Thaksin to blame if PM is attacked in Chiang Mai

Thaksin Shinawatra should be reminded that if anything untoward should happen during PM Abhisit's visit here, it is he who must take full responsibility. Why?

Thaksin's red-shirt supporters in Chiang Mai have been a thorn in the side of the city's business community, and the province's efforts to regain its reputation as a peaceful and friendly tourist destination - a tradition that has been built even before Thaksin was born.

Thaksin has shown time and again his irresponsible behaviour in the past. The killings at Tak Bai, Krue Se and in the drugs war during which scores died brutally and without trial, should serve as a reminder to us all.From now on, if anything bad should happen to Chiang Mai's reputation as a result of his cronies' rabble-rousing, Thaksin must take the blame for being the cause of it.

CHAVALIT VAN

CHIANG MAI

The Policies of 'Toxin' aggravated South crisis

General Anupong Paochinda's stance of viewing the "insurgents" as criminals seems appropriate for the reasons he gave - they have killed and maimed innocent civilians, as well as damaged schools, clinics and personal property.

Chavalit Yongchaiyudh is, of course, off the wall, as has been his pattern since entering politics.

It is worth noting that the character of the violence in the South changed right after "Toxin" came to power. Prior to that, the "insurgents" comprised two groups - common criminals trying to mask their straightforward criminal acts as political, and the oppressed and persecuted hitting back at corrupt authorities.

Virtually all acts of violence were against police or soldiers. Only after the implementation of Toxin's ill-advised and scurrilous policies did acts of violence broaden to include mostly civilians. The evil and reprehensible incidents at Krue Se Mosque - Pattani (April 2004: 32 killed by the military in an unnecessary shootout.) and Tak Bai - Pattani (October 2004: 84 peaceful demonstrators die in military custody) occurred under the direction of Toxin. His suspension of the rule of law created a climate of injustice, fostering a pervasive fear, empowering criminal elements.

Currently, one can assume that those committing violence are receiving financial support from those who think they can benefit from the unrest.

Inevitably, the trail must lead to Toxin, since he will go to any length to undermine the current government to get back his ill-gotten Bt76 billion.

GIBSON MARTI