Thailand has a volatile political structure compared with most western civilisations and it's politics are rather polarised. It is developing almost hourly. It is as well to be aware of the intricacies before setting out for Thailand.
Don't get involved in political debate with Thai friends unless your are very sure of your ground! There is no sitting on the fence with Thai Politics - in spite of the general ethos of life being - 'the middle way'!
Thailand's Prime Minister - Abhisit Vejjajiva - seeks to end The Political turmoil and conflicts of the country. - January 22nd 2009.
The Thai Prime Minister is giving important consideration to economic recovery and political stability in the country. He has also called for the restoration for the rule of law to be restored. This may seem to suggest that he - along with many Thais - do not feel that the rule of law is currently in force!
At a formal dinner and speech for foreign news correspondents, he said that artificial divisions between rural and urban areas needed a plan for a "Grand Reconciliation".
For four years now, Thailand has been besotted by political tensions between urban and and rural factions, mainly bought about by the seeming favouritism by ex Prime Minister Thaksin Shiawatra of the rural areas - with their large voting populations! He pursued populist policies - needed nonetheless in the poorer areas - but which alienated him to the urban middle classes. He was deposed with a clinical bloodless coup in September 2006.
Since then, there have been several other prime ministers and governments!
Have you say - in a reasonable manner please - on Thai Politics. Constructive and informative submissions only please.
