The Life of Abhisit and His Oppositional Role

[Bossza007]

Sappaya-Sapasathan
0720 ICT (GMT +7)
October 26, 2004​

Meeting place of the National Assembly of Thailand and world's largest parliament building, Sappaya-Sapasathan​

As the morning rush hour resumed in Bangkok, the Sappaya-Sapasathan prepared for another day with over three thousand public servants ready to serve the Republic. On the ninth floor, inside the "Office of the Leader of the Opposition Abhisit Vejjajiva," a man was asleep at his desk in formal attire when a woman in her mid-twenties entered. "Mark! Why are you sleeping? Didn’t you go home last night?! Your wife was worried sick, calling me to check if you were dead! You have a TV speech at noon about the new legislative decree. Wake up!" shouted Pancake, Abhisit’s secretary. Outside, some passing employees giggled at the usual chaos in their workplace.

Abhisit groaned as he surfaced from a complex, confusing dream. He half-opened his eyes, squinting against the room's light and the sun streaming through the windows. "Just let me rest a bit more…" he murmured, stretching his arms forward and causing a few documents to fall to the floor. Pancake’s irritation grew. "What are you saying, Mark? You’re a 39-year-old opposition leader! Can’t you be more responsible for your well-being and our country? We’re still in cultural and arts month. You also have to attend the musical festival at Chatuchak Park at six!" She stood with her hands on her hips, clearly exasperated.

Abhisit sighed loudly as he lifted his head from the table. “Yes, yes, I hear you, Pancake.” He yawned and glanced at the digital clock. “Seven already? I also need to meet with Mr. Anton this afternoon. What a packed schedule.” He paused, noticing Pancake’s intense glare. “What is it? I’ve gotten up.” He leaned forward, realizing some documents were missing. “Where are the copies of the parliamentary decree?” he murmured before looking back at Pancake, whose stare could have pierced through him. “Would you please explain what the problem is, Pancake?” he asked, feeling hopeless.

With a long sigh, Pancake shook her head. “Stand up and pick up the documents in front of the table. Then go home and take a shower. I’m not here to babysit you. You’re fourteen years older than me.” She grumbled before leaving the room in silence. “And I still have to do his work!” she muttered loudly as she walked away. Several public servants stopped her to check if she was okay, concerned about her workload. Pancake replied, “No, it’s okay. I still work six hours a day as usual or until Mark’s work is done. The Prime Minister just passed a landmark legislative decree. You know how it is. I don’t think he can rally enough support to overturn the decree in a referendum or through the community assemblies. Also, Jennie, open a ballot for me to kick Mark out of the office and make him get some rest at home."

After about twenty minutes, Abhisit received an email informing him that his colleagues had voted for him to leave the office, take a rest, and return at ten. He nodded reluctantly, feeling he had rested enough, but he couldn't ignore the scientific evidence that he needed proper rest after staying overnight at his office. Standing up, he gathered his phone, watch, and glasses before leaving the room. The office space was still largely empty since it wasn’t yet eight o'clock. With the new law reducing standard work hours from eight to seven and a half, most people now arrived at nine.

As Abhisit made his way out of the world's largest parliamentary building, he was greeted by cleaning staff and parliamentary police. They informed him that the media had figured out he probably didn’t leave the National Assembly last night, so he should expect a few questions from the press. Thanking them, Abhisit continued toward the main entrance, where he saw about nine journalists, most sitting in the press room. One journalist noticed him and quickly rushed over, asking, “Mr. Opposition Leader, what is your opinion about the passing of the new parliamentary decree that is described as effectively ending the existence of private property in Thailand?” He was stunned for a brief moment, the gravity of the question contrasting sharply with the serene morning at the parliament building.

“It’s concerning that property relations are being radically redefined in Thailand after centuries of proven success by free market practices. However, the National Assembly has made this decision to reflect the will of the people, and there is currently no grassroots movement signaling opposition to such a drastic change. I urge everyone to celebrate this victory for democracy in Thailand while remaining critical of any policies proposed at the national level. Thank you.” He finished and walked away, noting that the journalist did not follow him.​

 

[Bossza007]

Sappaya-Sapasathan
1150 ICT (GMT +7)
October 26, 2004​

Abhisit Vejjajiva, the Leader of the Opposition of the Republic of Thailand and one of the most influential figures in Thai politics​

Within the main press conference room of the House of Representatives, Abhisit stood among his shadow cabinet as the Thai Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) conducted another assessment of their equipment. Beside Abhisit were Trairong Suwankiri, shadow finance minister, Chaovarat Chanweerakul, shadow interior minister, and Kasit Piromya, shadow foreign minister. They were engrossed in finalizing Abhisit’s televised speech when shadow justice minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga approached with a copy of the recent parliamentary decree. “The legal and ethical concerns are undeniable. I’ve analyzed it thoroughly. I’m worried about how the international community will view this landmark legislation. Kasit?” Pirapan asked, glancing at his colleague.

“With our current political clout, I doubt we’ll face any official condemnation, maybe just private expressions of concern from major powers,” Kasit replied, checking his watch. “We have eight minutes left. Most of our allies and trading partners aren’t ideologically rigid, so it’s unlikely this decree will harm our diplomatic network unless the government takes more aggressive actions. We need to assure both Thailand’s allies and the world that free market proponents still have a voice here. But I’m not the one to judge our internal economic policy, right, Trairong?” Kasit turned to the shadow finance minister.

“It’s debatable since we’re part of this economic system too. Decentralized planning was last prominent in Yugoslavia before Thailand adopted it,” Trairong said calmly. “The decree represents one of the most radical and transformative economic restructurings attempted by any modern nation. It's both a cause for concern and celebration, depending on your perspective. We’re entering uncharted territory that even the Soviet Union, Communist China, or Yugoslavia never hoped to achieve. Despite my expertise in economics, finance minister Korn is also studying and implementing this government experiment in real-time. Fascinatingly, our economic stability and growth suggest the government is defying conventional notions of socialism’s inefficiency. If this decree leads to further success, it will challenge our free-market arguments.” Trairong sighed, and Chaovarat interjected.

“Not to mention, we’re expelling all foreign private property owners and seizing private businesses without compensation. Interior minister Wiroj supports these hostile takeovers, though his economic stance seems more moderate than the Prime Minister’s.” Chaovarat paused as the broadcasting crew prepared. “Anyway, Abhisit, we’re at a point of no return. The People’s Front coalition, despite being a mix from center-left to far-left, is surprisingly unified. With Prime Minister Thaksin unable to run for another term, we need to reconsider our party platform for our party’s survival.” As Chaovarat finished, a crew member asked Abhisit to get into position as the broadcast was about to start.

Abhisit nodded and embraced his shadow cabinet before walking onto the platform toward the broadcasting camera. The backdrop highlighted the authority and significance of the legislature, underscoring its crucial role in Thailand's separation of powers. With a signal from the broadcasting director, Abhisit's image appeared on Thai PBS channels across the nation.

"Greetings, my fellow Thais," Abhisit began, addressing the approximately 35 million viewers tuned in. "It is an honor to speak to the free and just people of our nation once more, especially after the landmark legislative decree that has clearly divided the coalition government and opposition parties. This decree emerged from our robust democratic institutions, which allow for the unfettered expression of political opinions, whether supportive or oppositional. It is a victory for our democracy, a triumph of post-revolution Thailand, showing that the state listens to the people's desire for change." He paused thoughtfully.

"However, as the leader of the opposition, I cannot ignore the potential for mass disruption to our societal fabric and economic stability caused by this legislative decree. As the government continues to push for socialist goals, we must be wary of potential failures, as shown by various historical examples of failed socialist experiments. For instance, in the late 1920s and early 1930s, the Soviet Union under Stalin embarked on a rapid and often brutal campaign to collectivize agriculture, leading to widespread resistance from peasants. During Josip Broz Tito’s rule in Yugoslavia, the country developed a unique form of socialism that combined central planning with market mechanisms. While this initially led to higher productivity and economic growth compared to other socialist states, it also caused disparities between different regions within Yugoslavia." Abhisit paused briefly.

“As our country shifts further to the left on the political spectrum, the role of a strong opposition within our current socialist framework is crucial for maintaining a healthy democracy. The Democrat Party and other opposition groups agree that, despite the current mechanisms empowering us, we need a constitutional amendment to redefine our role. Thailand cannot ignore the negative image of socialist states often linked with autocracy and authoritarianism. Therefore, the opposition will propose a constitutional amendment to the National Assembly to expand our role as a guarantor of democratic socialism’s principles.” Abhisit glanced at the camera and saw his secretary, Pancake, nodding in approval.

“I understand that such a drastic and unprecedented legislative decree raises concerns internationally. However, as the leader of the opposition, I am confident that the Republic Government will uphold its international obligations and partnerships. This includes our mutual defense agreements with the French Empire, the Kingdom of Poland, and the Kingdom of Sweden, as well as our comprehensive trade arrangements with Portugal and Spain. Thailand remains committed to ensuring the independence of the Asian continent, free from external interference. No foreign power should meddle in our regional affairs.” Abhisit spoke with conviction, and his shadow foreign minister nodded in agreement.

“It’s clear that the coalition government aims to balance individual freedom with collective well-being in their vision for our society. As a representative of liberal values within Thailand, I believe the opposition parties are the best advisors for this issue. We must ensure that small businesses, those with fewer than 50 employees, are respected not merely as profit-driven entities of the past but as personal ventures driven by individual passion. Our progress in collective and communal spirit must not overshadow the need to strengthen legal protections for our citizens.” Abhisit paused, adjusting his terminology to align with Thai law’s distinction between personal and private businesses.

“Now that I’ve taken enough of your valuable time, I want to stress the importance of maintaining national unity and engaging in open dialogue about Thailand’s future. While we may not all agree on the nation’s trajectory, we must remember that just seven years ago, we fought together to overthrow the monarchy and secure freedom for our people. As one of those who joined your cause during the revolution, I remember the phase, ‘Morning will come, victory is close.’ Thank you.” As Abhisit concluded and the broadcast ended, the room burst into applause.​

 

[Bossza007]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
1150 ICT (GMT +7)
December 15, 2005​

Abhisit Vejjajiva during his preparation for the speech​

Abhisit was welcomed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs following his selection as this year’s foreign affairs speaker during a public deliberation period. For much of 2005, he had remained out of international headlines, dedicating himself to behind-the-scenes efforts that strengthened nationwide project coordination in Thailand. Unlike representatives elected by a specific district, Abhisit, as a party-list member, focused on broad policy discussions and intra-state developments. His role spared him the need to mediate between provincial and national governments, allowing him to concentrate entirely on refining strategies that could impact the nation’s trajectory.

After Foreign Minister Surakiart introduced him as the Leader of the Opposition, Abhisit appeared on the cameras and in front of members of the Ministry’s public servants. He began with an approachable tone leaning toward formality.

“Comrades and friends,

Thank you for this opportunity to highlight our nation’s achievements on the international stage over the past year and to share our collective vision for the year ahead. I understand many of you are taking time out of your day—perhaps even your lunch break—to listen, and I deeply appreciate your attention. In 2005, Thailand reaffirmed its commitment to the three pillars of foreign policy established by our founding revolutionaries. At the heart of this commitment lies our dedication to the principles of human rights, humanism, and humanitarianism—the "3Hs" that guide our actions and define our global identity. Thailand has long been recognized as a steadfast advocate for freedom and human dignity. We uphold and champion the principle of “responsibility to protect,” ensuring that we stand in solidarity with vulnerable communities around the world. Through decisive, principled action, we have cemented our reputation as a dependable humanitarian ally, providing support and hope to nations facing adversity. Our unwavering dedication to these ideals continues to position Thailand as a beacon of compassion and a leader in the global pursuit of justice and dignity for all.

Under the second pillar of our foreign policy, the "3Ds" framework—Democracy, Due Process, and Development—Thailand has been actively implementing this vision through the Thailand Development Assistance Program. We remain steadfast in our belief that humanity flourishes in a world built on justice, fairness, and democracy—a world where true freedom can be realized. Thailand consistently ranks above the nations with the most robust democratic institutions, surpassing many systems that claim to represent the will of the people. We are unwavering in our call for fair and transparent legal processes, particularly for political prisoners and detained activists around the globe. The bravery and moral fortitude of these individuals—freedom fighters who stand against oppression—deserve recognition, and we will not let their sacrifices be forgotten. Moreover, Thailand continues to extend financial aid and resources to underdeveloped and developing nations. Through the 3Ds framework, our programs aim to establish enduring democratic institutions that foster inclusive and sustainable development. We are committed to building a world where democracy serves as the foundation for progress and prosperity for all.

Our third pillar, JLOVE—Justice, Liberty, Opportunity, Vision, and Equality—embodies Thailand’s unwavering commitment to building a fairer, more balanced world. We envision a global community founded on the principles of popular sovereignty, where every nation stands equal in status and dignity. We aspire to a world where justice is delivered without bias, where every individual has the opportunity to live authentically and pursue their dreams free from material constraints. This vision of a just and equitable world is rooted in the revolutionary spirit that has shaped Thailand’s identity and purpose as a nation. Thailand sees itself as a leader in the global movement toward a better future—a future where all people are liberated from want, exploitation, and fear. Together, we strive to create a world where the principles of JLOVE are not ideals to aspire to but realities that define our collective humanity.

Now, let us turn our attention to Thailand’s Strategic Alliance Network (SAN) and the trajectory we envision for the coming year. The SAN is rooted in the principles of mutual respect, shared responsibilities, and a collective commitment to global progress. It reflects our dedication to fostering partnerships that transcend ideological differences in pursuit of the greater good. Thailand takes pride in its role as a leading global power and a beacon of socialist democracy. We are determined to use this position to build bridges, nurture collaboration, and inspire meaningful change on the international stage. Central to this effort is our enduring partnership with our most significant ally, the Empire of France. Guided by the principles enshrined in the 2003 Harmonious Accord, Thailand and France will continue to strengthen our alliance across multiple dimensions. Together, we will pursue initiatives in sustainable economic development, advance joint research and development projects in cutting-edge technologies, and expand cultural exchange programs that celebrate and share the richness of our respective heritages. Furthermore, we are committed to strategic planning that anticipates global challenges and opportunities, while ensuring the freedom of movement for our citizens through our open-border policy.

For Sweden, we’ll continue to cooperate in joint initiatives in international aid and development and engage in regular dialogue and knowledge sharing about different models of democratic governance and citizen participation. Additionally, Thailand will strengthen its commitment to collaborative research and development in sustainable technologies and social innovation, as well as continued strategic discussions on contemporary security interests. We also plan to deepen and expand the language the Treaty of Amity between Thailand and the Gandhi Empire. Most importantly, Thailand will continue to provide cutting-edge industrial automation solutions for Indian’s growing manufacturing sector while streamlining the visa-on-arrival processes. Additionally, we are looking for opportunities to explore the military ties between Thailand and India, so that it will transcend the current domain in naval partnership to include comprehensive strategic partnership in all branches of our armed forces.

We would be remiss not to highlight the deep and enduring bond we share with our socialist comrades in the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The year 2005 marks a pivotal moment in our collective journey toward global socialism. With the re-establishment of the Socialist International, Thailand and Vietnam have entered into historic political and economic unions that have integrated our military commands and enabled seamless technology transfers. Together, we are united by an unwavering commitment to international solidarity, the empowerment of workers, and the advancement of their rights on a global scale. Thailand and Vietnam now stand as leaders at the forefront of the global socialist movement—a movement firmly rooted in the principles of justice, democracy, equity, and freedom for all. While Vietnam has long been governed by a Marxist-Leninist system dedicated to state socialism, we must also celebrate their remarkable steps toward inclusivity. The recent unbanning of the Democratic Party of Vietnam, allowing it to operate alongside the Communist Party of Vietnam within the National Assembly, is a groundbreaking development. This progressive move reflects a shift toward broader representation and a distribution of power that aligns with the ideals of Trotskyism. Thailand views this as a monumental step toward empowering the proletariat and strengthening the foundations of socialism in our region and beyond.

Now, let us turn our attention to the Friends of Thailand (FOTH), a global initiative under the coordination of our Foreign Ministry. After extensive democratic deliberation across Thailand’s provincial assemblies, we have reached a pivotal moment. The people have given us a clear mandate to support the establishment and smooth operation of this ambitious and visionary network. The FOTH is a global alliance of individuals united by an unshakable belief in the Socialist Republic of Thailand as a symbol of genuine freedom, justice, equity, and democracy. Our government is committed to providing the necessary resources to ensure its effectiveness. The FOTH’s mission is profound: to empower workers worldwide by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to organize their workplaces and demand better, more humane working conditions.

The response to this initiative has been overwhelming. FOTH has reported that it received a surge of membership applications from nations grappling with the consequences of unchecked capitalism and from those where state socialism has already taken root. Thailand’s role in this effort is clear. By fostering international solidarity, we aim to support workers as they organize into a unified, global trade union federation. Once this foundation is firmly established, it will enable them to take collective action—culminating in general strikes to peacefully transform their societies for the better. However, It is important to emphasize that the government of Thailand does not control the operations of the FOTH. This network is an independent force, driven by the collective will of the international proletariat. Regardless, our government remains committed to its mandate: to provide occasional resources and strategic support to the FOTH in collaboration with various independent organizations. Together, we are paving the way for a future defined by justice, solidarity, and the power of the people.

Thailand remains committed to fostering constructive relations with global powers while upholding its principles and advocating for a fairer world order. With regard to the United Kingdom, we will continue to pursue a policy of reconciliation and cooperation. Both nations share a deep commitment to democratic values, and we believe that principled collaboration can yield meaningful benefits for our peoples. The normalization of relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom is poised to reach new milestones in the coming year, with preparations underway for a second high-level dialogue that promises to strengthen our shared commitment to democratic progress. As for the United States, Thailand remains resolute in holding this imperialist and exploitative power accountable to the international community and the global proletariat. We reaffirm our vision of a balanced global order where every nation stands equal in dignity and status—an ideal fundamentally opposed by the United States, which continues to prioritize its waning dominance. True justice, equity, freedom, and democracy can only be achieved through the dismantling of exploitative capitalist systems. Thailand stands firm in its dedication to this vision, working toward a future where all nations thrive on the principles of solidarity, fairness, and mutual respect.

As we look to the future, let us draw strength from our shared vision and unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the pursuit of a brighter tomorrow. Thailand stands as a beacon of hope, a testament to what can be achieved when the values of solidarity, democracy, and humanity guide our path. Together with our allies, we will continue to dismantle the structures of oppression, uplift the voices of the silenced, and champion the causes of those who have been left behind. In every action we take and every partnership we forge, let us remain steadfast in our purpose: to build a world where freedom is not a privilege but a birthright, and where no one is left to struggle alone in the shadows of injustice.

In the spirit of revolution and the enduring power of the people, we reaffirm our dedication to the global proletariat, the empowerment of the working class, and the unyielding pursuit of a just and equitable world. The road ahead may be challenging, but together, united by our shared ideals, we will overcome every obstacle and realize the dreams of generations past, present, and future.

Let us rise as one, hand in hand, toward a horizon of hope, prosperity, and liberation. Long live the people’s revolution!”​