Political unrest...

THANX for praying for Thailand and the coup that took place on September 19th. Everything was shut down for one day...I heard they will declare that day a national holiday?! weird.

Anyways, it's been over 15 years since this has happened - and it wasn't peaceful at all - several protesters were killed for showing their opposition to the situation. All i know is that it is peaceful right now - no bloodshed (praise God!) and that the majority of Thai's seem happy about it - many don't like Thaksin. However, he is very popular with local farmers, and working class. He has done much good for them, but more things wrong and corrupt during his 5 year term and it seems really good that he is out of office. But the problem is having a military junta take charge. It is worrisome because we know how military can rule if given the power - look at Burma...it's just horrible. I don't see Thailand being this way, and the acting Prime Minister is supposed to be appointing an interim PM this week.

No one seems worried here in Chiang Mai and Thai's have a "nevermind" attitude about the seriousness of it all. So i am not too worried! :) There are some military hummers and lots of soliders holding loaded guns. It's alittle freaky, but then you see people posing with them for a picture to capture the moment!? weird. It's not just tourists either - it's Thai's and the worst is children holding guns and smiling, etc. it just seems wrong.


(*Random thought - I think this guy below looks like a cross between Matt LeBlanc and Matthew Perry from 'Friends'! :) my friend sent me the picture - don't know where she got it!?)


I think in Bangkok it is probably a little more 'scary' or uneasy because there's more of a military presence and lots of tanks moving around.


It is a big deal if the military stays in leadership longterm, because Thai's have fought hard to have democracy and are afraid of losing their basic human rights. The military is also not allowing any protests or demonstrations or they will be arrested...well that definately doesn't like they are heading towards democracy?! It's scary that people can have that kind of power. I will let you know if there are any changes. Keep praying for Thailand as a country and for it's leaders. Pray for us Ex-pats too as the Visa restrictions are getting higher (i shouldn't be affected though with a work permit). blessings, jenn

blessings, jenn