The Abhisit Vejjajiva administration in Thailand has made a number of symbolic gestures in recent days which are being viewed as a “reconciliation bid” following the killings of protesters in Bangkok over the past several months.  However any search for substance behind the plan makes it appear more like a bid for confrontation.

The authorities have granted bail, at an exboritantly high price, to red shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan – however they have not withdrawn the absurd terrorism charges.  They appointed the well known Kanit Nannakorn to head an investigatory panel, but he is already tainted as this nomination must be consensual, squandering the independence of the effort.  As Human Rights Watch has stated, “A one-sided inquiry will undermine efforts to reach a political solution.”  Lastly, Abhisit is launching a five-point national “reform plan” for reconciliation, containing vague promises of social justice and even more media freedom.

This all seems quite appealing for international consumption, however we must look to what the regime does, not what it says.