Politicians and officials are servants, not bosses

They also have the duty to protect at all times the citizens of our Kingdom. Elected political officers right up to the prime minister have the duty to work for the nation and its citizens, as they are (no matter what they think of themselves) public servants. That means: servants to the nation and its citizens.

In reality, all of the above is the biggest joke ever, as all of the above only really care for themselves and improving their own status, and never ever give a single thought to the nation or its citizens. In principle, they are without any doubt traitors to our nation and its citizens. If you do not agree with the above statements, just read the news every day and analyse what they ever do for us or the nation. Prove me wrong.

PAKORN

BANGKOK

Firefighters are a credit to the country

All too often, Thai newspapers carry stories of self-serving politicians who put their own interests ahead of those of their constituents and the nation; of bureaucrats who feather their own nests at the expense of local and national projects; of military and police personnel involved in nefarious activities in order to supplement their income and future retirement; and of tourists who visit this easy-going country to participate in activities that would be prohibited in their own countries.

On a positive note, I would like to draw attention to a fine band of professionals and volunteers who regularly risk their lives in performing a service to the country. I refer to the personnel of the Metropolitan and Provincial Fire Services. Late last Wednesday night I witnessed (not for the first time) the fire brigade in action when a fire broke out in a local community next to my apartment complex in Yan Nawa. The prompt response of the fire services contained the fire and prevented it from spreading within the predominantly wooden housing area. It is amazing to see these firefighters in action given the adverse conditions they often operate under. Difficult access to and within the fire scene, availability of mains water and, more often than not, dated equipment appear to be minor obstacles to them in getting on with their job. Congratulations and well done.

WM LAWRENCE

BANGKOK

Srinakarin Road: a neglected tribute

Named after the late Princess Mother, Srinakarin Road serves as a partial inner ring road, connecting northern and eastern parts of Bangkok. It is one of the city's busiest traffic arteries. Why then has it been so neglected?

This year flooding is worse than ever, but it floods every year. The surface is an uneven patchwork of concrete, tarmac and holes. Why? Srinakarin is the only major road intersecting the elevated Bang Na-Chon Buri expressway. Provision was made for exit and access ramps, but they have never been connected. Why? Srinakarin Road is not sign-posted on either the lower or elevated Bang Na-Chon Buri highways. Why? Access from both directions is limited to a single, unmarked lane, resulting in a three-lane queue fighting to gain access. Why?

Obviously it is not in someone's interest for Srinakarin Road to function efficiently. Ask who's revenue could be affected and you might have the answers.

SRINAKARIN RESIDENT

BANGKOK

Let's keep the hamburgers, please

Re: "Visionary award for US President", Letters, October 15.

Eric Bahrt made a good point with his ironic letter. No person should receive a Nobel Prize for what he thinks, or because he is better than a previous president, but rather, for what he has accomplished.

I also agree with Eric's sentiments about "peace and love", "cruelty to animals", "no more animal research or fur coats". There was, however, one phrase in Eric's visions that I must take exception to. His statement that there should be no more hamburgers leads me to believe that rather than receive a Nobel Peace Prize, he should be placed on trial for war crimes. Based on the required qualifications for similar actions by today's standards, it would seem appropriate.

JOHN ARNONE

YASOTHON