Because Abhisit speaks perfect English, has an engaging manner and is backed by the more affluent and educated parts of Thai society, he generally gets a pretty good press overseas.
Abhisit is handsome, articulate and well-mannered, he lacks the hearty touch of successful Thai politicians.
Abhisit is indeed a handsome boy, but he and his administration have to prove quickly they are more than a bunch of populist talkers. Otherwise, Thais will soon put them out of a job and out of sight in the next election.
A Thai friend of mine once said that I liked Abhisit Vejjajiva more than Thaksin Shinawatra only because he's cute. In fact, we both expect a lot more than just a pretty face. On Friday morning, Mr Abhisit was on CNN. This handsome man tried hard to fix Thailand's image problem, whether or not he's happy with the coup or the closure of the airports or the like. Unfortunately, this was the weakest speech I've ever heard from him. He did not persuade me to put back the investment I withdrew from Thailand in August.
Abhisit is indeed a handsome boy, but he and his administration have to prove quickly they are more than a bunch of populist talkers. Otherwise, Thais will soon put them out of a job and out of sight in the next election.