Daily News Editorial
The Surayud government has done the right thing by extending the term of the Assets Scrutiny Committee (ASC). This is proof of the government's determination to get to the bottom of alleged corruption in the previous administration. The ASC has worked very hard since it was set up in the wake of the Sept 19, 2006 coup that removed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra from power.
Its task is crucial because the alleged corruption was one of the four reasons cited by the military to topple Mr Thaksin. Members of the public, therefore, have been keeping a close watch on the ASC's work.
Prior to the government's decision, members of the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) had pushed for an extension of the ASC's term, which was originally set to end on Sept 30 this year.
The ASC will now stay on until the government's term ends. This will give the ASC more time to conclude its investigations and send all cases to the public prosecutor.
The cases against the previous administration are complex. Without strong evidence, these cases would be rejected by the prosecutor.
With more time, the ASC can build up a strong case against alleged wrongdoers. So far, the committee has wrapped up its investigation into the Barn Ua Arthon housing project for the poor, and alleged tax evasion in connection with the Shin Corp sale.
If the alleged wrongdoers are prosecuted, it will send a strong signal to corrupt politicians. It will serve as a deterrent for those who may want to engage in corruption. This will benefit Thai politics in the long run.
I wonder why nobody ever brings up the fact that the ASC was ruled illegal by the Supreme Court after the last coup
Also, I can't help but notice that the "usual suspects" who were at the roots of the '91 coup and many of the corruption problems pre-97 crisis are coming out of the woodwork for another shot.
Banharn
Chavalit
Snoh
Sanan
Plus, all of Thaksin's allies and underlings will right back in the mix once again.
ASC is supposed to be a deterrence to corruption?
Maybe next life in the afternoon.
