Showing 1 - 10 of 14
Thailand should emulate Japan's art of adaptation
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 03/11/2015
» I recently embarked on a family holiday to Japan. It was only our fourth visit in 10 years. This time we paid a brief visit to Osaka and Kobe, but in my opinion, the highlight of the trip was my first ride on the Shinkansen, Japan's high-speed train.
Without change the Democrat Party faces irrelevance
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 04/08/2015
» Does anybody really think that political progress is conceivable without also reforming the Democrat Party? As they say, "honesty is an expensive gift, so never expect it from cheap people". Well, here is my gift of honesty.
Asia's last 'benevolent dictator' was a giant of a man
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 25/03/2015
» There is little doubt that Singapore owes an enormous debt of gratitude to this giant of a man named Lee Kuan Yew, or Harry as he was known to his friends and family.
In the Thai political rule book, not all crimes are equal
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 19/02/2015
» The year 2015 is a rather special year for students of British history like myself, because it marks the 50th anniversary since the death of Sir Winston Churchill and the 750th anniversary of a much less celebrated but equally vital historical landmark called the de Montfort Parliament.
Thailand can learn from my hero, Winston Churchill
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 03/02/2015
» This year marks the 50th anniversary of the passing of arguably the greatest Briton that ever lived. Those who read my column will know that I have often quoted Sir Winston Churchill, because I find his life and the principles he stood for mesmerising. Churchill personified the greatness of the British Empire and his death in 1965 marked its spiritual end. I wholeheartedly believe that our anaemic leaders in Thailand should study his legacy, because even half a century after his death, Churchillian principles still have the unique ability to inspire.
True statesmen share power and avoid victor's justice
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 10/12/2014
» As a staunch supporter of democracy and as a writer, I now face what I shall call the "democrat's dilemma".
Thailand after six months behind the iron curtain
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 28/11/2014
» We have marked six months since Thailand ventured into dangerous − but historically familiar − political waters. Slowly, but surely, an iron curtain has descended upon this country, snuffing out many forms of civil liberties we once took for granted.
Nine points to help you decide if you’re a Democrat
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 24/04/2014
» Admittedly, most, if not all of my friends, religiously vote for the Democrat Party come rain or shine. Therefore, I’ve been rather fascinated by the question of what kind of traits or attributes a typical Democrat possesses. So, for what it’s worth, here is a small list I’ve compiled to help readers determine whether they are Democrats.
Mandela's legacy puts that of our politicians to shame
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 09/12/2013
» Nelson Mandela was a man greatly admired throughout the world, and in death his message lives on. This fragile, softly spoken, human rights colossus went to war against the mighty apartheid regime and won. His allies were freedom and justice. His weapons were his convictions and his indomitable spirit. In the end, numerous leaders of the free world flocked to join his cause. A believer in liberty and equal rights for all, regardless of colour or creed; a belief he was willing to die for.
Seven essential qualities for a Thai premier
News, Songkran Grachangnetara, Published on 01/10/2013
» Being prime minister is not an easy job. So hats off to anyone who even wants the job in the first place, because it can be a thankless endeavour. In this article I'd like to explore what the essential qualities are that we seek in a prime minster of Thailand, and whether anyone measures up to it.