It's a political circus
Re: "Freeman Thaksin awaits docs", and "New PM looks to future", (BP, Aug 19).
You must excuse me for taking so long to write this (chuckle, chuckle) response to recent articles in the Post. I am having a hard time stopping myself from rolling on the floor laughing.
The first piece of humour goes to the so-called certificate of innocence to be given to whatshisname in the next 120 days. Certificate of innocence? He is anything but innocent and certainly mimics the traits of someone named Trump. He was convicted. By definition, innocent means that someone did not do anything wrong. Therefore, he is anything but innocent. That piece of paper should say "released from judicial jurisdiction".
The second humorous article shows a picture of whatshisname in an official uniform. I was under the impression that convicts who held a political post were barred from wearing a uniform that leads people to believe that said person is in good standing in the political arena. Of course, he is probably indicating that he will soon be -- or already is -- calling the shots behind the scenes for the new PM. In title only? After all, he stated that she was not ready to assume that role, so why was she appointed to it? And, is there anyone who actually believes that he will not be giving directions (oops, spiritually giving guidance) to her 24/7? Of course, it is my opinion that all of this was planned and agreed to before his triumphant return. Can't wait to see who comes back here soon to a waiting commutation of sentence and VIP treatment for some malady that requires DoC intervention until release time -- if you know what I mean.
Come to think of it, shouldn't all of this be part of the comic section of the paper? But then TIT (This is Thailand).
Substance matters
I have a recommendation for the Bangkok Post's reporters and editors. I've observed that articles frequently focus on process and fail to disclose the substance of the issue. Here are two examples from Sunday's paper.
A front-page special report focuses on how "conservatives" feel strengthened and will stand up to "progressives". But nowhere in the two-page report does it tell what the policy differences are between conservatives and progressives. I'm left with the impression that maybe there are no substantive differences, only political power ambitions.
Another article discusses the "global health emergency" of mpox (monkeypox). But the article doesn't say what the symptoms are, how to prevent it, or how to treat it. If it's such an emergency, why leave out the most important information?
I suggest that any article longer than, say, six paragraphs should include at least one paragraph about the substance of the issue.
Spot the leader
Re: "Tricky minefield lies ahead for PM", (Opinion, Aug 19).
"A picture is worth a thousand words", or so the saying goes.
Your photograph is captioned: "Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra arrives with his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, for the royal endorsement ceremony appointing her as new prime minister yesterday."
Thaksin is at the forefront of the photograph as his daughter trails behind him, adjusting her skirt as she goes.
So who is the leader?
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