According to the Thai Constitution, the King is above politics and does not take sides
Thai ambassador's letter:
Sir, Richard Lloyd Parry’s article (“Exiled leader breaks taboo to woo the royal heir”, Nov 9) contains points concerning the role of the Thai monarchy and status of Dr Thaksin Shinawatra, which I wish to clarify. First, according to the Thai Constitution, the King is above politics and does not take sides. Over the years, His Majesty has kept to his constitutional role, even while some groups have claimed royal support for their political ends.
The King learnt of the coup of September 19, 2006, only after the armed forces had already taken control. An audience was granted at the request of the armed forces to report on the situation and on action taken. The granting of the royal audience was consistent with his apolitical role and did not amount to giving his “acceptance” to such action.
Second, in accordance with Thai law, clear procedures should be followed before the King is to consider a petition for a royal pardon. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that until now there has not been a formal petition for a royal pardon filed by Dr Shinawatra himself as the person convicted, or by such concerned persons as his relatives or designated lawyer, a legal prerequisite of the royal pardon process to begin.
Last, Dr Shinawatra is neither Thailand’s current opposition leader nor a leader in exile, but a person who is choosing to stay abroad to avoid a two-year jail term resulting from a finalised corruption case.
Kitti Wasinondh
Ambassador of Thailand
Royal Thai Embassy, London SW7
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Thaksin's letter:
Sir, Suggestions that I am not faithfully loyal to the King of Thailand are simply not true. I was extremely disappointed by the damaging way in which my interview with The Times was reported, and in particular by the Times Online headline, “Ousted Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra calls for ‘shining’ new age after King’s death”.
As I made clear, it is the King who holds the key to Thailand’s happiness. In the interview I asked the King, who is above politics, to lead a reconciliation process to heal Thailand’s divisions. This would ensure a smooth transition to a new age of prosperity.
Since being ousted in a coup three years ago I have remained committed to peaceful reconciliation rather than confrontation. My democratic legitimacy means I do not need to resort to low level political meddling.
Accusations that I am against the monarchy have been used by my political enemies in Thailand many times in attempts to discredit me. They will not succeed for I am and always will be a faithful and loyal servant to the King and the royal family.
Thaksin Shinawatra
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
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