Luangta Maha Bua asks Thaksin to resign

Udon Thani - Respected monk Luangta Maha Bua Yannasampanno Tuesday became the latest high-profile supporter to turn his back on the prime minister.

The abbot of Wat Pa Ban Tat, in Udon Thani's Muang district, said it was time for Thaksin to abandon the "rotten system he is presiding over". He described the government as "wicked, corrupt, power-hungry and greedy".

"Thaksin should not stay on. It's time for him to resign and admit his fault," Luangta Maha Bua said.

The monk said he regretted endorsing Thaksin's candidacy. "I looked at his financial status and I believed he was honest. I admit that my judgement about this man was wrong," the abbot said.

The sermon lasted about 38 minutes and the monk described it as the "most vehement since the temple was set up".

"It has to be heated because Thailand is drowning. Tell him to resign. You can quote me," he said.

hmm.. so, Luang Ta Mah Bua weighs in... But does he offer an alternative or merely a condemnation.. An so who shall take Taksin's place?? Shall it be Mr. Sondhi, another business tycoon of the same ilk, shall it be Mr. Sanoh Tiehthong another political family dinosaur?? or shall it be that dimunitive Mr. Banhard Silap-cha jumping up from the past?? Bottom line, who's the better choice?? The academics spout out, "down with Taksin"..! As the Bangkok Post labels them, the "Blue Blood Jet Set" want Taksin out!!" So who will watch out for the little guy??? Yes, the Academics certainly have a point on Mr. T's ethics, but have they provided even the hint of a viable alternative? As for the "Blue Bloods" I wouldn't give a farthing for their opinons, they are just as caught up in money politics as the old Political families ever were....