FRIDAY BUG
A star is born
Before he left his post as Bank of Thailand's governor to join the interim government, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister MR Pridiyathorn Devakula threw a "thank you" party for the press on Wednesday night.
It was not a long last goodbye. No tears. No sorrow. Not only was the press having a good time but Pridiyathorn himself also sang a number of rousing songs. His Thai singing was a bit out of rhythm but his English songs were absolutely impeccable. Pridiyathorn, a Thammasat University graduate, sang the university song "Kwan Dome" plus "Ngung Nai Duang Jai" (One in My Mind) and "Tae Pang Kon" (Since the Past Lives). Educated both here and abroad, but still down-to-earth, Pridiyathorn may be leaving the central bank but he remains in the limelight wherever he goes. His name has been in the headlines every day even before he was announced as the holder of two high ministerial posts. Yesterday furnished more proof. Dozens of reporters were waiting for him on his arrival at the Stock Exchange of Thailand to deliver a speech at the Corporate Governance Forum. Many financial titans were at the bourse, including Siam Commercial Bank president and chief executive Khunying Jada Wattanasiritham. But when Pridiyathorn made his appearance, press mobbed him and left other sources alone. "Haven't you guys had enough of me?," Pridiyathorn joked before quickly disappearing into an elevator. No, it doesn't seem so. On the other hand, a great many reporters and Thais will be expecting a lot from you, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pridiyathorn.
|
