There is much talk of vote buying in relation to Thailand’s political crisis. Hard evidence is hard to come by but dark rumours persist of electoral handouts in return for votes. Well, New Mandala has some firm evidence due to the eagle eye of Nich Farrelly. Have a look at these snaps from the February 2005 election campaign. Political corruption at its worst – promises of free health care, 1200 baht per month bribes for senior citizens, slush funds for farmers, cash for local volunteers. And more! Yet another electoral outrage!

Votebuying 1 Votebuying 2

What’s that I hear??!! What party logos? Mahachon? Democrats? Surely not the anti-populist opposition parties. The photos can’t be real. Shame on you Nich! Clearly another Thaksin plot to discredit his enemies.