May
14
Updated Map of "Bangkok Dangerous"
By Richard Barrow 
Friday 14th May, 2010 | 381 words | Category: Bangkok | 53 feedbacks »
The situation in Bangkok took a turn for the worse last night. It all started when the Thai Prime Minister cancelled the proposed elections for November and sent the army in to surround the Red protest site (see google map "Bangkok Dangerous"). If you study the map, you will see that the Red Zone covers a large area that includes Bangkok's main shopping district at Siam Square and Ratchaprasong. With the elections now cancelled, the Reds had nothing to lose. We are not sure yet exactly what happened last night. We don't think it was the start of a crackdown. However, the international media reported that Red Shirt military leader "Seh Daeng" was allegedly shot by a sniper shortly after dark. It happened while he was in the middle of being interviewed by a group of reporters including a journalist from the New York Times. I really hope that this wasn't an attempted assassination by the Thai government. At this moment in time, we do not know who shot Seh Daeng who remains in critical condition in hospital.
The situation at the moment is that all BTS skytrain stations and MRT underground stations in or near the Red Zone are closed today. All shopping malls in this area are also closed. The US, UK and Dutch Embassies are all closed today. The army is supposed to be controlling the perimeter but reports coming in suggest otherwise. Last night, the red shirt protesters were able to stop and turn back a bus load of police reinforcements. During the night there was sporadic gunfire and explosions. Clashes left at least one protester shot dead and nine injured. This morning, it seems quieter but we are receiving reports of firecracker explosions at Sala Daeng area in front of Lumphini Park. As I said before, Bangkok is a large place and it is easy to avoid the danger zone as the red shirts are not mobile at the moment. However, many embassies advise their nationals to avoid all but essential travel to Bangkok. But, the rest of Thailand is safe and you won't meet any protesters on the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters.
Visit the "Bangkok Dangerous Map" for live updates. You can also follow me on Twitter @RichardBarrow for latest reports from Bangkok.
Do you have any questions about Thailand? Maybe you are planning a holiday or just want to learn more about Thai culture. Have all of your questions answered for free at ThailandQA.com. These forums are part of the family friendly Paknam Web Network.
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53 comments
Comment from: Bangna Betty
Well it's a waiting game for us all! Out here at Bangna things are relatively quiet except for the occasional helicopter going overhead. Spare a thought for all the teenagers at Bangkok's international schools who are sitting their IGCSE and IB exams at this time - they can't afford to get distracted at this crucial time!
14/05/2010 @ 15:28
Comment from: Dirk · http://www.murdermystery.asia
Nice blog!! We are supposed to fly to BKK next week to perform at the Plaza Athenee for 3 shows.
I understand that most of the embassies in the close proximity are closed. What you think about the area? Is it relatively safe there?
I understand that most of the embassies in the close proximity are closed. What you think about the area? Is it relatively safe there?
14/05/2010 @ 17:21
Difficult to say as it all could be over this weekend. But, I have been saying that for a while. The venue you are visiting is in the danger zone. I cannot say more than that at this time.
14/05/2010 @ 19:57
Comment from: Jack from Canada
Do you feel that the Ratchsaprong area will be cleared uout by May 27th?? We are planning to arrive My 27th till May 30. We will only come in if the malls in the area are open.
14/05/2010 @ 20:50
Difficult to say. It could very well be all over by this weekend. But, the yellow shirts went on for 190 days! It has "only" been about two months so far.
14/05/2010 @ 21:09
Comment from: Gary
Dear Richard,
The latest unrest in the capital is nothing new. It will continue to happen, every so many years, followed by brisk times of renewal and prosperity.
However, during economic bad times, expect these things to happen, it's rare when they don't in Thailand.
btw, KEEP A LOW PROFILE! It's far too easy for expat "locals" to have a false sense of security during difficult times.
I've personally seen a few get shot/killed during these political unrests. Thinking you are not a target, think again friend!
After this latest ridicule of society ends, things will return to mai pen rai, but until they do, it can be extreme mai sabai...take heed please
The latest unrest in the capital is nothing new. It will continue to happen, every so many years, followed by brisk times of renewal and prosperity.
However, during economic bad times, expect these things to happen, it's rare when they don't in Thailand.
btw, KEEP A LOW PROFILE! It's far too easy for expat "locals" to have a false sense of security during difficult times.
I've personally seen a few get shot/killed during these political unrests. Thinking you are not a target, think again friend!
After this latest ridicule of society ends, things will return to mai pen rai, but until they do, it can be extreme mai sabai...take heed please
15/05/2010 @ 01:15
Comment from: Stephanie
I was very shocked and saddened when I ready of the events that happened in Bangkok today. I am flying to Bangkok in 10 days. I am traveling alone, being that Thailand has always been a relatively safe country to travel in. Do you feel this is a bad decision based on the current status? I am not going to go into the dangerous area you have highlighted on the map. Any thoughts or insights are much appreciated.
15/05/2010 @ 01:41
Good question Stephanie!
My granddaughter visited Thailand last year during some unrest, BUT...she stayed mainly on Koh Samui.
You won't find any trouble in Thailand if you stay away from Bangkok.[most likely].
Have fun, Thailand is a great country and the people are wonderful, just stay away from political unrest areas, in general.
My granddaughter visited Thailand last year during some unrest, BUT...she stayed mainly on Koh Samui.
You won't find any trouble in Thailand if you stay away from Bangkok.[most likely].
Have fun, Thailand is a great country and the people are wonderful, just stay away from political unrest areas, in general.
15/05/2010 @ 06:01
Comment from: anonymouse
That former Thai general who was shot in the head had been parading around beneath a military cap ringed with grenade pins... And someone had been tossing grenades hither and thither over recent weeks... I doubt the doctors are working hard to save him.
15/05/2010 @ 06:15
Comment from: Yvonne
We are arriving in Bangkok 20th May for a shopping trip. Seems all centres are closed and imagine that the nighlife is probably in this vicinity.
YOur updated feedback is appreciated
YOur updated feedback is appreciated
15/05/2010 @ 07:13
Comment from: Andrew Penney
I know Thailand well, and I love Bangkok. As a Singaporean, I felt deeply ashamed when a Singaporean Wealth Fund was insensitive enough to enrich Thaksin Shinawatra in a transaction which would never be tolerated in my own country. I hope I don't offend too many people here if I say that I have a Thai family friend who spends a quarter of every month in my family home in Singapore, and according to her, the Red Shirts are being paid between 300 and 500 baht each, per day. Nothing sadder for me than uneducated country folk being bought and manipulated, and nothing more frightening than the idea of a Thai "oligarch" with billions of dollars at his disposal using his money to put good Thai people -- protestors and soldiers alike -- in harm's way for his own personal interests. For me, the general who was shot in the head represents the worst of swagger, bravado, and money politics. And now he's a hero? This is disgusting. Who stood to gain more from his "martyrdom", the Thai Government (which has been VERY careful about putting civilians under fire), or Thaksin, who might be feeling desperate? *shakes head* -- AP
15/05/2010 @ 14:12
Comment from: silaphinemowlaew
Ruddy hell,what a mess!
I sincerely doubt it if your average country person would even indulge in destroying public property, but I must say it's hitting the fan once more.
Let's all hope and pray it doesn't get any worse and keep our fingers crossed for things to get better, however unlikely it may seem at the moment.
Just stay away from political upheaval of any kind s the best way of going about it right now.
Excellent article, Richard, keep us all posted!
I sincerely doubt it if your average country person would even indulge in destroying public property, but I must say it's hitting the fan once more.
Let's all hope and pray it doesn't get any worse and keep our fingers crossed for things to get better, however unlikely it may seem at the moment.
Just stay away from political upheaval of any kind s the best way of going about it right now.
Excellent article, Richard, keep us all posted!
15/05/2010 @ 19:28
Comment from: Harry
To Andrew Penney
Do you still believe it is just about one man and his money? It seems that most people can't get their heads around the possibility that maybe these protesters are actually trying to achieve at least some sort of social reforms, and getting finally a recognition from the Bangkok elite that people in Isan and north of Thailand are human beings as well, not just cheap labour force.
Do you still believe it is just about one man and his money? It seems that most people can't get their heads around the possibility that maybe these protesters are actually trying to achieve at least some sort of social reforms, and getting finally a recognition from the Bangkok elite that people in Isan and north of Thailand are human beings as well, not just cheap labour force.
15/05/2010 @ 20:25
Comment from: Andrew Penney
Hello Harry. No, I don't think it is only about one man and his money. But his money (and his personality and past conduct; what I call "tidak sopan" here in the language of my tiny country, population only 4.8 million) are a huge factor in the equation. You are talking about a man who is shameless about cozying up to powerful friends in Cambodia. What next? If Thaksin is lucky, maybe another one of Than Shwe's daughters needs a big wedding in Myanmar... he could buy some friends there now that even Hun Sen is feeling embarrassed to support him openly. I support the people of Isan, and their aspirations, but I think they are being exploited. And believe me, I'm not in love with hyper-privileged hi-so Thais either. My post was expressing my sadness that -- as always -- the uneducated rural Thais are being shafted by money politics. My Thai friends are divided on this; but even the ones which sympathize with the Red Shirts are filled with sadness by the way in which gullible poor Thais are being bought and manipulated and basically turned into cannon fodder. Take care -- AP
15/05/2010 @ 22:45
Comment from: Andrew Penney
P/s: What social reforms are the Red Shirts asking for? Specifically, I mean, vs just wanting to be heard and a change in government? His Majesty the King has spent decades criss-crossing his country tirelessly to improve the lives of his rural subjects, with his knowledge of cartography, water security, and agriculture. My Thai friends -- even those who support the Red Shirt cause -- revere their King for that. Some of them received their diplomas from him. Even they tell me that the King did not only show his face to look good, he would make repeat visits to ensure follow-up. What has Thaksin done, other than throw cash at the poor and broadcast his own propaganda to illiterate people via his Thaksin Fox News? Thanks for giving me the room to express these views. I respect *yours*. AP
15/05/2010 @ 22:52
Comment from: Harry
Ah, interesting points you brought up, unfortunately I cannot give you my views to some of these matters as I'm living in Thailand...
What Thaksin has done is he has united lot of rural poor and given them the idea that their voice should be heard as well. I fully understand he didn't do it out of his good heart but for selfish motives, a crook is a crook, but he managed to raise the awareness anyhow. But suggesting that these people could not possibly have opinions of their own, and couldn't decide for themselves is exactly the reason why so many red shirts are demonstrating.
To another matter, I find it interesting how many people suddenly view the Thai army as some sort of saviour of democracy, as this far they have been the biggest threat to democracy in Thailand for decades...
What Thaksin has done is he has united lot of rural poor and given them the idea that their voice should be heard as well. I fully understand he didn't do it out of his good heart but for selfish motives, a crook is a crook, but he managed to raise the awareness anyhow. But suggesting that these people could not possibly have opinions of their own, and couldn't decide for themselves is exactly the reason why so many red shirts are demonstrating.
To another matter, I find it interesting how many people suddenly view the Thai army as some sort of saviour of democracy, as this far they have been the biggest threat to democracy in Thailand for decades...
15/05/2010 @ 23:19
Comment from: Andrew Penney
I hear you, Harry. And I actually also agree with you on everything you wrote, too. I, too, am bewildered by the way people are suddenly viewing the Thai army as the saviour of democracy; I am uncomfortably aware of the history of "hok tulaa" etc.
That said, I think that the Thai army has done a lot to repair its reputation since the 1970s. They were not doing badly until the Thais themselves decided that they weren't troubled by extra-judicial killings in the drug wars during the Thaksin premiership. And we all know what is happening in the Muslim South...
It's a big, complex society, and I just feel very upset that the people who can least afford it are being turned into cannon fodder by cynical money politics. As a human being, I worry that Thaksin's financial resources -- and his ambitions -- are amplifying a very bad situation. And *he* will not be feeling the pain when more Thais die...
Now that I know you live in Thailand, I'd like to say, "chok dii na" and wish you safety. Thank you for being so polite to me.
Take care -- Andrew
That said, I think that the Thai army has done a lot to repair its reputation since the 1970s. They were not doing badly until the Thais themselves decided that they weren't troubled by extra-judicial killings in the drug wars during the Thaksin premiership. And we all know what is happening in the Muslim South...
It's a big, complex society, and I just feel very upset that the people who can least afford it are being turned into cannon fodder by cynical money politics. As a human being, I worry that Thaksin's financial resources -- and his ambitions -- are amplifying a very bad situation. And *he* will not be feeling the pain when more Thais die...
Now that I know you live in Thailand, I'd like to say, "chok dii na" and wish you safety. Thank you for being so polite to me.
Take care -- Andrew
15/05/2010 @ 23:55
Comment from: Lloyd
@Andrew Penny
re: Nothing sadder for me than uneducated country folk being bought and manipulated, and nothing more frightening than the idea of a Thai "oligarch" with billions of dollars at his disposal using his money to put good Thai people -- protestors and soldiers alike -- in harm's way for his own personal interests.
This shows just how "uneducated" most people are about whats going on in Thailand. The exact same policy of paying people was used by the PAD leaders, my wifes father who is a stout Red shirt supporter who however dislikes Thaksin, was quite happily paid to join a group of yellow shirted protesters at BKK airport and was paid 250 baht per day plus food and basic accommodation.
re: Nothing sadder for me than uneducated country folk being bought and manipulated, and nothing more frightening than the idea of a Thai "oligarch" with billions of dollars at his disposal using his money to put good Thai people -- protestors and soldiers alike -- in harm's way for his own personal interests.
This shows just how "uneducated" most people are about whats going on in Thailand. The exact same policy of paying people was used by the PAD leaders, my wifes father who is a stout Red shirt supporter who however dislikes Thaksin, was quite happily paid to join a group of yellow shirted protesters at BKK airport and was paid 250 baht per day plus food and basic accommodation.
16/05/2010 @ 09:05
Comment from: Andrew Penney
No disrespect to your father in law, but what does this tell you about the people who are wearing red shirts in Bangkok today?
I support the aspirations of the Red Shirts (I can read Thai and I'm a huge mor lum/ loog thung fan), but I can't -- not by any stretch of the imagination -- think of them as "freedom fighters" or fighters against oppression. I bet you could pay them to carry, "Save the Whales!" or "Speak Mandarin!" banners, anything you wish, as long as you have enough money.
My point is still the same one: When you have one individual who has the financial resources to buy people the way The Establishment did, the most vulnerable people are going to get hurt. I don't see how this mess is going to benefit the Red Shirts who are putting themselves in the line of fire.
We have a saying here in Singapore: When the elephants fight, the grass get trampled.
Take care -- Andrew
I support the aspirations of the Red Shirts (I can read Thai and I'm a huge mor lum/ loog thung fan), but I can't -- not by any stretch of the imagination -- think of them as "freedom fighters" or fighters against oppression. I bet you could pay them to carry, "Save the Whales!" or "Speak Mandarin!" banners, anything you wish, as long as you have enough money.
My point is still the same one: When you have one individual who has the financial resources to buy people the way The Establishment did, the most vulnerable people are going to get hurt. I don't see how this mess is going to benefit the Red Shirts who are putting themselves in the line of fire.
We have a saying here in Singapore: When the elephants fight, the grass get trampled.
Take care -- Andrew
16/05/2010 @ 10:13
Comment from: Happy
Finally the fight begins ..... HAHA THAI KILL THAI ... So good to see... Continue...
Thinking how can the government be so shameful to remain in power when the people so against you.. What is the purpose of the government it is elected by the people.. So if you did a bad job just GO ! get the election.. so simple.. Why cling to power.. Just hope the Opposition next election will win and sent all Albisin and his follow to jail.. pay for their crimes
Thinking how can the government be so shameful to remain in power when the people so against you.. What is the purpose of the government it is elected by the people.. So if you did a bad job just GO ! get the election.. so simple.. Why cling to power.. Just hope the Opposition next election will win and sent all Albisin and his follow to jail.. pay for their crimes
16/05/2010 @ 11:18
Comment from: jeanette
Thank you so much for this site. A group of us have booked a trip to Thailand in August. We have been to Bangkok before and normally stay on the River (opposite Thaksin Bridge) but this time our friends wanted to stay the first four days in the Indra. My Aunt and Uncle have just returned early where they were staying at the Pathumwan Princess. I know things will probably change by August but could you please tell me if the Indra is in the trouble zone or is it far enough away from Central World? I appreciate your help.
16/05/2010 @ 11:35
Comment from: Paul
Thankyou Richard for your excellent work. I am living in Hua Hin and following the ongoings in Bangkok closely. But I did not have a perception of the local extent of the uprisings inside Bangkok. Your map is of a great help. Thank you for it. And please watch out for yourself! - Paul
17/05/2010 @ 08:24
Comment from: mikeize · http://thaicurrentevents.blogspot.com/
For people living outside of Thailand, let me ask you this: If you and the majority of your fellow citizens won 3 national elections in a row, each time only to have your governments tossed out, by extra-democratic methods... how would you feel? If you ask me, it is ADMIRABLE that so many thousands of Thais have long endured such hardships and danger, in a commitment to restore democracy. It is incomprehensible to me what Abhisit is willing to do in order to hold onto his illegitimate office. He has done serious damage to the country, by allowing the situation to fester, all the while ratcheting up the disgusting, hate-filled propaganda campaign against the red-shirts, which saturates every Thai media outlet but those which have been shut down for refusing such garbage. This will have terrible consequences for Thailand, well after the current situation, and his regime have passed into history.
17/05/2010 @ 09:19
Comment from: Andrew Penney
Red Shirt apologists love to paint Abhisit as The Devil. But I'd like somebody to be honest, step up to the plate, and tell everybody here who the Prime Minister was when the Tak Bai massacre happened, the same Prime Minister who put the deaths down to the men being "weak from fasting because it was the month of Ramadan."
Thailand can be ashamed of pushing Rohingyas back out to sea to die in leaking boats, but at least Abhisit had the education and the international street smarts to express regret and even shame.
After this mess, Thailand is probably going to need a leader with a great deal of "international street smarts" to restore confidence in the country.
I am only a foreigner, so my views aren't that important, anyway. But I have to say that my Thai friends are divided on the question of sympathy for the Red Shirts and the man who is funding them. None of them are "hi-so" Thais.
To me, I wonder what the Red Shirts' vision for their country is, their understanding of People Power. Maybe they want to be like the Philippines, where money politics is stronger than ever, and the entire country depends on remittances from Filipinos working overseas as maids, cooks, and junior managers. People Power hasn't put a dent in the power of the richest people in the Philippines, and I can only hope that the Thais will maybe be more... lucky?
AP
Thailand can be ashamed of pushing Rohingyas back out to sea to die in leaking boats, but at least Abhisit had the education and the international street smarts to express regret and even shame.
After this mess, Thailand is probably going to need a leader with a great deal of "international street smarts" to restore confidence in the country.
I am only a foreigner, so my views aren't that important, anyway. But I have to say that my Thai friends are divided on the question of sympathy for the Red Shirts and the man who is funding them. None of them are "hi-so" Thais.
To me, I wonder what the Red Shirts' vision for their country is, their understanding of People Power. Maybe they want to be like the Philippines, where money politics is stronger than ever, and the entire country depends on remittances from Filipinos working overseas as maids, cooks, and junior managers. People Power hasn't put a dent in the power of the richest people in the Philippines, and I can only hope that the Thais will maybe be more... lucky?
AP
17/05/2010 @ 10:37
Comment from: sehdaeng
Abhisit, u must be a government of the people, by the people and for the people...not Bangkokian elites only. Call election, and stop this madness. If only elites respect the rule of the game & the meaning of democracy....which I think escape their thick skulls. Viva la Thai revolution!!!
17/05/2010 @ 15:40
Comment from: MUD
http://blogs.reuters.com/global/2010/05/17/in-line-of-fire-at-bangkok-protests/
One of the more popular twitter sites is blogger Richard Barrow’s “Bangkok Dangerous” Google map, which highlights areas in Bangkok affected by the violence and is updated continuously with the latest on road blockages, mall closures and attack sites.
One of the more popular twitter sites is blogger Richard Barrow’s “Bangkok Dangerous” Google map, which highlights areas in Bangkok affected by the violence and is updated continuously with the latest on road blockages, mall closures and attack sites.
18/05/2010 @ 14:24
Comment from: MG
Richard,
You have given excellent information & map. I am supposed to reach bangkok on 23 may for pattaya.... is there any problem enroute to pattaya or pattaya.
Pls advise.
You have given excellent information & map. I am supposed to reach bangkok on 23 may for pattaya.... is there any problem enroute to pattaya or pattaya.
Pls advise.
18/05/2010 @ 19:43
Comment from: Andrew Penney
Hello thai. For your sake (and for the sake of Richard Barrow), don't you want to delete your own comment?
The reality is that your King is a constitutional monarch. How can you blame him for the current political problems, even though the reality is that he is possibly the greatest King that Thailand has ever known, by virtue of his integrity and his decades of hard work and his love for his subjects?
Please don't be angry for this foreigner for expressing the view that Thailand's political maturity has lagged behind the Kingdom's economic development.
In a constitutional monarchy, the people have to understand democracy or whatever principles govern their state. And take responsiblity for their own behaviour, whether it is taking money for votes, weapons or just their presence in a certain place (eg. airport in 2006, central Bangkok today).
You are blessed if you have a King who loves his subjects, is revered by them, and can help a politically immature country to rise above political conflict. But does that mean that you can demand that a constitutional monarch interfere in politics?
No disrespect, okay? I hope my words were okay. Please have a care for yourself, and for Richard Barrow the host of this wonderful blog.
Take care --
Andrew
The reality is that your King is a constitutional monarch. How can you blame him for the current political problems, even though the reality is that he is possibly the greatest King that Thailand has ever known, by virtue of his integrity and his decades of hard work and his love for his subjects?
Please don't be angry for this foreigner for expressing the view that Thailand's political maturity has lagged behind the Kingdom's economic development.
In a constitutional monarchy, the people have to understand democracy or whatever principles govern their state. And take responsiblity for their own behaviour, whether it is taking money for votes, weapons or just their presence in a certain place (eg. airport in 2006, central Bangkok today).
You are blessed if you have a King who loves his subjects, is revered by them, and can help a politically immature country to rise above political conflict. But does that mean that you can demand that a constitutional monarch interfere in politics?
No disrespect, okay? I hope my words were okay. Please have a care for yourself, and for Richard Barrow the host of this wonderful blog.
Take care --
Andrew
19/05/2010 @ 03:58
Comment from: Andrew Penney
P/s: thai, if you already know in your heart what you would like your King to say publicly, then you already know, and you have the responsibility to act on it.
The same applies to every Thai who is just waiting for him to say something. As a King he has made it clear over the years how Thais should love each other. "But nobody told me" is not an excuse for anybody.
Good luck, okay? My heart is with you in this very difficult time, may you and everybody you love be safe and well.
Andrew
The same applies to every Thai who is just waiting for him to say something. As a King he has made it clear over the years how Thais should love each other. "But nobody told me" is not an excuse for anybody.
Good luck, okay? My heart is with you in this very difficult time, may you and everybody you love be safe and well.
Andrew
19/05/2010 @ 13:06
Comment from: Lee
Rural Thais please be peaceful.
Do not believe leaders who incite
you to riot.
Two wrongs do not make a right.
Believe in a peaceful process.
The world will support you if a
peaceful process is sort.
19/05/2010 @ 22:37
Comment from: Han
Abhisit is such a dirty man. He is no better than Thaksin. Off you go dog of the military and PAD. PM who is a killer, hands stained with blood.
I can't believe he is using some method to solve the political crisis. He is not fit to be Thailand's PM.
I can't believe he is using some method to solve the political crisis. He is not fit to be Thailand's PM.
19/05/2010 @ 23:18
Comment from: han
Lee, "rural thai please be peaceful" lol how do you expect them to be peaceful when the Bangkok elites are pushing them around and treating them like second class citizens?
Please tell abhisit and the military to be peaceful. Abhisit is a killer. He is no better than Thaksin is.
Please tell abhisit and the military to be peaceful. Abhisit is a killer. He is no better than Thaksin is.
19/05/2010 @ 23:20
Comment from: Han
Oh Andrew, so all along the Bangkok elites and elistist poltical party such as the Democrats were right in pushing the rural class around and treating them like second class citizens?
Why are you blaming only Thaksin and the red shirt for Thailand's current woes? The Democrats were around for so long and as far as history has shown most of their rule ended with a coup or they were overthrown before their term was up. The democrats should have long been gone and the recent crackdown sanctioned by Abhisit is further proof of this. Abhisit is nothing but a puppet(he refuse to accept this) and is a killer.
Just like Thaksin, all Abhisit wants to is to hold on to power and preserve his ego. Thailand is better without both Thaksin AND Abhisit. Just like the TRT and PPP had gone, it is high time the democrats goes.
Why are you blaming only Thaksin and the red shirt for Thailand's current woes? The Democrats were around for so long and as far as history has shown most of their rule ended with a coup or they were overthrown before their term was up. The democrats should have long been gone and the recent crackdown sanctioned by Abhisit is further proof of this. Abhisit is nothing but a puppet(he refuse to accept this) and is a killer.
Just like Thaksin, all Abhisit wants to is to hold on to power and preserve his ego. Thailand is better without both Thaksin AND Abhisit. Just like the TRT and PPP had gone, it is high time the democrats goes.
19/05/2010 @ 23:28
Comment from: John Kelantan
Taksin is like Tamil Tiger Leader sending innocent peasants women,children to their death for his own selfish political ends. Ever since he became Thai PM there is no end to violence. He is responsible for the death of innocent Muslims in the South, killed gangsters without trial and now misleading the Northern poor to their graves.
19/05/2010 @ 23:33
Comment from: Han
It is so obvious that Andrew has something against the Red and Thaksin. Are you paid by the democrats then? So you are very educated and the Bangkokians are so too? Stop treating the northerners and north-easterners like idiots. Think they vote for Thaksin just because they are given money? Are you so foolish to think that this is the only reason why the violent has reached this stage? *shakes head*(just like you did. for your folly)
19/05/2010 @ 23:40
Comment from: Han
John Kelantan so what does this makes Abhisit? Everything about Thaksin is wrong while everything about the democrats and Abhisit is correct?
"Ever since Thaksin became Thai PM there was no peace"? And was Abhisit able to do any better? No! He is just as dirty as Thaksin is
"Ever since Thaksin became Thai PM there was no peace"? And was Abhisit able to do any better? No! He is just as dirty as Thaksin is
19/05/2010 @ 23:48
Comment from: Han
Andrew, after analysing your sentences and choice of words I really question your intention of sowing hatred against the Red and Thaksin and refusing to do the same for PAD/Abhisit/Democrats or the military. I wonder why you are so one sided and what evil intentions you have.
19/05/2010 @ 23:54
Comment from: lee
Rural people all over Asia are suffering because tilling the land does not pay.They love the land and the crops but it does not pay.
It cannot be solved by riots alone.The Rurals in Thailand are such loyal people.Any monarch would love to have them.
Thai is a Buddhist nation.Violence does not work in Thailand-it only begets more violence. Engaged a neutral party to broker the talks.Politics is only a hindrance to the talks presently.Discuss rural development strategies and World Bank assistance.
Thailand agricultural products are the best in the world but the farmers barely make it.
20/05/2010 @ 04:15
Comment from: Brian
Whatever you do, don't update your blogs.god forbid if we have some news that was even remotely current.
20/05/2010 @ 05:16
Comment from: Andrew Penney
@Han: Normally, I would not respond to comments like those you made, but you do seem pretty jai rorn, so I think I had better say clearly that I am not being paid by anybody, in case you take my silence as a guilty "yes". Take care -- Andrew
20/05/2010 @ 09:37
Comment from: King P Thai · http://www.fifthinternational.org/
Freedom is another word for nothing have to loose Janis Joplin this song shows that a heart can't fail if your passion and will is strong. The people here in germany are with you - freedom & justice for the people.
http://www.fifthinternational.org/
http://www.tagesschau.de/ausland/thailand992.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/asia_pacific/10129711.stm
http://www.cnn.com/WORLD/
http://www.fifthinternational.org/
http://www.tagesschau.de/ausland/thailand992.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/asia_pacific/10129711.stm
http://www.cnn.com/WORLD/
20/05/2010 @ 15:54
Comment from: food for thought
Lots of self opinionated wanna be heroes tweeting pats on the back to each other and over the top dramatic messages - forgetting all along that this is not their country -a few smart and practical tweets in between but not many and one should remind the likes of Florian that only fools get shot in such situations and what happened makes you like another glory seeking young fool which is how your blogs read – Too many false heroes (CNN has a lot to answer for) and now they are all “experts “ in conflict – leave it with the Thais please – its their problem and let them resolve it – Also noticed amongst the regular tweeters as how many of them turned on the Reds once things got a bit more violent and many became army lovers overnight (Mr. Aviator (did he paint his face blue before he went a wandering ?) included – seen too many movies that naïve lad… – always remember – an unelected PM ordered the people of his nation to be murdered……..nuff said – however to Richard Barrow = excellent
20/05/2010 @ 20:42
Comment from: Andrew Penney
@foodforthought: Why don't you start by comparing the murderous death toll of Thai civilians (I'm leaving foreigners out of the numbers) over DAYS of running gun battles in the streets, and the number of Thais killed in a single day at Tak Bai, on Thaksin's watch? And was he sorry at all?
I may be a foreigner but I have the right to observe -- politely, without becoming jai rorn -- that Thailand is a politically immature country (cf. economic growth).
I abhor false heroes. What I see is a very wonderful country being forced to come to terms with the fact that they do not have a culture which can handle conflict resolution. Not yet. I get on well with my Thai friends because I know how to avoid confrontation. If the shit hit the fan, and it became impossible to avoid conflict (basically by pretending that it doesn't exist), I do not know how it would unfurl.
A lot of black and white thinking. Abhisit is a murderer... well, no skin off my nose because I'm not a fan of his, and I'm not even Thai.
Well, how about the fact that the Red Shirts were always completely happy with a Southern policy which sent foreigners -- and Southern Thais -- the message that the life of a Thai who is a Muslim is not important? True, we are talking about a heavily armed insurgency in the South, but did any of the Red Shirts care when their then leader Thaksin set the tone for that kind of behaviour by the Thai army? They loved it!
Is a Thai any less a Thai because he is a dirty dark-skinned Muslim, rather than a child of Esarn? Not all Muslims living in the South support the insurgency, support violence, or want to seccede from the Kingdom. Yet they have suffered terribly too, as much as the Buddhists living in the Southern Provinces. I doubt if Red Shirts, who are yearning to be heard and given face, care to make the difference between a peaceful Thai Muslim and a terrorist. All are kaffirs to them, anyway... and that is sad.
And the sad thing is that the most vulnerable ones are -- as always -- becoming the cannon fodder.
As a foreigner, the impression I get is that Thai society is still a very "me first!" society. Whether people are hi-so Thais backing Abhisit, or Red Shirts. I agree with you that this is something which only the Thais can resolve.
Right now Thais are still at the stage where they are blaming anything, and everybody. Some are attacking their own King for remaining silent. He's been your King for 60+ years and you don't have a clue, morally, what he would say? You are waiting for the UN to step in? Why, so that you don't have to take any responsibility for appointing good negotiators?
AP
I may be a foreigner but I have the right to observe -- politely, without becoming jai rorn -- that Thailand is a politically immature country (cf. economic growth).
I abhor false heroes. What I see is a very wonderful country being forced to come to terms with the fact that they do not have a culture which can handle conflict resolution. Not yet. I get on well with my Thai friends because I know how to avoid confrontation. If the shit hit the fan, and it became impossible to avoid conflict (basically by pretending that it doesn't exist), I do not know how it would unfurl.
A lot of black and white thinking. Abhisit is a murderer... well, no skin off my nose because I'm not a fan of his, and I'm not even Thai.
Well, how about the fact that the Red Shirts were always completely happy with a Southern policy which sent foreigners -- and Southern Thais -- the message that the life of a Thai who is a Muslim is not important? True, we are talking about a heavily armed insurgency in the South, but did any of the Red Shirts care when their then leader Thaksin set the tone for that kind of behaviour by the Thai army? They loved it!
Is a Thai any less a Thai because he is a dirty dark-skinned Muslim, rather than a child of Esarn? Not all Muslims living in the South support the insurgency, support violence, or want to seccede from the Kingdom. Yet they have suffered terribly too, as much as the Buddhists living in the Southern Provinces. I doubt if Red Shirts, who are yearning to be heard and given face, care to make the difference between a peaceful Thai Muslim and a terrorist. All are kaffirs to them, anyway... and that is sad.
And the sad thing is that the most vulnerable ones are -- as always -- becoming the cannon fodder.
As a foreigner, the impression I get is that Thai society is still a very "me first!" society. Whether people are hi-so Thais backing Abhisit, or Red Shirts. I agree with you that this is something which only the Thais can resolve.
Right now Thais are still at the stage where they are blaming anything, and everybody. Some are attacking their own King for remaining silent. He's been your King for 60+ years and you don't have a clue, morally, what he would say? You are waiting for the UN to step in? Why, so that you don't have to take any responsibility for appointing good negotiators?
AP
21/05/2010 @ 01:06
Comment from: Khun Don
During the time things were really bad in Bangkok, the map passed the million hit mark.
21/05/2010 @ 03:56
Comment from: Han
You are beating around the bush Andrew. First of all, scroll up and recall that YOU were the one who demonised Thaksin and the red shirt, putting all the blame on them and casting them in the badlight. My point is to say that at this stage, no one can blame to be right. Not Thaksin, not Abhisit, certainly not the red or yellow shirts, not the Democrats and neither is the PT right.
No where did I say that the red shirts were right. The problem can only come to an end when the Bangkok elites cease seeing themselves as being greater and more capable than the rest of the country. Dirty money politics for selfish self-advancement have also got to stop.
Stop assuming that you are right. Our Majesty the King has never claimed that he is always correct. More so, common people like you and me should not claim that we are right and try to overwrite other people's opinion. Most of all our great teacher, the Lord Buddha has always told us to question. The conflict will never cease to exist if people continue seeing themselves as telling the truth and pointing the blame at others instead of themselves.
The conflict will only stop if people stop blaming others and pointing fault at others. Thais need to see themselves as following the teachings of Buddha (for the rest, their gods), subjects of HM the King and lastly as Thai citizens of the nation.
I would appreciate if you stop pin-pointing fingers at others. Thank you khrup
No where did I say that the red shirts were right. The problem can only come to an end when the Bangkok elites cease seeing themselves as being greater and more capable than the rest of the country. Dirty money politics for selfish self-advancement have also got to stop.
Stop assuming that you are right. Our Majesty the King has never claimed that he is always correct. More so, common people like you and me should not claim that we are right and try to overwrite other people's opinion. Most of all our great teacher, the Lord Buddha has always told us to question. The conflict will never cease to exist if people continue seeing themselves as telling the truth and pointing the blame at others instead of themselves.
The conflict will only stop if people stop blaming others and pointing fault at others. Thais need to see themselves as following the teachings of Buddha (for the rest, their gods), subjects of HM the King and lastly as Thai citizens of the nation.
I would appreciate if you stop pin-pointing fingers at others. Thank you khrup
21/05/2010 @ 13:53
Comment from: Andrew Penney
Okay, han, I hear you. F
I was under the mistaken impression that you were a die-hard Red Shirts supporter. You don't think I support Abhisit, do you? Whether it is Thaksin or Abhisit, it is all money politics.
Now I have to examine my own words, and my own conscience, and *think* again.
I think that every Thai is very deeply shocked and traumatized by what has happened because money politics became too powerful even for Thai society to handle.
I apologize -- sincerely -- for upsetting you. I hope you will scroll up too and see that I support the aspirations of the Red Shirts, as much as a foreigner can do, it's just that I hate hypocrisy and money politics. I cannot understand how people can Abhisit a murderer and conveniently ignore the record of Thaksin, who becomes their hero.
Every man who died at Tak Bai was somebody's son, maybe somebody's brother or husband or father. I wish Thai people could stop blaming others -- like you say, han -- and look at their own behaviour.
This is probably my Singaporean nature talking, but once people take money -- and those were some pretty expensive shells that Khun Ying Pornthip was examining in the temple! --, I am afraid that they cast doubt on their own integrity. I don't think you will disagree with me that no person in their right mind would take that kind of ammunition into a Buddhist, where women and children are sheltering!
You are not my enemy, I hope you know that. I feel guilty that you were offended by me, let's find a way to not be enemies. I love Thailand even though it is not my country, and it makes my heart very sad that Thais are killing Thais. How many times did I type out the saying that "When the elephants fight, the grass gets trampled"?
Take care --
Andrew
I was under the mistaken impression that you were a die-hard Red Shirts supporter. You don't think I support Abhisit, do you? Whether it is Thaksin or Abhisit, it is all money politics.
Now I have to examine my own words, and my own conscience, and *think* again.
I think that every Thai is very deeply shocked and traumatized by what has happened because money politics became too powerful even for Thai society to handle.
I apologize -- sincerely -- for upsetting you. I hope you will scroll up too and see that I support the aspirations of the Red Shirts, as much as a foreigner can do, it's just that I hate hypocrisy and money politics. I cannot understand how people can Abhisit a murderer and conveniently ignore the record of Thaksin, who becomes their hero.
Every man who died at Tak Bai was somebody's son, maybe somebody's brother or husband or father. I wish Thai people could stop blaming others -- like you say, han -- and look at their own behaviour.
This is probably my Singaporean nature talking, but once people take money -- and those were some pretty expensive shells that Khun Ying Pornthip was examining in the temple! --, I am afraid that they cast doubt on their own integrity. I don't think you will disagree with me that no person in their right mind would take that kind of ammunition into a Buddhist, where women and children are sheltering!
You are not my enemy, I hope you know that. I feel guilty that you were offended by me, let's find a way to not be enemies. I love Thailand even though it is not my country, and it makes my heart very sad that Thais are killing Thais. How many times did I type out the saying that "When the elephants fight, the grass gets trampled"?
Take care --
Andrew
21/05/2010 @ 14:33
Comment from: Andrew Penney
Okay, han, I hear you. Finally.
I was under the mistaken impression that you were a die-hard Red Shirts supporter. You don't think I support Abhisit, do you? Whether it is Thaksin or Abhisit, it is all money politics.
Now I have to examine my own words, and my own conscience, and *think* again.
I think that every Thai is very deeply shocked and traumatized by what has happened because money politics became too powerful even for Thai society to handle.
I apologize -- sincerely -- for upsetting you. I hope you will scroll up too and see that I support the aspirations of the Red Shirts, as much as a foreigner can do, it's just that I hate hypocrisy and money politics. I cannot understand how people can call Abhisit a murderer and conveniently ignore the record of Thaksin, who becomes their hero.
Every man who died at Tak Bai was somebody's son, maybe somebody's brother or husband or father. I wish Thai people could stop blaming others -- like you say, han -- and look at their own behaviour.
This is probably my Singaporean nature talking, but once people take money -- and those were some pretty expensive shells that Khun Ying Pornthip was examining in the temple! --, I am afraid that they cast doubt on their own integrity. I don't think you will disagree with me that no person in their right mind would take that kind of ammunition into a Buddhist temple, where women and children are sheltering!
You are not my enemy, I hope you know that. I feel guilty that you were offended by me, let's find a way to not be enemies. I love Thailand even though it is not my country, and it makes my heart very sad that Thais are killing Thais. How many times did I type out the saying that "When the elephants fight, the grass gets trampled"?
Take care --
Andrew
I was under the mistaken impression that you were a die-hard Red Shirts supporter. You don't think I support Abhisit, do you? Whether it is Thaksin or Abhisit, it is all money politics.
Now I have to examine my own words, and my own conscience, and *think* again.
I think that every Thai is very deeply shocked and traumatized by what has happened because money politics became too powerful even for Thai society to handle.
I apologize -- sincerely -- for upsetting you. I hope you will scroll up too and see that I support the aspirations of the Red Shirts, as much as a foreigner can do, it's just that I hate hypocrisy and money politics. I cannot understand how people can call Abhisit a murderer and conveniently ignore the record of Thaksin, who becomes their hero.
Every man who died at Tak Bai was somebody's son, maybe somebody's brother or husband or father. I wish Thai people could stop blaming others -- like you say, han -- and look at their own behaviour.
This is probably my Singaporean nature talking, but once people take money -- and those were some pretty expensive shells that Khun Ying Pornthip was examining in the temple! --, I am afraid that they cast doubt on their own integrity. I don't think you will disagree with me that no person in their right mind would take that kind of ammunition into a Buddhist temple, where women and children are sheltering!
You are not my enemy, I hope you know that. I feel guilty that you were offended by me, let's find a way to not be enemies. I love Thailand even though it is not my country, and it makes my heart very sad that Thais are killing Thais. How many times did I type out the saying that "When the elephants fight, the grass gets trampled"?
Take care --
Andrew
21/05/2010 @ 14:54
Comment from: Khun Don
The map is now reported to have passed the 2 million hits mark.
22/05/2010 @ 20:47
Comment from: math games · http://www.math-games.us/
I hope peace come to Thailand very soon. Where is our land of smile? ....
23/05/2010 @ 10:19
Comment from: Kirk
I was curious of your absence, I hope the comments people posted on this site about the Thai politics didn't get you in hot water with the Thai authority. To all guesses, please keep your opinions about The Thai politics to yourselves and go on other sites to epress and challenge the debate of yours thoughts. Unless you are Thai and have to live your lives under the Thai laws of the land, you have no clue what it likes to walk in these people's shoes. Richard, I hope you will return to Paknam Web and post interesting events and more beautiful pictures of Thailand soon. I've been following you on Twitter also. Have a great summer!
Take care,
Kirk
Take care,
Kirk
29/05/2010 @ 23:13
Comment from: Brian
How about an updated map of "update your blogs Richard". think you can handle that ?
31/05/2010 @ 04:36
Comment from: Line - PARIS ACCOMMODATION · http://www.apartrental.com/
i like Thai Land , it is one of the best place for shopping and relax. We have been there in that period . Yes , it was not comfortable like usually , we had to take care more when we went out of hotel. but it was no matter , we will happy to come back there on next holiday.
Today i look for the new. The problem is better i hope it will be over soon. Because no war in this planet is good, that is the worst thing.
Keep this planet in peace that mean you keep your life is blue color.....
Today i look for the new. The problem is better i hope it will be over soon. Because no war in this planet is good, that is the worst thing.
Keep this planet in peace that mean you keep your life is blue color.....
10/06/2010 @ 20:55
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