The Thaksinization of Thailand

"For decades, Thailand was economically dynamic, yet politically shambolic. 1997 changed all that: the Asian economic crisis was closely followed by the promulgation of a new liberal constitution in Thailand, leading many observers to herald a process of rapid reform and renewal. Instead, the financial crisis and the 1997 constitution paved the way for the political rise of Thaksin Shinawatra, a fabulously wealthy telecommunications magnate often compared with Italian premier Silvio Berlusconi." "This book - by two leading scholars in the field - examines Thaksin's background, his business activities, the emergence of Thai Rak Thai, his relationship with the military, Thaksin's use of rhetoric through media such as radio, his wider political economy networks, and what this all means for the future." "The result is essential reading for students, academics, journalists, diplomats, investors - and anyone else who needs to understand what Thaksin Shinawatra is all about."--BOOK JACKET.