Column: A major or minor conspiracy theory?
Since living in Thailand, the idea of 'coincidence' has become an increasingly vague concept. From the striking events in Dutch and world politics to the recent return of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to Thailand; it all seems part of a larger script. This complex interplay of political and personal interests creates a story that even Hollywood could not have concocted. Here we dive deeper into what is really going on.
Column: Conversation between two gentlemen
A fictional dialogue between Prayut and Srettha reveals the inner machinations of Thai politics. In this conversation, they discuss their plans, alliances and challenges, from Srettha's new appointment as prime minister to Thaksin's shadow work, and even personal favours. The dialogue provides an insight into the secrets of power, where political games and negotiations are the norm.
Column: The quasi-democracy of the elected prime minister
The complex and often mysterious process of choosing a prime minister in Thailand raises many questions from both a constitutional and a democratic perspective. While the Netherlands wrestled with the idea of a directly elected mayor, Thailand offers a fascinating look at the staged choice of a prime minister. The current procedure, as described in the Thai Constitution, has both supporters and opponents and raises questions about the true nature of democracy. In a world where political power games and personal interests often predominate, what does real democracy even mean? In this contemplative posting we dive deeper into this subject, based on both the Thai and Dutch experiences.
Column: Response from Kuhn Pipat, the outgoing and likely next Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand
With his column, Cris offers a satirical perspective on Thai politics, emphasizing their unique form of government and coalition dynamics. The focus is on populist A4 pages, the influence of the monarchy and technological innovations. While the tone of this play is light-hearted and humorous, it also contains serious criticism and insights about the Thai political system and its leaders.
Column: Speech by Kuhn Tina van der Chee
Dear members of the Thai parliament, of the senate and all nice Thai people at home. I am addressing all of you because I think I also know a little bit about Thai politics, which has been through quite a bit in recent years. I come there very often on vacation and read Thailandblog.
Interview with Khun Thaksin Shinawatra (Former Prime Minister), aka Tony Woodsome, part 2.
Good morning Khun Thaksin, or should I say Tony Woodsome? You say Tony. I would like to get everyone, especially the people of Thailand, used to that name and fast.
Int: Hello Khun Don. Welcome. I'm Chris from Thailandblog. Don: Thank you. Yes, I was glad you called me for an interview. I am a big fan of Thailandblog. Int: Really? But Thailandblog is in Dutch. Can you read Dutch?
Column: Interview with Yingluck Shinawatra (Former Prime Minister Khun Poo), NKYA (Not Known Yet As) Nancy Ironmany
Good afternoon Khun Poo. We haven't heard from you for a long time; only a few pictures with brother Thaksin in the press when there is something to do like a birthday or New Year. But if I understand correctly, that will change.
Column: 'Interview with Khun Anupong Paochinda (Interior Minister)'
Hello Khun Anupong. It seems very quiet in your department since there are no more demonstrations.
Column: Interview with Khun Jurin Laksanawisit (Democrats; Minister of Commerce of Thailand)
Hi khun Jurin. I was a little surprised that you called me for an interview. It is not very often that a politician calls a journalist for an appointment.
Many tourists and expats, also of Dutch origin, complain now and then about the way they are treated by the Thai government (immigration, police). Often it is about the lack of clarity of rules, but much more about the application of the rules: arbitrariness, differences in interpretation, lack of empathy and flexibility when a little extra is paid. Tourists and expats seem to have no rights. They are not, but which tourist or expat goes to the Thai court if he/she is wronged?
Interview with Khun Phipat (Minister of Tourism AND Sports)
Hi khun Phipat. It's been a few years since I last interviewed you. I think that was before the Covid pandemic. Phipat: It could very well be. And times have really changed, especially when it comes to my portfolio, tourism and also sports.
A candid interview with Prime Minister Prayut
Good afternoon Kuhn Prayut. Thank you for finding the time for this interview. And also that you promised to answer all my questions on any subject. I know that you are only interviewed by your own people and that you have read the questions in advance so that you can rehearse the answers. However, I can assure readers that this is not the case now.
Just a Wednesday afternoon
Thaksin: Hi Pae, how is my daughter today?
Paetongtarn: I'm fine. Not so hot here in the Isan and every day a shower of rain.
Just another Tuesday afternoon in Bangkok
Praw: hello Kuhn Tu, have you eaten yet? Pray: yes, Kuhn Pom, and delicious too! Praw: what was on the menu? Pray: I'm not exactly sure, but I got a free lunch box from one of the MPs. There were enough, she said. Pad kapao moo, loko kai dao. Wonderfully spicy. And a fried egg is always good for the male hormones, isn't it? Praw: yes. I'm not like that anymore...
Interview with the PM
Kuhn Chris: Sawadee crab Kuhn Too. You know that we made an appointment for this interview two weeks ago. The aim was to go through the situation in the country with you. But given all that has happened these weeks, it will be a long interview or we will have to reschedule for a second interview.