Unfriend: Thai junta leader receives social media pummelling
BANGKOK: An onslaught of negative feedback flooded the official Facebook page of Thailand’s premier Prayut Chan-o-cha a day after it was launched over the weekend, backfiring on the junta leader’s attempts to get “suggestions” on the social media platform.
As Thailand counts down to muchanticipated elections following four years of military rule, former general Prayut has started portraying a softer side to the public.
The gruff former general has incited intense speculation over his political aspirations through his frequent public appearances and photo opportunities — despite insisting he has no interest in standing in the election next year.
On Sunday, the premier’s man-ofthe-people persona was displayed on his newly launched Facebook page in a post asking for “suggestions” from his followers on his government’s policies.
The reaction was swift, garnering more than 9,000 comments in less than 24 hours, with the majority of them negative.
“You are a burden for this country. You are a deadweight of the country,” wrote commenter Kraisorn Chuakram. “If you don’t resign, let’s make the election free and fair.” Many also pointed out the hypocrisy of launching an online “campaign” while parties are still under a partial political ban, which bars them from public politicking or holding rallies.
Sweeping restrictions on political parties and campaigns were imposed after the military ousted Yingluck Shinawatra’s government in a coup four years ago, ushering in the most draconian Thai government in a generation.
“Banning others from doing campaign via social media but opening a Facebook account for himself?” said Suvipan Jampa in a comment that garnered 1,300 reactions.
“He is thick-skinned.” — A way to communicate — Some were more direct in their condemnation.
“I will vote for Pheu Thai in the next general election,” said Facebook user Sichai Patthana.