Good morning,

More prominent figures have come out in opposition to the junta’s new constitution (http://www.bangkokpost.com/topstories/topstories.php?id=120899) pointing out that it will lead to more coups and enhanced power for the military. Workshy quisling Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the shabby Democrat party, is one of the few who have come out in favour of the constitution, largely because he sees himself as the next prime minister without policies or ideology. He is not fit to hold public office.

There are mixed messages concerning the possibility of vote-buying and fraud (http://www.bangkokpost.com/News/16Aug2007_news02.php). Government sources and junta-friendly media are still floating stories about vote-buying by those opposing the charter in Sunday’s referendum (http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2007/08/16/headlines/headlines_30045211.php). The post office seems to be colluding with junta cronies to seize letters and parcels containing anti-junta and anti-constitution materials. Free speech?

A new wave of violence convulses the south, with a wave of arson attacks in Pattani (http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30045085) and a Muslim street vendor shot dead in Narathiwat (http://www.nationmultimedia.com/breakingnews/read.php?newsid=30044825). Two suspected insurgents have been seized, while a police officer has been shot in the leg (http://etna.mcot.net/query.php?nid=31070).

Thailand lost 2-1 to Ukraine in the University Games yesterday after conceding a last-minute goal (http://www.bangkokpost.com/Sports/16Aug2007_sport33.php). The team will now go on to play Canada for the bronze medal game – I saw the Canadian team bus outside Central Latprao on Tuesday lunchtime and the athletes were shopping inside, apparently. I mix with the stars.

Today’s article at Suite 101 is – well, the Greater Mekong Infrastructure one is still flagged as today – they are a little behind us in America.

Back tomorrow.