting of the new constitution is expected to take about six months. Mr. Meechai's comments were made in response to remarks made earlier by Sodsri Sattayatham, a member of the Election Commission, on vote buying and vote blocking by some members of NPA. Mr. Meechai said Mrs. Sodsri's remarks were probably due to worries about vote buying--which he said used to happen in past elections. "It's useless to say that votes would be exchanged between NPA members in different professions as this could happen only when persons don't want to be selected as constitution drafters," said Mr. Meechai. What should be of more concern is whether CDA could finish drafting the charter within four months as the remaining of two months would be needed to compile opinions from organisations and interpreting the new draft, he said. Asked whether talks on vote buying or blocking resulted from concerns by the military and its supposed desire to continue retaining power, he said that these complicated activities matters would not be happening if the military wanted to cling to power. Referring to attempts by certain politicians who want to see that the prime minister must be an elected member of parliament, Mr. Meechai said that freedom in drafting the new constitution must be given to the drafters and that it was no use to force them.
|
Schedule of Royal Opening
Bridge Between Mukdaharn-Savannaket, Laos Wednesday, 20 December 2006 08:15 HRH Princess Maha Chakri begins travel by car from reception building at Ubolrat Dam to the Ubolrat helicopter pad. 08:20 HRH’s vehicle arrives at the Ubolrat airport. HRH boards helicopter for travel to front of Mukdaharn Provincial Hall. Governor of Mukdaharn, head judiciary of Mukdaharn, military, police and various government officials receive HRH. 10:00 HRH vehicle arrives at location of ceremony, and HRH then proceeds to the ceremony pavilion. Mr. Boonyang Walajit, vice president of the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos, Arrives at the ceremony pavilion. HRH enters the ceremony pavilion and together with Mr. Boonyang Walajit assumes a seat inside the pavilion. Mr. Khatsuhito Haranobua, deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, delivers address. Mr. Buasorn Boonphawan, Prime Minister of the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos delivers address. General Suruyut Julanont, Prime Minister of Thailand, delivers address. HRH then presses the electric button opening the cover curtain for the ceremony sign, Friendship Bridge 2 (Mukdaharn Savannakhet), together with the Mr. Boonyang Walajit, vice president of the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos. 10:45 HRH enters HRH’s vehicle to proceed to the Savannakhet, People’s Democratic Republic of Laos, side of the bridge 10:55 HRH vehicle arrives at the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos, Savannakhet school of public health. [A ceremony here is then held at the school whereas HRH enters the building to visit the nurses’ teaching room, etc.] 11:40 HRH travels by vehicle to the Laos Customs station. 11:50 HRH then passes through into Laos…
|
|
Interior of Ford's 2007 Edge
Has anyone noticed that a lot of people seem to be refraining from spending these days?. |
500 Million in Sales - or Another Disappointment?
13 December 2006
the Korat Post
The Mall, Korat is scheduled to host Korat's 2006 Northeast Motor Show between 16-24 December 2006, encompassing a 5,000 square meter area on the 3rd floor of the mall and over 1,000 square meters on the first floor. Once again, official releases of expected revenues are unrealistically high - the target has been set at over 500 million Baht. The economy is NOT good.
Not sure if people are really watching, but there are a lot of people these days pulling in their spending strings and making do without. Walk into the Mall, generally during the average day, and you will face lots of staff but won't meet too many fellow customers. On weekends and holidays, of course, the situation is different, but from absence of faces in the Mall, downtown, even on the road, these days it is clear that people don't just want to spend, but they don't have much to spend with.
This reality is reflected in the Thai government's sufficiency policies, ostensibly as part of a propaganda campaign to keep people from losing everything. The former TRT government, in fact, has been cited by the current one as having left only the bones. The metaphor is not lost on those who are hurting, but maybe lost on those who are part of the illusion lobby.
Even Thailand's sports world has been hit heavily with a reduction in the 2007 budget from 7 billion to 2.9 billion. Dr. Suwit Yodmani, Sports and Tourism Minister, is seeking additional funds, but then, he is competing with everyone else. One of the saving graces, however, is that Korat hosts the 2007 ASEAN Games, and this could divert a bit more toward Gateway City.
The 2006 Northeast Motor Show, however, is not likely to benefit from much in the way of government subsidies, and the spending power of people who attend the show is to be questioned. Last year when we dropped by there were not a lot of people there - except for the opening - and later local business reports cited a disappointing performance. Is it just consumerism that's under attack from a weak economy, or is Thailand, and perhaps much of the world, really sliding slowly but surely into a recession at best, and perhaps even a long term depressed recession? As well, it was also clear that many onlookers did not have money to buy. Mayb e the question now is, do they have enough money to go into debt?
Already government estimates are that Thailand's industrial sector is not likely to grow over 10% in 2007. Even this figure may be high, but could easily be offset by such ventures as Dow's $900 plastics investment. Time will tell, but one thing is certain - Korat's rosy picture habit won't fool the consumer. |
|
Ethics in Thai Government & Politics
BANGKOK, December 8, 2006 (TNA) -
Thai Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont on Friday announced his government's national agenda focusing on promoting ethics and suppressing corruption. The bottom line, he said, was that any government servant who is accused should be prosecuted, and if found guilty, should be punished accordingly. Gen Surayud made the statements while presiding over a workshop among government workers highlighting a new national agenda focusing on ethics, good governance, and on the twin goals of preventing and suppressing corruption. The premier said that the interim government has made solving corruption as its top priority. It is necessary, he said, to restore morals, ethical behaviour and good governance, all of which are major components in people-centred public administration. This task requires urgent action, he said, and accomplishing it requires cooperation from all sectors of government and society. However, to solve the problem structurally may be insufficient to eradicate corruption. The strategy needs to focus on individual belief, behaviour and performance as well. In other words, each government worker needs to bear in mind that performing their duty must be based on these three components. If guilty, they are subject to severe punishment -- including dismissal from government service. He cited an example from his own experience. While commanding the Second Regional Army in the Northeast, he declined a political party's offer of a large amount of cash in exchange for his support in an upcoming general election. Referring to that experience, he emphasised that every government worker should lead a lifestyle based on His Majesty the King's sufficiency philosophy. Prime Minister Surayud said it was unnecessary to receive additional funds when one is already sufficiently compensated for one's job.
|
Thai PM to propose people-centered regional integration to ASEAN summit
BANGKOK, December 5, 2006(TNA)
Thai Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont will push for public participation and a more people-orientation into the regional integration of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as the regional grouping strives to become an economic community by 2015, according to a senior Thai official. Nopadol Gunavibool, director-general of ASEAN Department said the premier would address the upcoming 12th ASEAN Summit between December 11-13 in Cebu, the Philippines under the theme "One Caring and Sharing Community". Prime Minister Surayud's speech will focus on people-centered integration towards an ASEAN Economic Community in the next nine years as well as an integrated plan for the region linking air, road and rail transportation. On the sidelines of the meeting, the Thai leader will hold bilateral talks with his counterparts from several countries including information and communication technology cooperation with India and the Thai-Japanese economic partnership, Mr. Nopadol said. The Thai premier is also scheduled to hold talks with South Korean President Roh- Moo Hyun. Major issues to be discussed among the ASEAN leaders are Myanmar, North Korea, natural disasters and regional cooperation on fighting against HIV/AIDS. The 10-member regional grouping will sign the Convention on Counter Terrorism in which Filipino President Gloria Arroyo has put much effort to bring the issue to regional common interest. The ASEAN summit will be one of the crucial venues for Surayud to raise Thailand's international profile since he took office on October 1 after senior military officers staged a coup d'etat ousting his predecessor, Thaksin Shinawatra.
|
Free of anti-government activity?
BANGKOK, Nov 25, 2006 (TNA) -
Lt-Gen Prayut Chan-ocha, commander of the First Region Army, on Saturday said the areas under his command--26 central provinces and the capital--are now free of anti-government activity and any sign of political unrest, meaning that the areas are ready for lifting martial law. Gen Prayut said he will order his forces to return to barracks once he receives orders from Royal Thai Army Commander-in-Chief Gen Sonthi Boonyaratkalin, chairman of the military Council for National Security (CNS), who will decide both the timing and geographic areas to be covered. Gen Sonthi said earlier this week that martial law, imposed throughout the kingdom since the September 19 coup, is likely to be lifted before the new year. Nevertheless, the law might remain in force in some areas where it is deemed necessary. At present, Gen Prayut said, the First Region Army is still watching the situation in the 26 central provinces, even though the general situation is normal and causes no concern. In response to varied groups of people planning to gather at Bangkok's Sanam Luang December 10, the national Constitution Day, the commander said his army is always watching the movements. However, he said, those who have joined the gatherings are a minority, while most Thai people haven't joined any demonstration at all because they understand that the nation needs peace and order. Gen Prayut urged people wanting to stage political movements to patient and wait until a new elected government is formed. "Don't push too much, otherwise it'll get us into trouble," he said.
|
Korat Publisher Wins UNICEF Honors
21 November 2006
Mr. Soontorn Junrungsee, Editorial Director of Korat Daily newspaper, far left,
receives a special honor - and cash prize of 20,000 Baht - from former prime minister H.E. Anand
Panyarachun,
far right, in recognition of promoting child welfare issues. Those who are familiar with H.E. Anand may recall his well-mannered repartee with ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra on public television, wherein the differences between the two were all too apparent. Always the gentleman, Anand is respected far and wide throughout the kingdom.
The Korat Daily, NE Thailand's largest circulating local newspaper, is Korat's largest and one of its oldest newspapers. Further information on Mr. Soontorn and the Korat Daily can be found at Wikipedia. The 12 page broadsheet newspaper covers the entire gambit of news reporting, from society to politics to social issues to municipal affairs, etc. Dated child related information re. Anand... Korat Printing, owned by Mr. Soontorn, publishes Korat Daily and the Korat Post.
|
| |
17 November 2006
The make-shift ring where the WBC world title defense will be fought. Weather is hot, and may be a factor.
Thai Army Region 2 will today play host to World Boxing Council championship Flyweight 16th title defense between Phongsakdi Kratingdaengyim, born in Korat, Thailand in 1977, and South African Monelisi Mhikiza Myekeni. The match will be broadcast on Thai TV color channel 7, from 14:30-17:30. The title defense bout is the main event.
|
|
|
National Security Still Priority
BANGKOK, November 10, 2006 (TNA) - Thailand's national security will remain under close surveillance following the revocation of the ban on political gatherings, Supreme Commander Boonsang Niempradit said on Friday. The agencies responsible for security will continue to monitor the national situation closely because the nation’s returning to stability will be the major reason the Council for National Security (CNS) to consider lifting martial law, the next move after agreeing to the proposed lifting of the ban on political gatherings. The CNS and the interim government it installed revoked Announcement No.7 issued on September 20 by the September 19 military Council for Democratic Reform (CDR), now known as the CNS, which prohibited gatherings of over five people for political purposes. The National Legislative Assembly (NLA) unanimously voted to endorse lifting the ban when it convened on Thursday. The supreme commander conceded that he was concerned over the national security after the political gatherings ban was lifted. "Regarding the security issue, I must take care of it all the time. No matter in the past or present we can't forget about security," Gen. Boonsang said. "National security is the same as oxygen. When we're well, we don't think about it. But when we have trouble or lack oxygen, we realise that we badly need it." As for the next move regarding the lifting of martial law imposed throughout the kingdom since the September 19 coup, Gen. Boonsang said he could not give a specific time when it will be revoked since the matter must be discussed and decided by various parties. NLA Speaker Meechai Ruchuphan said that although the CDR Order No.7 has been revoked, political parties remain unable to perform their political activities because other two relevant announcements also issued by CDR, namely Orders No. 15, and No. 27 prohibiting political parties' political activities remain in effect. "The revocation of the Order No.7 will allow only the general public to gather or talk politically but political activities to carried out by political parties themselves or others supported by political parties are not allowed yet," the assembly speaker explained. (TNA)
|
Going Postal in the Police Station
Three lives claimed, Surin Translated by the Korat Post Source: Manager Online report, 31 October 2006 Nakhkonratchasima News Center – Provincial police Tambol Takuk, Kawaeksurin subdristrict, Surin province, extreme rage occurs, while on duty at the station, pulled out a gun and shots junior police officers who were sitting in the computer room, killing two before turning the gun on himself, resulting in a third fatality.
Media reported that at 22:20 hours the night before [30 October 2006] Police Lt. Anurak Thamuang, duty officer at the subdistrict’s station received a report from police officials at the same station that a policeman used a weapon to shoot fellow officers in the station and that there were a total of three deaths. When he received the report, the Lt. notified police Maj. General Boonlert Jaipradit, Surin provincial police commissioner, and police Col. Wiwat Chanphana, deputy commissioner. Later, the Surin police commissioner together with many other senior officers visited the station where the incident took place. They found three deceased police officers. The first was lying dead on the lower area of the station. He had been shot in the right temple, and blood had flowed onto the floor. The victim was lying face up. He was identified as pol. Sgt. Maj. Suphak Anchaisri, aged 37, partly in uniform. It was revealed that at the time of the incident he was the duty office of the station. The two other victims were found shot to death in the police station’s computer room. They were pol. Corporal Wichpas Malihuan, aged 30, in charge of suppression, responsible for police communications. He was shot on the left side of the chest, found dead sitting in his chair in front of his computer station. The third victim was identified as Pol. Corporal Somphop Suwachati, also aged 30 and in suppression, was shot in the head and brain matter had been spread by the shot. He fell from the chair and died in front of his computer. From questioning of police officers at the station it was found that before the incident the three victims all arrived on duty at the station at 22:20 hrs., and that there had been no argument, and everything had appeared normal. But then without warning Sgt. Maj. Suphak Anchaisri went into the computer room where the other two officers were working and drew his .38 police revolver, shooting them. He then exited from the room, firing several more shots. He then held the gun close to his temple, pulling the trigger falling to the floor, dying along with the other two victims. Regardless, the incident was particularly sad in that Pol. Corporal Somphop Suwachati, one of the three victims, had planned to marry on 1 December, and was shot while engaged in printing arrangements and invitations for the wedding. As for the other two victims, they had been supporting their families and school aged children. Police Maj. General Boonlert Jaipradit, Surin provincial police commissioner interrogated many officers in the station where the incident took place, and disclosed to the media that the killer, according to initial indications, committed the crime out of work stress and had a history of treatment for emotional stress, and had been continually taking medications. In the day before the incident there was a takraw competition at the station. Whether the shooter had had any words with the junior officers is being investigated. “But I assure you that this incident arose from stress on the part of the shooter. As to work procedures, improvements will be made and staff will be made familiar with how to avoid stress.” said Police Maj. General Boonlert Jaipradit.
|
SPECIAL REPORT, the Nation
The Thaksin government was mulling its own coup...In the third in a series of articles marking the first month since the September 19 coup, The Nation discusses why the military takeover was inevitable.
The country could not have avoided any coup even if the seizure of power on September 19 had not taken place because the government was ready to stage a "self-coup" against its own administration. Intelligence forces reported that the government planned to recruit 200 people from the ranks of motorcycle taxi drivers, security guards and ruffians to instigate trouble, which would lead to bloodshed during an uprising of the People's Alliance for Democracy. The report said the strategy behind the move was to assassinate PAD leaders and use the ensuing violence as an excuse to deploy tanks and troops to suppress the people. Then the government could declare martial law. Even though the intelligence report sounded unbelievable, it was given more weight by Thaksin Shinawatra's state-of-emergency address on television on September 19. Thai News Agency reporters who followed the prime minister to the United States said he learned about the military movements back home at 7am New York time, which was 7pm here. He called a meeting of officials and asked Television Pool of Thailand to relay his broadcast. But TV Pool refused and that made Thaksin very angry. He contacted Modernine TV, Channel 11 and iTV directly. The two latter channels agreed to broadcast the transmission from Modernine TV but technical problems prevented them from showing Thaksin's statement. Thaksin was able to air his announcement only on Modernine TV at 9.15, two hours after he knew about the revolt of the military against him. The language used in the statement was full of legal and technical terms, even though no legal specialists followed Thaksin to the US. That suggests that he had carried a carefully prepared draft that could be pulled out and used at any time. This is why Thaksin is believed to have planned a "self-coup" using military units loyal to him. But the opposite side read thorough his plot and launched a pre-emptive strike.
|
FTA Agreements May Face Changes, Holds
16 October 2006, TNA
Fate of FTA (link to Thailand's FTA site) negotiations subject to legislative body’s decision BANGKOK, Oct. 16 (TNA) - The Ministries of Commerce and Finance failed to make headways on how to wrap up the loose end in Free Trade Agreement negotiations that Thailand has started. They decided to pass the matter on to the National Legislative Assembly to decide. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister -Wikipedia link - Pridiyathorn Devakula was speaking after a policy briefing session with senior officials of the Commerce Ministry. He said he has assigned the Commerce Ministry to study the pros and cons of the various FTA negotiations and pacts that Thailand has signed to date. The government would then forward the outcome of the study and updated status of FTA talks to consult with the National Legislative Assembly for how to proceed. Commerce Minister Krirkkrai Jirapaet said the Commerce Ministry will have to inform the Assembly before picking up what’s left from the previous administration concerning FTA negotiations. But he said he anticipated no problems because “any issue of mutual benefits we can go ahead.” However, public concerns will have to be taken into account and the the Commerce Ministry is prepared to listen to a wide range of public opinions on issues of their concerns. TNA reporters said Mr Krirkkrai is likely to face the question of the fate of Thai-Japanese Free Trade Agreement on Tuesday when members of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and JETRO, the Japanese government’s trade agency pay a courtesy call on him.
|
New Thai Cabinet Sworn in Among Foreign Condemnation
BANGKOK, October 9, 2006 (TNA)
Thailand's 24th Prime Minister, Surayud Chulanont, led his Cabinet to a swearing-in ceremony before His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on Monday, one day short of three weeks after the bloodless September 19 coup d'tat staged by military leaders. The interim government is set to serve the kingdom until elections promised for October 2007. Affirming it as the focus of his one-year mission, the former army chief-appointed-premier by the military coup makers pledged to build national unity, put an end to the current political stalemate, and resolve the continuing violence in Thailand's far South which has claimed more than 1,700 lives since violence erupted in early 2004. Speaking to journalists prior to the swearing-in ceremony of 26-member Cabinet at Chitralada Palace in Bangkok, new Government Spokesperson Yongyuth Mayalarp said the Cabinet's first meeting will be held at Government House, the government seat, in Bangkok on Tuesday morning. Tuesday's first session of Cabinet will discuss the outline of the new government's policy, and the divisions of labour between the two deputy prime ministers--Pridiyathorn Devakula and Kosit Panpiemras, and the role and functions of the Minister to the Prime Minister's office. When asked whether the lifting of martial law will be high on the agenda, the government spokesman said the premier conceded that the issue must be carefully considered. The Cabinet will discuss the matter as soon as possible, he said, including consideration of lifting of the ban on political assemblies of more than five people. Martial law was put in place by Royal Thai Army Commander Gen. Sonthi Boonyaratkalin in the military-led bloodless putsch which ended the Thaksin administration's five years in office. The first-named military Council for Democratic Reform (CDR) unveiled an interim 39-article charter on October 1, promising to return power to an elected civilian government within a year once a new permanent constitution is completed.
|
Over 5 Billion Baht Due...
"We're confident they will be forced to pay personal income tax worth Bt5.8 billion," said the source. Once the investigation is completed, the result will be forwarded to the National Counter Corruption Commission (NCCC). The source said that the OAG might ask the NCCC to file a lawsuit against senior tax officials at the Revenue Department who had been criticised for their refusal to tax Panthongtae and Pinthongta. "Auditor-General Khunying Jaruvan Maintaka will decide whether the OAG recommends the NCCC to launch legal action against the officials," said the source. The source said the investigative team at the OAG differed with the Revenue Department about whether Panthongtae and Pin-thongta should pay tax. In January the two netted huge profits from the sale of Shin Corp's shares to Temasek Holdings. They bought the 329.2 million shares of Shin Corp at Bt1 apiece from Ample Rich Investments, their own company registered in the tax-haven British Virgin Islands. Then they resold them at Bt49.25 apiece. Officials from the Revenue Department explained that they had sold the shares on the stock exchange, where capital-gains tax is waived. This nettled lawyers who said Panthongtae and Pinthongta should be taxed on the price differential. Investigators at the OAG estimate that the two should pay at least Bt5.85 billion and could be fined for failing to pay tax, said the source. According to the source, five senior officials have been identi-fied for possible legal action. They are Revenue Department director general Sirote Swasdipanich, deputy director general Paitoon Pongke-sorn, director of the bureau of legal affairs Moreerat Boonya-siri, senior tax official Krich Vipulanusarn and Finance Minis-try inspector-general Bengja Louicharoen. Meanwhile, a source at the Revenue Department said Sirote had apparently changed his stance following the military coup on September 19. Now he is likely to demand tax from the children of Thaksin, if the OAG says so. If the OAG can wind up the Shin Corp deal matter this week, as the source thinks probable, it is likely to breath fresh life into an effort by the OAG and the Council for Democratic Reform to probe other controversial deals during the Thaksin administration. Wichit Chaitrong The Nation
|
September 23, 2006 The Nation
Public stages its first protest
Public stages its first protest Nearly 100 people staged the first civilian protest against the coup last night, calling it illegitimate and a violation of Thai democracy. The protesters in front of Bangkok's Siam Centre included university students, lecturers and social activists. All wore black to mourn the death of democracy and condemned the coup as counter-productive. The demonstrators urged the public to resist the new military regime and vowed to continue their fight until democracy was restored. They called on people who opposed the coup to wear black or carry black banners. "We believe that a military coup is not the answer," said Giles Ungphakorn, a well-known political scientist at Chulalongkorn University. He said the 1997 Constitution should be restored along with press freedom and freedom of assembly. Giles said the coup had annihilated the rights and liberty of Thais. When asked if he was speaking for the majority of Thais, he said: "We believe we speak for a significant number of Thais who are too worried or too afraid to speak." Protesters held small banners which read "No to Thaksin. No to coup", "Don't call it reform - it's a coup" and "No to martial law". One small poster depicted the Democracy Monument with a text in English reading "On vacation again". Nonetheless, all protesters denied backing ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra. The protest attracted several bystanders and around 100 Thai and foreign journalists. Nobody was arrested. Colonel Manit Wongsomboon, deputy commander of Metropolitan Police Division 6, said police had recorded the protest on video and would examine the tape to see if protesters had broken martial law forbidding an assembly of more than five people for political purposes. Meanwhile, a website has been set up to collect signatures demanding that the Council for Democratic Reform under Constitutional Monarchy (CDRM) should not arrest or harm protesters who planned to express their disagreement with the coup. The online petition, www.petitiononline.com/thaicoup/petition.html, was the initiative of Thongchai Winichakul, a professor of history at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the United States. He declared that all the signatories regretted the September 19 coup and hoped that democracy would be restored as soon as possible. The petition also urged the CDRM to respect freedom of expression, a basic human right, by allowing those who disagreed with the coup to express their opinions in the media, on websites and at public gatherings. More than 400 people from various countries have signed the petition. In England, a group of postgraduate Thai students at Oxford University called the Oxford Initiative said it planned to issue a statement to express disagreement with the coup. It hopes the CDRM will return civilian rule to Thailand as soon as possible. However, the statement does not necessarily reflect the opinion of all Thai students at Oxford, said one of the group leaders. Pravit Rojanaphruk, Subhatra Bhumiprabhas, Pennapa Hongthong - The Nation
|
Panel To Probe Thaksin's, ex-Cabinet's Assets
22 September 2006, The Nation
The Council of Democratic Reform under Constitutional Monarchy (CDRM) will set up a six-person committee to investigate the assets of former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, his family, and 15 former Cabinet members. Sources at the CDRM, which overthrew the Thaksin regime last Tuesday, said members of the asset probe panel will likely include Klanarong Chantik, a former member of National Counter Corruption Commission. Other likely panel members are former judge Nam Yimyaem; former senator Kaewsan Atipoti; former central bank chief MR Chatu Mongkol Sonakul; former judge Wasant Soipisut; and former national security chief Prasong Soonsiri. Besides Thaksin and the former Cabinet members, the panel will also look into the assets of Thaksin's wife, Khunying Pojaman; personal secretary Padoong Limcharoenrat; Thaksin's sister, Yaowapa Wongsa-wat and husband Somchai; and Pojaman's brother, Bannawit Damapong. The list of ex-Cabinet members whose assets will also be investigated include: deputy premier Suriya Jungrungreangkit; agriculture minister Sudarat Keyuraphan, natural resources minister Yong-yuth Tiyapairat; PM's Office minister Newin Chidchob; deputy premier Surakiart Sathirathai; transport minister Pongsak Ruktapong-paisal; deputy minister Phumtham Vejjachai; deputy premier Suwat Liptapanlop; labour minister Somsak Thepsuthin. Others to be investigated include deputy finance minister Varathep Rattanakorn; PM's secretary- general Prommin Lertsuridej; interior minister Kongsak Wattana; deputy minister Pracha Maleenont; and social development minister Wattana Muangsuk. CDRM sources said the majority of its members supported the panel being set-up, even though Gen Ruangroj Mahasalanont disagreed. The CDRM will approach Auditor-General Khunying Jaruvan Maintaka to join the investigation panel. If there is solid evidence to implicate Thaksin, his family and relatives, and former Cabinet members in possible corruption cases, the panel will forward the results of its investigation to the Supreme Court for further legal action. Sources said the panel will function like the National Counter Corruption Commission, which has been abrogated by the CDRM.
|
Fear of Mass Prison Riots
BANGKOK, September 17, 2006 (TNA) - Following Thailand's second prison riot in three days, the Corrections Department told all prisons across Thailand to respond to any riot in the prison compound immediately otherwise they will be held responsible for the melee, said the department's director-general. Some 100 inmates in the central prison of the southern province of Yala sparked an angry protest Sunday demanding that the provincial governor transfer three wardens out of the prison. They accused the wardens of brutally beating their fellow inmate.
The protest ended peacefully after the provincial governor agreed to their demand and promised as well to allow Muslim inmates to observe their religious duties during the Muslim fasting period of Ramadan. It was the second incident in three days after over 200 prisoners in the southern Nakhon Si Thammarat province staged a protest strike Thursday protesting the prison care system, demanding the transfers of five wardens, while authorities concerned have kept the situation under control. Director-General Nathee Chitsawang of the Corrections Department said the investigation is under way to determine the cause of the latest protest. He said, however, all prisons in Thailand have been instructed to remain vigilant and prepared to send in special units to cope with untoward incidents which may happen in the future. [See Thai gov. website]
In a related event, see Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra's policy statement at the Non-Aligned Summit, which will underscore some of the differences between the Thai administration and its traditional allies.
|
Thailand Catches Up to Thaksin - No. 18
BANGKOK, September 6, 2006 (TNA) – Thailand saw its rank move up one notch--from 19th place to 18th place--among 175 countries surveyed by the World Bank and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a lead economist of the World Bank said Wednesday. Singapore dethroned New Zealand, last year's chart topper, as the world's most favourable investment destination. The United States is ranked 3rd followed by Canada and Hong Kong respectively. Thailand performed well to upgrade its ranking in some areas of the survey, such as assets registration, but there is still much left to be desired in terms of business regulations which hinder foreign investment, the lack of skilled workers and public utilities as well as transparency and good governance to protect investors, according to Kazi M. Martin, the World Bank's Bangkok-based lead economist for Southeast Asia. The rankings were announced in a report entitled "Doing Business 2007: How to Reform" released by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the World Bank's organ for promoting private sector investment throughout the globe. Benchmarking was based on an extensive list of indicators, including the time and cost to meet government requirements in business start-up, operation, trade, taxation, and closure. They do not track variables such as macroeconomic policy, quality of infrastructure, currency volatility, investor perceptions, or crime rates. Some 1,385 private companies in Thailand were included among 30,000 international companies surveyed. The report highlighted key areas that Thailand needed to improve to attract more foreign investment in the future, particularly the length of business start-ups in the country which normally takes 33 days, longer than Singapore and Hong Kong where new business start-ups take only 6 and 11 days respectively. The long waits encountered in customs procedures--which take at least 22 days -- were seen as a serious obstacle to Thailand's flow of exports and imports. In comparison, Singapore's customs procedures take only three days for custom procedures for import and six days for export procedures, the report said. Mr. Martin said lengthy customs procedures was not the major issue but the main obstacle was investment volume. "The volume of private investment in Thailand has been at a low level since pre-1997 financial crisis, mainly are in real estate sector rather than the production sector," Mr. Martin pointed out. "In addition, he said, several factors that contributed to Thailand's shortcomings for investment are business regulations that impose unfavourable conditions for doing business, lack of skilled workers, higher wages and insufficient utilities." The World Bank economist urged Thailand to fine-tune its investment direction to produce more innovative products and technology-savvy personnel to serve the nation's 10th National Economic and Social Development Plan which focused on economy driven by knowledge and innovations. The report finds that the top 30 economies in the world are, in order, Singapore, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, Hong Kong/China, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Australia, Norway, Ireland, Japan, Iceland, Sweden, Finland, Switzerland, Lithuania, Estonia, Thailand, Puerto Rico, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Korea, Latvia, Malaysia, Israel, St. Lucia, Chile, South Africa and Austria.
|
Is Thaksin Engineering Smear Campaign Against King's Chief Adviser? See editorial.
5 September 2006
The Nation
Prem and Chavalit 'targets of smear campaign in NEast'
A group of northeastern politicians is carrying out a smear campaign against Privy Council president Prem Tinsulanonda and General Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, a political activist said yesterday. The politicians, affiliated to an unnamed large party, were telling people in the Northeast that Prem and Chavalit were involved in an attempt by the anti-government People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) to bring down the administration, said Thaikorn Polsuwan, co-ordinator of the Network of Northeast Liberation. Thaikorn told a press conference he was concerned the campaign would result in a seriously divided country. "It's the work of political sadists. This is evil action," he said. Thaikorn, who was once affiliated with the Democrat Party, said the campaign had been going on over the past two months in many provinces, including Roi Et, Udon Thani, Nakhon Ratchasima, Surin and Buri Ram. He claimed the politicians accused Prem and Chavalit during recent gatherings of local community leaders and officials. Recently, in the wake of an alleged bomb plot targeting caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a group of government supporters gathered outside of Prem's residence in Bangkok asking him to "help protect" the PM. Pallop Pinmanee, who is close to Chavalit, was fired as deputy chief of the Internal Security Operation Command (Isoc) shortly after an Isoc official was arrested in connection with the alleged assassination plot.
|
|
|
|
Criminal Prosecution Ceases After Apology
Photo above provided by Korat Criminal Court on 3 July 2006. We are requesting ditigal copy. Note also
court-provided closure document below shows no court letterhead, stamp or signature. We are also
requesting a formal letter with letterhead and appropriate signatures. Translation follows below image.
Translation
News from Nakhonratchasima Court
Subject: Results of Defamation Case
Case Black no. 359/2549
Case Red No. 979/2549
Court - Nakhonratchasima
29 June 2006
Case - Criminal
Between Office of the Public Prosecutor, Nakhonratchasima, plaintiff, and Miss Papatchanan Chingin, Defendant
The matter of defaming others via advertising over broadcast...
Plaintiff files in summary that on 27 February 2005, defendant, being conductor of community radio station FM 104.5 MHz program, Sabai Sabai Aunt Daeng, stated on said program defaming Mrs. Tongmuan Anderson person suffering loss, thereby asking for punishment of defendant per por. or. section 326, 328.
During consideration of the case, the court intervened so that discussions could be held to settle the matter.
The plaintiff and defendant were able to come to agreement whereby the defendant admitted stating [such?] widely and publicly (sic?) on the radio program that defendant conducts. Defendant asks for pardon and apologizes to the one suffering loss. The one suffering loss does not wish to pursue the case any further but asks that the court exhorts the defendant and does not allow wrongdoing against those suffering loss by wide public broadcast in any manner causing loss and asks that the comlaint be withdrawn.
The court has considered the case and finds that the case concerns personal wrongdoing, and that when the party suffering loss properly withdraws the complaint, the right to bring criminal case is thus surrendered, and therefore the case is removed from the court docket.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
