Window-dressing isn't the same as democracy
If the junta really staged the coup to reform the country and strengthen democracy, it has to demonstrate the truth of those intentions with action
Ever since they launched their coup in May last year, our latest crop of junta leaders had been keen to arrange photo opportunities with foreign statesmen. Their hope was that the hugs and handshakes would demonstrate to the Thai public that the world approves of them.
But leaders from Western countries have shunned the Thai offers. Some have instead sent low-ranking officials to Bangkok, but the generals aren't interested in being pictured alongside peons.
To be fair, there has been some love shown by foreign dignitaries, but only the ones representing neighbouring states.
What Bangkok really wants is signs of acceptance from the major Western powers. After all, these were the states that complained most about the coup.
As expected, the Foreign Ministry was the agency tasked with explaining the seizure of power - or justifying it, to be precise. It was a hard sell, virtually impossible given the logic behind the situation.
In today's world we have what is called the people's mandate. In Thailand a majority of voters chose to elect rich and self-serving politicians who billed themselves as saviours of the poor.
Democracy is not perfect. It is a process rather than a destination.
But many Thais have yet to accept that democracy requires more than just ticking a box next to the name of their preferred candidate on election day.
Desperate for praise, Foreign Minister Tanasak Patimapragorn has reportedly claimed his government is enjoying greater and greater levels of approval among diplomats from overseas.
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Window-dressing isn't the same as democracy