Bangkok: Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP from the People’s Party and chairman of the House Committee on State Security, Thai Border Affairs, National Strategy, and Reform, has expressed dissatisfaction with the Thai government’s decision to invite ambassadors to observe the clash site at the Thai-Cambodian border on August 1. He believes this action is too late to provide a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
According to Thai News Agency, Rangsiman stated that the government’s timing has caused a missed opportunity to present the actual conditions at the border, including the impact on refugees and the extent of the damage. He criticized the government for its lack of legitimacy and inefficiency, urging the Minister of Foreign Affairs to act more decisively rather than claiming prior presence in New York without producing tangible outcomes.
During a committee meeting, Rangsiman emphasized the importance of addressing the Thai-Cambodian border issue from an international perspective, noting that while a ceasefire may have been achieved, the Thai populace remains anxious. He highlighted Cambodia’s proactive measures, such as sending military attaches and foreign media to the area, contrasting this with Thailand’s delayed response. Rangsiman voiced concerns that the delay would prevent the international community from witnessing the true circumstances, as residents are likely to return home by the time of the visit.
Rangsiman also pointed out the need for Thailand to maintain legitimacy on the international stage, emphasizing that distorted communication from Cambodia must be countered with factual representations. He expressed concern that Cambodia’s narrative might dominate if Thailand fails to present its case promptly, potentially leading to accusations of making excuses.
He further criticized the government’s decline in international standing since 2011, citing the imbalance in diplomatic relations between Thailand and Cambodia. Rangsiman called for accelerated foreign engagements to counteract this disadvantage and enhance Thailand’s international image.
Regarding communication delays, Rangsiman insisted on the necessity for the government to improve its communication strategy, both domestically and internationally. He lamented missed opportunities to showcase evidence of Cambodian aggression, such as landmines and civilian attacks, which could have been used to bolster Thailand’s position.
Rangsiman also touched upon the issue of call centers, suggesting that Thailand could expose Cambodia’s reliance on such operations as a primary income source. He criticized the Thai government’s silence on the assassination of a Cambodian politician in Thailand, viewing it as a missed opportunity to leverage international sentiment.
He concluded by highlighting the government’s legitimacy crisis, calling for a dissolution of parliament and new elections to restore public trust. Rangsiman also addressed concerns about potential diplomatic repercussions from US comments on the Thai-Cambodian conflict, urging better global communication to prevent harm to Thailand’s international relations. He criticized the Minister of Foreign Affairs for ineffective action in improving Thailand’s global image and understanding of the conflict.