Despite his short-comings, Samak deserves a chance

Our national nightmare may be over with his appointment, or it may not, depending on what he will do. But for Abhisit Vejjajiva and the Democrat Party, their nightmare will linger on whether they like it or not. It was obvious from the results of the December 23 election that the Democrats have failed to win the hearts and minds of the majority of the Thai electorate. But they had their chance and they blew it. With huge support, both tangible and intangible, behind them leading up to election day, the Democrats seemed to lose grasp of the prevailing political realities and treated this election as politics as usual. It was not.

To be sure, this election was the most divisive ever experienced in Thai political history. It was not about the economy, political ideology or national reconciliation; it was about one man: Thaksin Shinawatra. The Democrat Party seemed to have forgotten that. The people have spoken; they want Thaksin back.

Samak has skilfully exploited the disadvantage initially suffered by the now-defunct Thai Rak Thai Party and turned it into a formidable arsenal for the People Power Party and won the election hands down. His style of campaigning stood in sharp contrast to that of his nearest rival, which was unbelievably and unnecessarily too principled. Samak unabashedly proclaimed himself to be Thaksin's nominee, and he promised to undo what was done during the 15-month political void that filled Thailand with uncertainties. Though it is believed that Samak may not be the real power in the forthcoming government, credit must be given to him for leading the PPP to victory in the poll.

But Samak is also, or can be, much more than just a nominee of Thaksin. They are very much alike in so many ways. Just like Thaksin, Samak does not belong to the club of the faint hearted. Samak inspires either hatred or admiration. Just like Thaksin, he is not afraid to speak his mind. He makes no bones about who he likes or dislikes. Samak is constantly combative and will fight for his beliefs with a tenacity not commonly known as a trait of Thai politicians. And he has a long track record to show that.

For this reason Samak could emerge as Thaksin would probably never have imagined. Perhaps it may be too soon to assume that Samak will discard his nominee "front" and come into his own once installed as PM. At the very least he must know that he will not be removed by extra-parliamentary means because the people will not allow it this time round. The military have learned their lesson and have gone back to barracks where they belong, hopefully for good.

But if Samak is to be remembered as a good PM, this is what he must do. He must be his own man. He must assemble his own Cabinet and make sure that he is surrounded by men and women of ability and integrity, not hangers-on looking for fame and fortune. He must take his government into action at once, and not receive orders from Hong Kong or London. Storm clouds are gathering ahead and Samak must steer us out of harm's way.

For this reason, too, we need to give him support, so this country can move ahead. Samak may not be ideal as a PM, but there can be no doubt that he is now in charge. Despite his abrasiveness and vulgarity, Samak deserves a chance. His government, however formed, could offer more hope than the do-nothing one that is about to depart.

Prachyadavi Tavedikul

Bangkok

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People can still put MPs in their place

It is not correct to think that after an election the MPs and Cabinet chosen by the majority in parliament have absolute power to do anything they want.

We elect our representatives to act on our behalf in our interest, not for the politicians' interest. In casting their votes, the people do not give away the country to these MPs. The people still own the country and retain the right to demand good services from the politicians. The perception of politicians being able to do anything after winning the election without taking into consideration the views of the people or the public interest is not correct. If MPs pass laws that are against the constitution, or Cabinet members break any law, the relevant authorities can take the matter to the courts. Elected politicians owe the people absolute loyalty. If their performance is poor, people can protest. Getting elected does not necessarily mean the winner is competent. They can win without demonstrating the necessary skills to govern, or without the courage to discuss before the public their views on various issues facing the country. Some of them change course or renage on their promises.

Politicians have to be reminded that we, the people, still own this country. Their performance will determine whether they deserve praise or condemnation.

Prichar

Bangkok

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Opposition must bide its time honourably

A message to Abhisit and the Democrats: the greatest virtue in the world is to bear defeat with a smile and sincerely congratulate the winner.

Meechai Burapa

Chiang Mai

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Too noisy here? Stay in civilised Europe

Re: "Amplified broadcasts an odious imposition", Letters, January 27.

Chris E, how sad that your early morning coffee was disturbed by the reality of everyday life in Thailand, all 90 decibels of it.

You must be one of those sad, limited travellers who have never been outside civilised Europe before.

Now here's the test for you: try walking down the high street in Cheshire UK on a Friday or Saturday night after pub closing time. Then write to the Daily Mail complaining that the inebriated oafs are vomiting, urinating and shouting obscenities as they stagger home breaking bottles and kicking empty beer cans on their way. Then wait for the headlines in the Daily Mail.

Now, if you do want a nice quiet holiday, I suggest one of those civilised European places you mention, and leave us here in Thailand to cope with the early morning temple music as best we can

I have left the so-called civilised country of England to get away from moaning minnies such as you.

Do avoid the noisy early mornings and stay at home is my suggestion.

Brian E

Bangkok

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