Showing 1 - 9 of 9
Suthep is not a lone advocate of reform
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 02/08/2015
» It’s no surprise that all eyes focused on Suthep Thaugsuban at the launch of the Muan Maha Prachachon for Reforms Foundation last week. Mr Suthep says he will not return to politics. He says the foundation will not stage street protests or storm anyone’s offices.
Prayut targets critics at home
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 11/02/2015
» Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha is confident and believes in himself. He does not mince words. On the final leg of his visit to Japan while riding the high-speed Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka, he speaks about his role as prime minister, what makes him angry and the future of reform and reconciliation. Below are excepts of the exclusive interview.
Reforming bureaucracy a must for our future
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 01/02/2015
» It is increasingly clear what the political party landscape would be like and what type of government we will be getting once elections are held. The impeachment of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra means Pheu Thai is considerably weakened. Down, but not out. The party is forced to play a long waiting game until elections are a go.
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.
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.
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.
Reform must bring our mps to heel
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 20/07/2014
» This past week, the role of elected representatives is in the spotlight once again.
Let’s admit this is not democracy
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 13/07/2014
» For decades we have been telling ourselves we are a democracy. We tell our people that elections mean we are a democracy. This is hammered home repeatedly. Consequently, we tell the world we are a democracy. But in reality, we are not. We have never been. We want it, but we don’t have it.
Anand urges talks to ease political crisis
News, Pichai Chuensuksawadi, Published on 10/02/2014
» Since the anti-government protests started in October last year to the present, we have had the dissolution of parliament, a caretaker government and incomplete elections. How would you describe Thailand's overall political situation?