October 21st, 2006, 05:15
Thailand News
A Peaceful Military Coup in Thailand
On Tuesday September 19, the world watched in amazement as Thailand's 18th military coup since 1932 took place. The coup's leaders cited endemic political corruption in Thai politics to justify the removal of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who refused to stand down after a series of scandals. So far, there has been no significant violence nor any widespread protests. This may be attributed to His Majesty King Bhumipol Adulyadej's tacit support of the endeavor.
With Thaskin in exile, a new draft constitution has been drawn up. The reported objective is to improve structural checks and balances and to curtail political corruption. Former military general Surayud Chulanont was announced as Prime Minister on October 1. Democratic elections are promised within a year.
In the Land of Smiles, it's business (and pleasure) as usual. Visitors to Pattaya will find bars along 'Walking Street' packed with revelers. The Phuket Post reports demand for property on the island resort continues to increase. Clearly, people have not been put off making a trip to Phuket. In central Bangkok, the beat goes on. In front of the Government Building, street vendors enthusiastically sell coup memorabilia while a picture taken with soldiers is now a popular souvenir.
Precision reservation Newsletter
A Peaceful Military Coup in Thailand
On Tuesday September 19, the world watched in amazement as Thailand's 18th military coup since 1932 took place. The coup's leaders cited endemic political corruption in Thai politics to justify the removal of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who refused to stand down after a series of scandals. So far, there has been no significant violence nor any widespread protests. This may be attributed to His Majesty King Bhumipol Adulyadej's tacit support of the endeavor.
With Thaskin in exile, a new draft constitution has been drawn up. The reported objective is to improve structural checks and balances and to curtail political corruption. Former military general Surayud Chulanont was announced as Prime Minister on October 1. Democratic elections are promised within a year.
In the Land of Smiles, it's business (and pleasure) as usual. Visitors to Pattaya will find bars along 'Walking Street' packed with revelers. The Phuket Post reports demand for property on the island resort continues to increase. Clearly, people have not been put off making a trip to Phuket. In central Bangkok, the beat goes on. In front of the Government Building, street vendors enthusiastically sell coup memorabilia while a picture taken with soldiers is now a popular souvenir.
Precision reservation Newsletter