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Published on February 9, 2008

We can hold our heads up high, as we are now citizens of a democratic country. No more eyesore headlines from news agencies that keep referring to Thailand as a military-ruled state. Even Burma and China are happy with us.

From now on, we shall see only good signs. Yes, Thailand has got back on track again.

Who says an election is not all about democracy? Thailand has risen to receive recognition from the world again thanks mainly to Samak Sundaravej's newly elected government. Period.

Having a new government is a just a reward for voters and it can only bring us hope and optimism. After all, we all went to the polling booths to vote for a democratic government, right?

I'm optimistic because Thaksin Shinawatra will return to Thailand before May. His return will definitely make more than half of the country content. And if half of the nation is happy, this must be something good.

I'm optimistic because Prime Minister Samak will bring back the old populist policies. Just the name 'populist' suggests it will be popular, and that should be good for the country.

I'm optimistic because the premier has also announced investment plans for nine routes on the mass-transit projects in Bangkok. It shows how much he cares for the voters and commuters. It reminds me of Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic's light-hearted remark. He told fans after the match that he knew they'd been rooting for his opponent, but said, "I love you guys anyway."

I'm optimistic because the premier says let the rule of karma dictate how long his government lasts. That is promotion of Buddhism and I feel great.

I'm optimistic because Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama didn't hand-pick Arisman Pongruangrong as his adviser and secretary. The ministry's officials are happy and so am I.

I'm optimistic because Interior Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung has announced a war on drugs as one of his priorities. All drug dealers must be very afraid, which is good for us.

I'm optimistic because Commerce Minister Mingkwan Sangsuwan will make an effort to control the prices of goods. Although he says this policy is aimed at solving the economic problems of the rural people, I think it will be good for all of us. I heard that the price of cars is one of the items he will be looking at.

I'm optimistic because foreign embassies, European and American in particular, have recently reopened official diplomatic ties with the government and they are very enthusiastic in their support of the newly elected government. Their moral support to the government means that trust will return to Thailand. And it is a good thing.

I'm optimistic because Uraiwan Thienthong, Anongwan Thepsuthin and Poonpirom Liptapanlop have got ministerial posts. Of course, they are wives of key politicians, but aren't you proud that women - at least three - are equally as advanced in their careers as their hubbies. I'm happy that women are not extinct in Parliament yet.

I'm optimistic because General Saprang Kalayanamitr will resign as chairman of TOT and Airports of Thailand next week, signalling a weakened military influence in Thai state enterprises. Even better, he said that he loves the country far too much to cheat. It sounds very touching.

I'm optimistic because Thailand has never run out of patriots. I used to believe that the patriots stepped forward only during an election campaign, but I am wrong.

My optimism would not have been so great without the efforts made by people including:

Samak, Chalerm, Mingkwan, Nevin and Chai Chidchob, Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, Banharn Silapaarcha, Snoh and Uraiwan Thienthong, Vatana Assavahame, Noppadon, Surapong Suebwonglee, Somchai Wongsawat, Suwit Khunkitti, Sahas Banditkul, Sanan Kachornprasart, Jakrapob Penkair, Choosak Sirinin, Pradit Pataraprasit, Ranongrak Suwanchawee, Weerasak Kowsurat, Sutha Chansaeng, Somsak Prissanananthakul, Sompat Kaewpijit, Theerachai Saenkaew, Santi Prompat, Songsak Thongsri, Anurak Jureemart, Somsak and Anongwan Thepsuthin, Man Pattanothai, Wiroon Techapaiboon, Banyin Tangpaporn, Suwat and Poonpirom Liptapanlop, Supon Fongngam, Sithichai Kowsurat, Sompong Amornwiwat, Yaowapa Wongsawas, Adisorn Piangket, Prayuth Mahagitsiri, Sonthaya Kunplome, Chaturon Chaisang, General Sonthi Boonyaratglin and General Saprang.

Everybody give them a big hand.

Clap, clap, clap.

Veena Thoopkrajae

The Nation