Thai Royal family Debate cancelled
March 24, 2013 Asian Royal News, Thailand No comments
Thai public TV PBS has pulled out their most contentious TV program up to now, Tob Jode (Answering Thailand’s Issues), following open repercussion against its series on the monarchy. Opposers viewed the show “anti-royal” and a menace to national reconciliation in a land spoilt by a long time of current dispute and intense polarisation. The Internet community was a leading pressure behind this national vociferation.
The public channel admitted a large risk when it first broadcast a five-part series on “The Monarchy under the Constitution” on March 11, 2013. Pinyo Traisuriyathamma, a favourite political show host, acknowledged full well the contentious nature of entertaining a televised public debate on the monarchy, given the subjects extremely touchy nature and the ascent of lese majeste persecution in late years.
All the same he thought in this crucial present moment, Thailand can no longer stay quiet about the elephant in the room. The editorial board supports the program
Khon Thai Rak Chart Group (Thais who love their nation) stormed Thai PBS building to call for the show’ cancellation, quoting “improper and unsatisfactory debate concerning the monarchy on air.” Likewise, the Dislike Yingluck for Concentration Citizen wrote on their Facebook page, calling into question the motivation behind Tob Jode‘s monarchy series.
Under tremendous pressure, Thai PBS Editorial team pulled out of the show, dreading the safety of its employees coming after a lot of threats and bullying aimed at their employees. Tob Jode‘s Facebook page, which has subsequently been withdrawn, provided an account of their decision.