More flak over role for Somkid

The Nation, February 18, 2007

The appointment of Thaksin Shinawatra's erstwhile right-hand man as an economic envoy has sparked criticism from observers who claim the former regime's populist brand of capitalism is incompatible with the junta's belief in sustainability.

National Legislative Assembly member Akapol Sorasuchart will tomorrow file a motion demanding an explanation of last week's appointment of former deputy prime minister Somkid Jatusripitak as economic envoy.

"Somkid was the architect of populist policies and political marketing, and I doubt whether he is qualified to become a spokesman for sufficiency-economy theory," Akapol said.

He voiced concern about Somkid's planned trips to Japan and China as ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra is in exile in Beijing.

"I fear that dispatching a top Thaksin aide could cause even greater confusion for Chinese investors," he said, adding that Somkid's trip might benefit Thaksin rather than boost investor confidence.

If the House debates his motion, Akapol said, he will urge Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont to review the appointment.


Democrat Party deputy leader Alongkorn Pollabutr also said Somkid was the wrong man for the job. "Somkid's reputation is at complete odds with sufficiency-economy thinking," he said.

Foreign Minister Nitya Pibulsonggram defended the government's decision.

"As a man with vast experience, Somkid should make a positive contribution as a non-partisan volunteer," Nitya said.

He said he anticipated no confusion arising from Somkid's planned overseas trip.

Somkid is due to explain the new economic thinking and has no duties overlapping with those assigned to the Foreign Ministry or the economic team under Deputy Prime Minister MR Pridiyathorn Devakula, he said.