Anand unfairly treated in muddled diatribe

I think Lek Chaiyakhon’s unceremonious diatribe against former prime minister Anand Panyarachun was both unclear and unfair.

First, Khun Lek defines the 1997 constitution as the “most democratic in Thailand’s history”, yet he harbours suspicions over the contribution made to it by Anand – despite the fact that it was Anand who oversaw the drafting process. Lek thus reveals himself to be an unreliable commentator on history.

Second, it is simplistic to blame Anand for “playing down” the Black May massacre of 1992, which occurred during his tenure as prime minister. In fact, Anand was chosen as prime minister because he was considered the most suitable person available to bring an end to the political turmoil. In international circles he had a good reputation as a diplomat.

Third, autonomy in the deep South is not a matter that any Thai leader can afford to take lightly or make a decision on at will. Laws governing the whole country must be taken into account. 

Vint Chavala