Criticises Thaksin government, but insists he is still being impartial

General News - Thursday December 20, 2007

RACE TO PARLIAMENT

MONK PREACHES DEMOCRACY

Criticises Thaksin government, but insists he is still being impartial

Story by ANUCHA CHAROENPO

Buddhist monks not only dedicate themselves to religious activities, but also to various aspects of community development and education.

In the run-up to the general election, monks such as Pra Khru Prachote Dhammapirom, widely known as Phra Acharn Sai, have been educating people about the principles of democracy, and encouraging them to vote.

Having worked as a community development monk in the eastern region for years, Phra Acharn Sai, the abbot of Wat Wangsila Dhammaram in Glang district in Rayong, was invited by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation and the Social Development and Human Security Ministry to promote democratic participation.

The monk has travelled to many people's forums supported by the two agencies in Rayong and nearby provinces.

These forums have been held across the eastern region since shortly after the Sept 19 coup last year.

''I think it is my responsibility to do good deeds for the country as a Thai citizen. I have never said anything where I take sides with any particular political party or candidate,'' said Phra Acharn Sai, 65.

''All of my teachings are about encouraging the people to exercise their rights in a democracy and to choose good politicians who have the morality and honesty to rule the country properly.'' Phra Acharn Sai cited the previous government headed by Thaksin Shinawatra as an example of a failed administration without any morality.

The 2006 sale of the Shinawatra family's share of Shin Corp to Singapore's Temasek Holdings was the most obvious example. It caused great controversy and much dissatisfaction among taxpayers.

The Thaksin government's promotion of people's participation in the political system was doubtful, he said. And the government seemed to unfairly treat those who criticised it.

''I don't want to see such a government rule the country after this general election. I hope the next government will have a leader who is sincere, has no hidden agenda and the morality needed to help solve people's problems,'' he said.

The monk said he did not feel uncomfortable talking about the Thaksin government because his criticism was based on facts, and other people in the country felt the same way. He maintained he was not taking sides.

Sutthi Atchasai, coordinator of the Rayong-based Eastern Community Network, said Phra Acharn Sai had been working with conservationists for years to help protect the environment in the Eastern Seaboard and had often attended protests by the people against environmental pollution.

''People recognise Phra Acharn Sai because he stands by their side all the time,'' said Mr Sutthi.

Bangkok Post