Seasoned Thai reporter denied visa to Kengtung talks

Seasoned Thai reporter denied visa to Kengtung talks

Visa application for a reporter from one of Thailand's prestigious English-language dailies to cover the forthcoming regional level talks in Burma's Shan State was rejected by Rangoon, said the reporter yesterday. 

Subin Khuenkaew, 51, veteran reporter for Bangkok Post, who was selected by the Thai delegation to cover the event, told S.H.A.N. yesterday, "The Burmese said everyone else's application was accepted except mine. It didn't take much time for them to turn me down." 

Subin is known for his news coverages on drugs and non-Burman movements especially Shans. He has been with Bangkok Post for 23 years. 

Subin said he was not surprised by Rangoon's rejection. "I had been thrown out of Tachilek a few years before so I'm used to it," he said laughingly. "Among the throng of reporters who were there, they just picked me up and shouted, ' You, get out! '"

Many friends expressed disappointment with Rangoon authorities for their long-standing hostility against journalists who refuse to humor them. "They could have emulated Prime Minister Taksin," one said. 

Taksin Shinawatra, though reputed as a media hater, always try to cultivate them, according to him. 

Among other journalists, on Rangoon's blacklist is Bertil Lintner, a well-known Swedish reporter for Far Eastern Economic Review.