Sometimes the minority must take the lead

The so-called "rural majority" is not a proper electorate but a group of straw voters, to coin a phrase, cynically gathered and manipulated by political gangsters. The struggle is like that between Al Capone's heavily armed militia and the FBI than between principled voters and a cynical elite.

But here's the point that nobody dares mention: can an intelligent, well-educated minority champion democracy against an ignorant, uneducated majority? Of course they can, and more than that, they must - because who else will, or can? Khun Thanong's example of the Boston Tea Party is well-taken indeed, even if he doesn't mention the fact that the small group of blowhards that dumped the tea in Boston Harbour wore war-paint and feathers - which today would translate into the crash-helmets, goggles, neck-scarves and leather gloves adopted by the PAD.

LUNG KIP

CHIANG MAI

Somchai's uselessness is no surprise

What did Thailand think was going to happen when Somchai was "elected" by his PPP cronies? Did you think the PAD was going to rejoice and just go home to celebrate?

In his entire political career Somchai has been incompetent. Name three things he has done to help his fellow countrymen other than his wealthy friends and political cronies. Nothing comes to mind. He is absolutely incapable of being the prime minister. It is only a matter of time before he too passes in the night. We can only hope and pray that the next PM is not affiliated with Thaksin and the PPP and has the best interests of the country in his heart.

DISENCHANTED

BANGKOK

Sad to see Thailand tearing itself apart

I am disturbed by the violence and lawlessness that has taken place over the last few months. I don't understand this as being the Thai way. Thailand is a democratic country and the democratic process should be followed, and the results respected as the will of the people. Shame on all of you. This is not in the best interests of the country.

Also, why blame the PM for the deaths of the two individuals? The police and the army should have been brought in long ago to end the occupation of government buildings. If you defy the law and act like hooligans, then you bear the blame of the outcome.

H C MCCAFFREY

NEW MEXICO, USA

Courts must not be swayed by political crisis

If the selfish puppet-master in London cannot orchestrate a military coup by directing the police to kill PAD protesters, then I wonder if he is turning to his corrupted friends in Cambodia to give ultimatums that could result in other kinds of insecurity. I am appalled by the tolerance shown to this man, who seems to prefer death and destruction to fairness and justice for all. Thai people, please be very sceptical of anything that is happening with this current government.

 Thailand needs peace and stability so the Thai courts can rule on Thaksin's crimes and he can forever be known as a criminal.

DAVID B

TOKYO

Army keeps a cool head and stays out of the fray

Is the PAD deliberately trying to provoke a coup, or is it imitating the government, which is stumbling around? First, the PAD takes over Government House, which elsewhere would be treason. Now, it seeks to provoke the police by barricading their HQ. For his part, PM Somchai didn't know what to do when the PAD marched, and so let it be occupied by the mob without resistance.

It seems, ironically, the only sane people around are in the armed forces, which, under increasing pressure from both sides, is striving to stay neutral - as it should be.

PAD participants should follow their leaders only if those leaders are willing to stick to lawful, non-violent means to hold the government accountable.

BURIN KANTABUTRA

BANGKOK