"I have seen overthrows  [of governments] in the country eight times, and each of them had a similar reason - of government corruption - but I've never seen any coup leader successful in proving the [deposed] government's guilt. So, I don't want to see the latest coup failing to verify the truth," he said.

Thaksin's former deputy premier was speaking at a press conference yesterday at the Grand Hyatt Erawan hotel for the launch of his latest pocket book, "Purachai Piumsomboon Yon Roi Patiwat" (Purachai Piumsomboon traces back the coups).

He also called on the government to follow through on its promises, such as to rule for only one year.

He said the overthrow of the government was only a step backward to dictatorship. The real solution was fostering democracy in all Thais from the time they are young. Democracy should be first be fostered at the family level, he said.

Purachai said the first step was to teach all Thai children about their origin because the teaching of democracy had to conform to their origins, and then make them proud of their nation.

The government has to make all Thais understand the Constitution, not only know it, because it helps the government's democracy development, he said.

Asked if he would return to politics, Purachai evaded a direct reply by saying: "If politics means working for the country, I am now working for the country by issuing pocket books to present my point of view on politics."

On the question of returning to the Thai Rak Thai Party, he said he would consider it later after the party's fate is clear.

The Thai Rak Thai faces charges of manipulating the general election last April and could be dissolved if found guilty in the case, which is currently before the Constitution Tribunal.

Wannapa Phetdee

The Nation