Junta chief still undecided about political future

Junta chief Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin

Q: You said it would depend on the country's chance of survival if you would enter politics. Could you please explain that statement?

A: There are many elements involving security of the country - the military, the economy, social issues and others. So I have to wait and see before making the decision. I insist that I have not thought about my political future yet. I still have two months before my retirement.

Q: What are the indicators about the country's chance of survival?

A: One of them is that the national referendum is passed and the general election is held.

Q: If politicians from the old power clique return, does this indicate the country's survival?

A: It is a factor. Yet we have to consider every angle. I have not made up my mind yet. I may take a rest when I retire because I have been very tired since [the coup].

Q: Prasong Soonsiri, chairman of the Constitution Drafting Assembly, cautioned you that after being a professional soldier throughout your career, you might be trounced by experienced politicians.

A: I have to thank him. But if we live in a good environment, we should not worry about what we will experience.

Q: It seems opposition against you entering politics outweighs the support. What do you have to say?

A: I have to read between the lines the viewpoints supporting and opposing. Yet I listen to all of the opinions. I'll try to figure out if both the supporters and the critics have any hidden agenda in their minds.

Q: Latest reports said that the Rak Chat Party would be set up to retain military power. Do you know the Rak Chat Party?

A: I believe nobody in the CNS knows this party. Nor do I.

Q: If you decide to become a politician, it seems hard to set up a new political party by yourself.

A: That's right. However, I still haven't made up my mind about joining with any political party. As I told you, I still have two months and I'll now contribute to the Army and the CNS.

Q: Many people including Defence Minister Boonrawd Somtas said that you would certainly enter politics because you were afraid of revenge without political protection. Do you fear being a target for revenge?

A: I have no concern. Goodness is my protection. The defence minister knows me well. I talked to him straightforwardly and he appeared to analyse from what I said.