the criminal politician class in Thailand and its complaints about unfair press coverage

snippet of a nice editorial from The Nation:

Considering the vast sums that politicians can make, luxuriating in wealth that might make a sultan blush, it might be churlish to suggest that the government is only getting the press it deserves, but let's allow it anyway. One can imagine Cabinet ministers sitting in the backs of high priced Mercs on gridlocked roads, reading The Nation and the Bangkok Post and shuddering at the indignity of it all.

It's a reality that these days emotions and feelings count for more than even a passing nod to any objectivity. In more confident times this wouldn't be a problem. After all, many of us our ignorant of our own ignorance and it doesn't disturb us a bit. But indifference is no longer a defence.

The fact is, a shade over five years have turned Thai politics into a train crash. A looted one at that. It is vulnerable to derision. That's why the pro-Thaksin radio shows doctor the truth for their supporters' consumption. Your opinion matters, as long as you agree. If you don't, the delivery is spittle flecked, venomous, scary. It's like watching two winos fight: bloody and not much skill involved.

And if the elections aren't held within a month a fellow called Noppruj Worachitwuthikil has promised to set fire to himself in front of the Election Commission's office. One can only admire his restraint. And our need for entertainment.

Thailand needs better-educated citizens, kids need better-educated parents and we all deserve a better calibre of leadership. As the old Italian proverb has it: Governments are like underwear. They need to changed often and for the same

reason.