Democrats did nothing

I was pleased to read the commentary ''Not the time to play the blame game'' (BP, Nov 16). Mr Pandey writes very fairly about people blaming the new government for its handling of the flood. 

To me, the Democrat government also bears responsibility, insofar as it was told of Bangkok's inability to cope with major flooding. This happened in February after a team from the Netherlands Water Partnership surveyed Bangkok's flood defenses.

LILY

Yingluck, resign now!

Re: ''Amnesty decree passes cabinet'' (BP, Nov 16). This is the most outrageous public washing of hands since Pontius Pilate, and represents a total abrogation of her responsibilities as the supposed prime minister.

We all know, of course, that Ms Yingluck is not really the prime minister; but with this latest facile manoeuvrings so as not to be seen to be flavoring her fugitive brother, she has surrendered the last vestiges of being taken seriously.

She should resign or be replaced immediately.

DAVID BROWN

Rayong

Let's try him again

Re: ''Amnesty decree passes cabinet'' (BP, Nov 16). I have no problem with Thaksin returning if done above board and if justice is seen to be done, and thus being in full accord with democracy.

But PM Yingluck's method doesn't meet either criterion. The proposed amnesty decree seems tailor-made to fit you-know-who, including age, length of sentence, and omission of any requirement that the convicted person serve any part of his sentence.

If, as the Pheu Thai claims, Thaksin's conviction was political, by a biased court, then the existing judicial system provides for a means to remedy the situation, such that justice will be seen to be done.

For example, using judges seen to be impartial, re-try the defendant in open court. Then, all sides can see that justice has been served, and be reconciled to whatever verdict results.

BURIN KANTABUTRA

A near-criminal act

Re: ''Amnesty decree.'' Not all the people of Thailand have been able to enjoy the benefits of a higher education that affords one a broadened worldview. There does not currently exist among the populace a general understanding of the history of democracy.

It is essential that every means be used to enable all citizens to understand and, more importantly, those in power to be reminded, that a democracy cannot survive without the rule of law. 

And corruption cannot be reduced or eliminated if laws are circumvented to benefit the powerful or the wealthy. A man who is guilty does not flee to avoid conviction and punishment. 

It is fundamentally wrong for a government to use its power to circumvent conviction of crimes by creating an amnesty for the guilty, especially when the crime benefits the wealthy, the powerful or the connected.

If the Thai people want a better life for all their citizens, they must cry out with all their energy to reject the near-criminal attempt to circumvent the rule of law by granting amnesty to Thaksin, regardless of the fact that some consider him to be ''one of their own''.

There is no excuse that can justify using political power to manipulate laws to enrich connected people, to excuse criminal behaviour, or create special circumstances for favourite sons.

ROBERT EDWARDS

New York City

Visa salt in flood wound

My home and office in Rangsit have been inundated for quite some time. My visa expires this Friday. On learning of my inability to provide the required documents, one officer said I should leave the country. I asked him where to, as my house is here. He just laughed. Is this the kind of help the Immigration Dept gives a flood victim?

LAURENT

Save the jester

Re: ''Save a puppy'' (Postbag, Nov 16). There is a mangy puppy with no hind legs dragging itself around the soi I live on. Richard Harvey is welcome to put it out of its misery.

But as far as requiring BP to keep Thirasant Mann off its pages, I draw the line. We all know Thai politics is a joke, and it is indeed refreshing to see someone who can put it into perspective as Khun Thirasant does.

CHARLIE BROWN