Prachatai has two short stories about the self-proclaimed protectors and promoters of the monarchy. Both critical for the current regime and government, Army chief Prayuth Chan-ocha and defacto boss of coalition partner Phum Jai Thai Party Newin Chidchob are on the hustings for the monarchy again.
In the first story, Army boss Prayuth has been quoted at the Manager saying some odd things at the launch of yet another “opportunity” for Thais to “demonstrate loyalty” to the throne. He is quoted as saying (and it seems an accurate translation of the original):
Their Majesties and the royal family do everything for the good of the country.
Normal and standard statement, probably responding to the Chulabhorn interview.
The monarchy has been with the Thai people for more than 100 years.
True enough, sort of, but the usual statement would be 700 years or 200 years for this dynasty. So why 100 years?
All of us must therefore protect the monarchy, because the institution has secured peace in the country.
Again, the standard mantra.
All of us must be loyal to all members of the royal family, because they do everything for the people.
Note the emphasis on all. Preparing for succession?
The royal duties cover three areas: national security, improving the quality of life and tackling poverty, and protecting natural resources and the environment.
Interesting take on royal activities.Again, perhaps responding to Chulabhorn’s claim that the new generation knows too little about the royals.
This event will be a good opportunity for all of us to pay homage to HM the King and all members of the royal family, wish them long life, and do good for the country which is currently somewhat plagued with problems. But the problems are considered petty, and I think that they can be solved. I think that 60 million Thais will never allow anyone to offend the monarchy or attack the country. I’d like to invite the people to do good and protect the monarchy. Everybody has the monarchy and loyalty in his heart, and the institution has been with us since we were born. We have to make our children understand that the royal family has contributed immensely to the country. Without their past contributions, we would not be here today,’ Gen Prayuth said.
The view that there has not been sufficient propaganda about the royals seems to be believed. Why only 60 million Thais?
Gen Prayuth told reporters that television channels, including Channels 5 and 7, and radio stations under the army’s control were responding to the wish of Princess Chulabhorn to see broadcasts covering royal duties for 10 minutes each day.
Of course!
In the second story, Newin takes up the loyalty challenge and with his party is setting off around the country to dish out photos of the king. There are 1.5 million being given away. Don’t all Thai households already have them? That’s the usual propaganda.
In any case, Newin has emphasized his party’s “My Family Loves the King” project. This is meant “to help the Thais who cannot themselves come to pay homage to the King at Siriraj Hospital for various reasons. So the party is bringing the photos along with books for them to sign, and will return the books to the Bureau of the Royal Household to honour the King.”
PPT expects more than 60 million signatures….
Reporters asked Newin “whether this was exploiting the monarchy to gain votes…”. Newin replied that such criticism was poorly placed. He added: “Those who criticize should also act, and should ask themselves whether they have ever done anything to show their loyalty…”.
No politics there! Loyalty is the key for Newin and the royalist regime.
Political Prisoners in Thailand 