MATCH DAY Democracy Versus Kleptocracy

Posted: 28 Feb 2010 | 6:00 am

While Thaksin Shinawatra broods in his karma infused Exile on Shame Street I can't help but harken back to those not so distant memories of his Camelotian-like kleptocracy. Though surely Khun Potjaman is no Jackie O and the antics of those guys wearing red shirts look to stir up more trouble than the running of the bulls in Pamplona on March 14th.

As the nation waited, yes waited and still waited in the depths of Friday night for the Supreme Court's decision, unfortunately the conclusion came to be that Thailand's battle for self identity, good versus perhaps good for just a few ended in a 1-1 draw. No sudden death, no penalty shootout, and no clear winner. While we all love an outcome, the fact remains that the road to self determination is a long hard struggle and ultimately a journey with no end.

Kleptocracies are a strange brew, described most often as a 'rule by thieves', often used to define government corruption on an epic scale. What was clear during Friday's proceedings were that the rule of law, the acknowledgment of a system failed and courage of Thai men and women of try to improve their country was at play.

This in itself was a remarkable victory and perhaps far more than anything bodes well for the challenges in the troubled days ahead. Despite being a foreigner in a country I've lived in for nearly 10 years, it was a day to be proud of Thailand and one which warmed my heart.

The Tribe has spoken Mr. Thaksin.

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