One of the most shambolic episodes of this sleazy, repressive Abhisit regime has been the dreadful handling of the 3G auction: 3G is the third generation of telecommunication services which enable people to obtain internet and broadband services on their mobile phones, thereby greatly enhancing the functionality of those devices. It also has the benefit of spreading coverage of wireless networks beyond just the central areas of Bangkok (guess who benefits?) to areas where local businesses and individuals can benefit. Tourists of course will also expect to continue with these services as and when they come here – I remember the last time I went to Japan, a couple of years ago, that only 3G was supported and my humble telephone (actually quite advanced, I thought, not just a digital watch) would not work.
So, given the opportunity to auction off the wavelength, one might imagine the government would leap at the opportunity to improve the infrastructure, catch up with competitors and generate some much earned income.
Is that what has happened?
Well, of course, no. Instead, ICT people have run around saying that the auction must be postponed because foreign firms will have an advantage – and they are likely to use that advantage to steal national secrets. Really. I am not making this up – this is just Sarah Palin-level discourse.
Well, now the spineless one has read out some bland platitudes, no doubt very nicely and in his usual style (those who have seen him speak in person will know he gives the very strong impression that he has precious little idea or interest in what he has been saying.
Nationalism, xenophobia, incompetence, inability or refusal to deal with complexity. Welcome to the Land of Smiles.
