Sunday, September 7, 2008

The Options for Thailand


Thailand is in the grip of a stalemate. The Prime Minister will not back down in the face of opposition to his rule. Neither side is strong enough to push the other aside. The BBC News listed a list of possible end-game scenarios.

1.) Mr Samak holds a referendum

This would take place 30 days after Senate approval, however no one is saying what this referendum would solve.

2.) The government backs down

Mr. Samak isn't giving up power. Not at his age. This is his last chance to rule the country.

3.) Mr Samak calls a snap election

He's not letting anyone else have a shot at his seat.

4.) The protesters back down

Their efforts are very well-financed by the PAD leaders and army.

5.) Mr Samak's party is dissolved

Samak will just ignore the ruling which wouldn't come for months.

6.) Mr Samak uses violence

Neither the military nor the police have a dog in this fight.

7.) Pro-government supporters join the fray

PPP fighters are too few in number.

8.) The military launches a coup

The army isn't ready for another 2 years of military rule.

9.) The king intervenes

King Bhumibol Adulyadej is above this strife which is basically a struggle to see who exploits the Thai people

Personally I think nothing will happen. Samak will remain in power until he's bored with this confrontation. He'll step down put in a surrogate who will resign and the new government will be elected in a snap election.

They will not be the Democrats.

But maybe a surprise party calling for the abandonment of old politics and this is a development neither the PPP or PAD want.

Be careful what you wish for.

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