Showing 11 - 20 of 26
My wish list for 2015 is not too hard to achieve
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 04/01/2015
» It happens every time we approach the end of one year and the start of another. We reflect on the last 365 days, wonder what the next 52 weeks will bring and hope our lives will be better.
We cannot endorse plan for election
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 14/12/2014
» Usually, Thai newspapers and media do not endorse political party leaders or parties campaigning in elections under our parliamentary system. Certainly not the Bangkok Post.
Christmas? Long-term is what really matters
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 30/11/2014
» Over the next three weeks we will be gradually decorating the Prayut Christmas tree. Presents are piling up under the tree with more to come, and people can start opening their presents in the final week of the year.
Give the people a say on the charter
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 16/11/2014
» It should come as no surprise that quite a number of people are asking whether it’s worth going through yet another round of drafting a new charter. We have a track record of overturning governments, ripping up charters and drafting new ones. And so the cycle goes. So why should this time be any different?
The ball sits firmly in Prayut's court now
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 09/11/2014
» It's been quiet for the past five months since the May 22 military coup. Martial law has kept the situation under wraps, even though we all know that nothing has really changed. Despite all the talk of unity, reconciliation and reform, the political divide remains.
Reform and the charter should be a joint effort
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 26/10/2014
» Starting tomorrow, the National Reform Council will roll up their sleeves and start the arduous task of charting a roadmap of how Thailand will change. There is enthusiasm among the members, although they realise expectations are mixed — high hopes from some quarters and serious doubts among others.
Don't hold your breath for school shake-up
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 12/10/2014
» Many years ago during a chat with a cabinet minister, the topic turned to education. I recall the politician saying that he intended to send his children to a Thai school. In his view it was better than sending them overseas because they can forge friendships which will last a lifetime and they would not become too farang. We discussed the pros and cons of Thai versus overseas schooling and the conclusion was — we agreed to disagree.
Corruption is a curse that can be tackled
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 05/10/2014
» Corruption has been with us for so long that many feel it is ingrained in the Thai DNA. Many feel it is acceptable and tolerable to grease the palms of bureaucracy to get things moving — so long as it's not too much.
It’s not just about the price but the process
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 14/09/2014
» Finally, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha has spoken out on the controversy swirling around the installation of new microphones and the audio system at Government House. He had to speak out eventually. After all, he’s repeatedly promised us a transparent, accountable and corruption-free government.
Time to look beyond the army ranks
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 31/08/2014
» It’s no surprise that a significant number of senior military officers will hold key positions in the cabinet of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. Gen Prayuth says the security situation is not yet normal and he needs men he can trust to work with him. He’s aware of the criticisms and has promised that changes would be made if his ministers don’t perform. Such promises are not new for Thai prime ministers. And under normal circumstances, we would consider such statements par for the course. Gen Prayuth needs to have his band of brothers by his side as they make way for the next wave of armed forces leaders in the impending military reshuffle. Be that as it may there is one key position which should definitely not be occupied by a military officer — the post of Foreign Minister.