He Can't Remember Their Names

The Nation

On the surface, the Democrat Party is still an old, traditional political party that respects the system and is always unified. However, in the corners of the Parliament and at the party's offices, MPs have been whispering about what's really going on.


Apparently party members are not pleased that Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva only pays attention to what Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban, party secretary-general and the "government manager", has to say.


In fact, Chuan and other veteran Democrats, including former party leader Banyat Bantadtan, don't always agree with Suthep, especially on issues concerning negotiations with coalition parties.

However, Chuan seems to be biting his tongue because he doesn't want to make Abhisit look bad.
While the former PM was seen as Abhisit's role model, many MPs have been comparing the two and seeing lots of difference in their personalities.


Chuan has always been friendly, soft and humble. He is known to stop and talk to villagers waiting to greet him. On the other hand, Abhisit can't even remember the names of his party's MPs.

In fact, he has infuriated some by walking away before a discussion is even completed.


Abhisit actually is often compared with former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, while Chuan, whose three-term party leadership ended in 2003, still commands respect. Even though Chuan is just a chief adviser to the Democrats, reporters still turn to him for comments on several issues.


Honestly, it sounds like a typical political party. You have the figurehead, the managers, the enforcers, the good cops and bad cops.

The underlings take the hits for their master, Abhisit.

You have to wonder why this story is in print.