On Sept 19, 2006, the Thai military along with others led a coup that toppled the democratically elected government of Thaksin Shinawatra. As one commentator writes, "one must understand that he is widely considered the most popular Prime Minister in Thailand’s political history. His Thai Rak Thai party (TRT) came to power in 2001. It was the first time in Thailand’s history that one political party won more than 50% of the house, enabling it to set up a majority government. This party won the election partly because of its aggressive election campaign which focused on issues such as low cost universal health care and low cost loan. These issues were and are of great importance to the rural citizens of Thailand which overwhelmingly voted for the Thai Rak Thai party."
This coup set in motion many of the events that are occurring today, including the bloody May protests in Thailand. The coup was remembered today in Thailand, but only in provinces that are no longer under the emergency decree (meaning no more than 5 people can congregate together). Khon Kaen, as one of those still under emergency rule, did not have much happening.
The only thing I noticed was an increased police presence. They drove around on their motorsais, checked out bars, and just generally stood around. In other parts of Thailand, the day was used as a way to remember those lost during the May protest.
Red Shirts turned out in Chiang Mai and Bangkok to lay wreaths in honor of the dead. I stole the following image from a great blog, New Mandala, of Red Shirts peacefully out in Bangkok.
Regardless of what did or didn't happen today, it is clear that the original conflict points have not been addressed, and are not currently being addressed by the government. It will be interesting to see what happens in the year to come.
Otherwise, all is well here in Khon Kaen. The students leave for their Unit 1 trip to Yasothorn tomorrow, along with Allison and Alvin. Sam, Lukas, and I will stay here in Khon Kaen. I might even get a full day of vacation!! I'm not even sure what to do with such a thing..... :)
